I don’t read much anymore. Or watch movies. Or take long walks under waxy moons. But I’m ok (far better than ok) with this, because of what I do have: a wife and two kids I love and adore, a passion for my work, and a determination to know myself and my place in this universe as deeply and intimately as is possible.

So the little time I do have for reading books, is reserved for those that connect me more deeply with my family, my work, my fullest potentiality.

That’s why I consider Integral Life Practice; A 21st-Century Blueprint for Physical Health, Emotional Balance, Mental Clarity, and Spiritual Awakening to be the most inspiring – and transformative – book on my shelf.

In the authors’ words:

Over the last thirty-five years, Ken Wilber has developed an Integral “theory of everything” that makes sense of how all the world’s knowledge systems – East and West; ancient, modern, and postmodern – fit together and can elevate our awareness. Drawing on science, psychology, human development, spirituality, religion, and dozens of other fields, Integral Theory is a revolutionary framework for understanding ourselves and the world we live in.

What makes this book so special, is how the authors translate invaluable theory into practice. As the authors state, “Now there is a way to not just think Integrally, but to embody an Integral worldview in your everyday life.” It’s my ultimate go-to handbook. I read a passage, digest it, and put it into action. I embody it. I cull from a wealth of options, and custom-build a practice that works for me. And from my practice, I directly experience a greater freedom, and a greater fullness.

Big gratitude for to the four authors who collaborated on this project.

(Different mini-sketch created for each day/post. Click for larger view.)

What is this? Read more about the Best of 2009.