Eric Chaline Books

Explains the excercises of tai chi with photographs illustrating each step.

Chosen for their powerful symbolism, the illustrations in this book range from the myths and legends of the ancient world to the icons used in modern culture and science. You will discover the fascinating origins and meanings of over 500 signs and symbols, from the secrets of the Maya calendar to demon- summoning seals and secretive symbols of the hermetic orders. Divided into seven thematic sections – astrology; the natural world; sacred writings; alchemy, numerology and sacred geometry; magic; demonology; and the western esoteric tradition – this decoding guide is the ultimate resource for unlocking the secret language of signs and symbols for the modern occultist.

Charting the relationship between humans and animals and how certain species have been instrumental in the development of our understanding of the evolution of the natural world, this title explores the role animals have played in our culture and history.

Zen seems to revel in mystification, but does the hype live up to close scrutiny? This introduction to Zen explains the principles, practices and history of Zen and points the way to heightened consciousness and spiritual fulfilment. It traces the history of Zen through India, China, Korea and finally its home in Japan through the charismatic, historical characters that developed its traditions. Seeking to explore the Zen principles of emptiness, illusion and Buddha nature, the book takes readers through how they can experience a transcendental state of enlightenment by following the practices of zazen and shikantaza. It instructs readers in incorporating Zen into their lives, through painting, poetry, ikebana and the ritual of the tea ceremony, and takes the reader on a path to innner peace.

Explore a diverse array of deities from various cultures worldwide, featuring both well-known and obscure figures. The book is organized by region and richly illustrated, showcasing gods and goddesses such as Tiamat, the ancient Mesopotamian mother goddess, and Olorun, the Yoruba "Owner of the Heavens." This comprehensive guide invites readers to delve into the fascinating mythology and spiritual beliefs of different civilizations.

Eric Chaline offers the first proper consideration of the gym's complex, layered history and the influence it has had on the development of Western individualism, society, education, and politics.

Combining the format of a guidebook with the content of a history, this book will show readers what it would have been like in Attica in the year 415 BCE, listing everything from how to buy a slave to where to get a room for the night.

Getting and staying fit is a challenge for everyone. How do you find the right workout that you can maintain and that gives you the best bang for your buck and your time? Martial arts might be the answer. Inside, find out how learning a martial art can provide you with flexibility, strength, weight loss, and overall cardiovascular health. Along with the physical benefits, the martial arts each have a mental approach than can improve your focus and confidence and relieve stress. Instead of heading to the gym, why not try the dojo?

Martial arts provide a great workout for anyone, but for women, they present some special and positive advantages. Inside this book, find out how martial arts training can improve your fitness, help with your personal confidence, and train you mentally to face the challenges of life. Having a positive self-image and feeling physically confident can translate into many phases of your life. The focus and all-around fitness that martial arts can bring might be your ticket to a high-flying leap forward in your life.