Science and Spiritual Practices

by Rupert Sheldrake

The effects of spiritual practices are now being investigated scientifically as never before, and many studies have shown that religious and spiritual practices generally make people happier and healthier. Rupert illustrates how science helps validate seven particular practices which underpin all major world religions.

Meditation
Gratitude
Connecting with nature
Relating to plants
Rituals
Singing and chanting
Pilgrimage and holy places.

Rupert summarizes the latest scientific research on what happens when we take part in these practices, and suggests ways that readers can explore these fields for themselves. For those who are religious, Science and Spiritual Practices will illuminate the evolutionary origins of their own traditions and give a new appreciation of their power. For the non-religious, this book will show how the core practices of spirituality are accessible to all, without the need to subscribe to a religious belief system.

This is a book for anyone who suspects that in the drive towards radical secularism, something valuable has been left behind.

Reviews

"A simultaneously grounded and inspiring approach to appreciating the benefits of both science and religion." — Kirkus Review

Featured in 100 Books We Love — Spirituality & Health

Rupert Sheldrake is not only a consummate scientist, but is a person alive to the spirit. I am personally grateful for the writing and publication of Science and Spiritual Practices, and not only endorse it wholeheartedly, but look forward to the support and depth it will bring to my own life. — Marc Andrus, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of California

All these practices can deepen the meaning of our lives and open our minds to a universe flooded with consciousness. — Revd Adam Ford, Church Times

Urgent, vital, gently devastating, and an exhilarating read. Buy it, read it, and give it to all your friends and all acolytes of scientism. Sheldrake will help us stay alive and be more alive. We all need his help. — Charles Foster, Green Templeton College, Oxford, author Being a Beast

I have personally adopted many of the practices Rupert describes in his book and experienced more love, joy, empathy, gratitude, and equanimity as a result. We are all indebted to Rupert, who has tirelessly brought us deep insights from both science and spirituality. — Deepak Chopra

As Sheldrake's work is controversial among scientists, it's a testimony to his courage and integrity that he continues to harness the horses of both science and spirituality to pull the chariot, and he drives his vehicle well. — Cherry Gilchrist, Quest PDF