The Tao of Anxiety: Bridging Eastern and Western Thought

The Tao of Anxiety: Bridging Eastern and Western Thought provides readers a clear and deeper understanding of how philosophical schools of thought guide anxiety management techniques in clinical and everyday life situations. Drawing on his vast experiences as a counseling professor and mental health professional, author David Bright helps readers understand how anxiety manifests in each of us and how the combination of both eastern and western philosophies with modern management techniques can result in greater personal insight, self-awareness, and emotional management. While many books speak to the use of eastern philosophical principles as they apply to mental health, few speak directly to the connection between existential philosophy, Buddhism, and modern mental health practices. By focusing on these commonalities, the book seeks to illuminate the common elements of these approaches for any individual seeking greater reflection and anxiety-management. The book features excerpts from the Tao Te Ching and quotes from existential philosophers in addition to summaries of modern therapeutic approaches created by major historical figures in psychotherapy. Simple examples and metaphors combined with cases inspired by real-world clinical work with clients facing a myriad of complex anxiety issues bring the material to life. The Tao of Anxiety is a brief, accessible, and conversational guide for clinicians-in-training, as well as any individual seeking to better understand and manage anxiety.