Revelations of the psychological and neurological reasons why ancient wisdom really works - and how to use it. We are constantly reminded how prevalent mental health problems of anxiety and depression are in today's world. And yet, even when below levels requiring treatment, almost all of us experience a lower level of mental suffering daily, in the form of worries, insecurities and irritations. We assume this is just part of life ... but it doesn't have to be this way. Over the past few decades, ongoing advances in our understanding of how the mind works point increasingly towards the realization that together, several of the ancient wisdom traditions had it right all along – and yet, we continue to move increasingly further from that wisdom. And as we do so, the mental health of our species as a whole continues to decline. It is time to stop the slide. The aim of this book is to explore the assertion that, wherever you sit on the question of spirituality and religion, there are sound, non-mysterious psychological and neurological reasons why a working knowledge of the wisdom contained in ancient philosophical and sacred religious texts - and how to apply it - can improve your mental resilience, serenity and contentment. This is not a book about saving your soul. It is about saving your sanity. The book is divided into two parts. Part One explores issues of clinical anxiety and depression, and provides an overview of typical treatments; noting in particular where the psychology profession has adopted principles from ancient wisdom – and offers some basic means whereby people can begin to help themselves, whether requiring professional treatment or not. But Part One also examines some important aspects of how the mind functions in some very unexpected ways; many of which, if we are not wise to them, are almost guaranteed to cause mental suffering. Part Two expands on a range of ways we can apply ancient wisdom borrowed from several religions and philosophies to shift our outlook and habits of thinking and so significantly reduce our mental suffering – thus finding strength, serenity, and contentment. Some of this involves developing an acute nose for bull – yes, that of others, but even more importantly, our own. It is also about developing some discipline and control over our internal world, which is, in truth, possible with a little effort. But finally, it also means developing a better understanding of what is, and is not, likely to lead to peace and contentment. Self-improvement, boosting self-image, or getting more of what you want will not do this … robust mental health lies in a very different direction. ★★★★ " This book is an excellent read. Elliott-White does a great job taking modern psychology and ancient philosophy and breaking it down into simple-to-understand nuggets that will enhance your life. He uses a conversational tone and relatable experiences to explain why the principles work, but he goes a step further and breaks down exactly how you can put them into practice." -- Alicia Doyle - Alicia's Word Haven (Canada) ★★★★★ " I loved this book and couldn't put it down . I liked the step-by-step journey through the stages we need to take to hopefully bring peace and enlightenment. A good mix of humour and 'real' life examples to shine a spotlight on how we tend towards the negative." -- Lorraine Eivers - Amazon Reader (UK) ★★★★ " A fascinating blend of neuroscience and ancient wisdom. From the depths of modern psychiatry to contemplative traditions that span millennia, this book offers insight into training our brains for greater mental calmness and composure - all to reduce the likelihood of developing depressive or anxiety disorders. An interesting exploration of what it takes to be at peace in today's world!" -- Robin Ginther-Venneri - Robin's Review (USA) ★★★★ " Interesting read! This book gives a lot of information about how to train the brain to help reduce the possibility of having a mental illness. Equanimity is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews." -- Amy Shannon - Amy's Bookshelf Reviews (USA)