I first became interested in Bruce Lipton when I saw one of his broadcasts on Conscious TV. I found his lectures on Biology and Belief, and the power we have to affect our genes and DNA, to be absolutely fascinating. The idea that we can “switch off” a gene, or the predispostion to a disease fits with everything I know about the mind-body connection, and everything I believe to be true about the importance of mind over matter.

Centuries ago, yogis discovered that through the use of meditation and yoga practices, they were able to address physical, mental and spiritual imbalances that were arising in themselves. Many yogis maintained perfect health on all levels. The sacred knowledge of yoga has been passed down from guru to disciple for centuries and is growing rapidly in popularity in western society as people turn to yoga for answers to their medical and mental concerns. Ancient yogic techniques can be used in a fresh approach to living, as they address many of the problems that we all face in our daily lives.

Linda Johnsen, M.S., discusses her newest book, Lost Masters: Rediscovering the Mysticism of the Ancient Greek Philosophers. She is the award-winning author of nine books on ancient and modern spirituality, including Daughters of the Goddess: The Women Saints of India, The Living Goddess, and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Hinduism. Hundreds of her articles have appeared in Yoga International, Yoga Plus, Yoga Journal, and other magazines.

When the Impossible Happens is a fascinating, extraordinary book filled with eye-opening accounts of alternative states of consciousness. Stan Grof, one of the foremost explorers and authorities on consciousness, has written a memoir that is warm, personal and detailed. His insights into these non-ordinary realities and the potential they hold for transformation are incredible — and the stories are captivating.

Robert W. Coleman Elementary School in Baltimore has a new routine: instead of using more traditional methods disciplining students, it’s assigning them meditation. It’s part of a growing trend among educators, advocates for prison reform, and staff at crisis centers teaching kids mindfulness and meditation techniques. The Maryland school joins the a list that includes Minnesota, California, New York, other states and the United Kingdom.

A sense of belonging. They belong to this earth and they know it. They came to reign supreme, and they do so with an uncompromising sense of clarity. What if you could be the king or queen of your own life and rule with absolute authority? Wouldn’t you, as the alpha lion or lioness, bring a sense of being alpha — calm, confident, and in charge — not only to yourself but to the world around you? Excerpt from the book Whispers from the Wild: Listening to Voices from the Animal Kingdom.