Gabor Mate (born January 6, 1944, is a world-renowned Hungarian-Canadian physician, writer, and public speaker. He is best known for his work in the field of addiction and mental health.
In his work, Mate emphasizes the importance of understanding the root causes of addiction and mental illness, rather than simply treating the symptoms.
He has also been a strong advocate for the use of plant medicine, such as ayahuasca, in the treatment of these conditions.
In this article, Mate recommends some books that he believes are essential reading for anyone interested in these topics.
Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra
Don Quixote is a novel written by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra. It was first published in 1605 and is considered one of the most influential works of literature.
The novel tells the story of Don Quixote, a Spanish gentleman who sets out on a quest to become a knight errant. Along the way, he encounters many challenges and has many adventures.
Don Quixote is an important work of literature because it is one of the first novels ever written. It is also significant because it explores themes such as chivalry and idealism.
The Dhammapada by Eknath Easwaran
The Dhammapada is a classic Buddhist scripture, and Easwaran’s translation is one of the most popular. In this book, Easwaran brings the wisdom of the Dhammapada to life for modern readers.
Each chapter of The Dhammapada contains a selection of verses from the scripture, along with Easwaran’s commentary. The verses are grouped together under various themes.
Easwaran’s commentary is clear and concise, making The Dhammapada an accessible introduction to this important Buddhist text. Whether you’re new to Buddhism or you’ve been studying it for years, you’ll find something of value in this book.
The Drama of the Gifted Child by Alice Miller
Alice Miller’s book The Drama of the Gifted Child is a searing indictment of the way we parent our children.
Miller argues that we often inadvertently cause them great harm by trying to mold them into our own image instead of letting them be themselves.
As a result, our children can end up feeling deeply unloved and unworthy. Miller’s book is full of case studies and stories that will leave you questioning your own parenting style.
The Scourge of the Swastika by Langley Russell
Langley Russell’s book “The Scourge of the Swastika” is a harrowing account of the rise of Nazi Germany and the atrocities committed during the Holocaust.
Russell chronicles the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party, their hateful rhetoric, and ultimately, their horrific actions.
Russell’s book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the history of Nazi Germany and the Holocaust. It is a harrowing tale that will leave you both horrified and informed.
Waking the Tiger by Peter A. Levine
In his book, Waking the Tiger, Peter A. Levine explores the phenomenon of trauma and its impact on the body and mind.
He shares his own personal story of surviving a traumatic event and how he used his own experience to develop a groundbreaking approach to healing trauma called Somatic Experiencing.
Through years of research and clinical work, Levine has found that trauma is not only a psychological issue but also a physical one. The body stores memories of traumatic events in the form of tension and stress, which can lead to a host of physical and mental health problems.
Levine’s Somatic Experiencing approach helps people to release this tension and stress from the body, allowing them to heal from their trauma. This unique approach has helped countless people around the world find relief from their suffering and live fuller, more joyful lives.
What Doesn’t Kill Us by Scott Carney
In “What Doesn’t Kill Us,” Scott Carney investigates the science behind a new fitness craze that is sweeping the globe.
Carney dives deep into the history and research of Wim Hof, a Dutchman who claims to have mastered the ability to control his body’s autonomic functions through a series of breathing and cold exposure techniques.
What Carney uncover is a fascinating story of human potential and endurance that has implications for everyone from elite athletes to weekend warriors.
Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne
Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne is a much-loved classic children’s book. The book features the lovable bear, Winnie-the-Pooh, and his friends as they go on adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood. The book has been enjoyed by children for generations and is considered a timeless classic.
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