WHAT WE ARE READING

Welcome to our virtual bookshelf! Some of these books are our current favorites while others are foundational to the way we at Moving Mountain Institute approach our work . . . but we keep almost all of the titles represented here pretty close at hand. For a more in depth dialogue about these titles, check out our field notes blog at www.movingmountaininstitute.com or better yet, come chat us up!

[whatwearereading]

Being a Brain-Wise Therapist: A Practical Guide to Interpersonal Neurobiology (Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology)

Bonnie Badenoch

This book, part of the acclaimed Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology, brings interpersonal neurobiology into the counseling room, weaving the concepts of neurobiology into the ever-changing flow of therapy. Neuroscientific discoveries have begun to illuminate the workings of the active brain in intricate detail. In fact, sometimes it seems that in order to be a cutting-edge therapist, not only do you need knowledge of traditional psychotherapeutic models, but a solid understanding of the role the brain plays as well. But theory is never enough. You also need to know how to apply the theories to work with actual clients during sessions.

In easy-to-understand prose, Being a Brain-Wise Therapist reviews the basic principles about brain structure, function, and development, and explains the neurobiological correlates of some familiar diagnostic categories. You will learn how to make theory come to life in the midst of clinical work, so that the principles of interpersonal neurobiology can be applied to a range of patients and issues, such as couples, teens, and children, and those dealing with depression, anxiety, and other disorders. Liberal use of exercises and case histories enliven the material and make this an essential guide for seamlessly integrating the latest neuroscientific research into your therapeutic practice.

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The Developing Mind, Second Edition: How Relationships and the Brain Interact to Shape Who We Are

Daniel J. Siegel

This bestselling book put the field of interpersonal neurobiology on the map for over 100,000 readers. Daniel J. Siegel goes beyond the nature and nurture divisions that traditionally have constrained much of our thinking about development, exploring the role of interpersonal relationships in forging key connections in the brain. He presents a groundbreaking new way of thinking about the emergence of the human mind and the process by which each of us becomes a feeling, thinking, remembering individual. Illuminating how and why neurobiology matters, this book is essential reading for clinicians, educators, researchers, and students interested in promoting healthy development and resilience. Professors praise the book’s utility in courses from developmental psychology and child development to neuroscience and counseling.   New to This Edition *Incorporates significant scientific and technical advances. *Expanded discussions of cutting-edge topics, including neuroplasticity, epigenetics, mindfulness, and the neural correlates of consciousness.  *Useful pedagogical features: pull-outs, diagrams, and a glossary.  *Epilogue on domains of integration--specific pathways to well-being and therapeutic change. 

[whatwearereading]

Pocket Guide to Interpersonal Neurobiology: An Integrative Handbook of the Mind (Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology)

Daniel J. Siegel M.D.

The central concepts of the theory of interpersonal neurobiology. Many fields have explored the nature of mental life from psychology to psychiatry, literature to linguistics. Yet no common “framework” where each of these important perspectives can be honored and integrated with one another has been created in which a person seeking their collective wisdom can find answers to some basic questions, such as, What is the purpose of life? Why are we here? How do we know things, how are we conscious of ourselves? What is the mind? What makes a mind healthy or unwell? And, perhaps most importantly: What is the connection among the mind, the brain, and our relationships with one another?

Our mental lives are profoundly relational. The interactions we have with one another shape our mental world. Yet as any neuroscientist will tell you, the mind is shaped by the firing patterns in the brain. And so how can we reconcile this tension―that the mind is both embodied and relational? Interpersonal Neurobiology is a way of thinking across this apparent conceptual divide.

This Pocket Guide to Interpersonal Neurobiology is designed to aid in your personal and professional application of the interpersonal neurobiology approach to developing a healthy mind, an integrated brain, and empathic relationships. It is also designed to assist you in seeing the intricate foundations of interpersonal neurobiology as you read other books in the Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology.

Praise for Daniel J. Siegel's books:

“Siegel is a must-read author for anyone interested in the science of the mind.” ―Daniel Goleman, author of Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships

“[S]tands out for its skillful weaving together of the interpersonal, the inner world, the latest science, and practical applications.” ―Jack Kornfield, PhD, founding teacher of the Insight Meditation Society and Spirit Rock Center, and author of A Path With Heart

“Siegel has both a meticulous understanding of the roles of different parts of the brain and an intimate relationship with mindfulness . . . [A]n exciting glimpse of an uncharted territory of neuroscience.” ―Scientific American Mind

“Dr. Daniel Siegel is one of the most thoughtful, eloquent, scientifically solid and reputable exponents of mind/body/brain integration in the world today.” ―Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD, author of Wherever You Go, There You Are, Full Catastrophe Living, and Coming to Our Senses

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The Pocket Guide to the Polyvagal Theory: The Transformative Power of Feeling Safe (Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology)

Stephen W. Porges

Bridging the gap between research, science, and the therapy room. When

The Polyvagal Theory was published in 2011, it took the therapeutic world by storm, bringing Stephen Porges’s insights about the autonomic nervous system to a clinical audience interested in understanding trauma, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. The book made accessible to clinicians and other professionals a polyvagal perspective that provided new concepts and insights for understanding human behavior. The perspective placed an emphasis on the important link between psychological experiences and physical manifestations in the body. That book was brilliant but also quite challenging to read for some.

Since publication of that book, Stephen Porges has been urged to make these ideas more accessible and The Pocket Guide to the Polyvagal Theory is the result. Constructs and concepts embedded in polyvagal theory are explained conversationally in The Pocket Guide and there is an introductory chapter which discusses the science and the scientific culture in which polyvagal theory was originally developed. Publication of this work enables Stephen Porges to expand the meaning and clinical relevance of this groundbreaking theory. ---|

[whatwearereading]

Treating Visceral Dysfunction: An Osteopathic Approach to Understanding and Treating the Abdominal Organs by Finet, G., Williame, C. (2000) Paperback

G., Williame, C. Finet

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The Fasciae: Anatomy, Dysfunction and Treatment

Serge Paoletti

The fasciae comprise a wide variety of body tissues including the membranes, ligaments, tendons, and mesenteries. These tissues are all derived from the mesoderm, which undergoes coiling or rolling movements during embryonic development. This is the origin of the inherent micromovements, or motility, that are so important in many osteopathic approaches to diagnosis and treatment. The fasciae are found at every level of the body and constitute a basic element of human physiology. They serve as the body's first line of defense, acting independently of the central nervous system, which is why they are referred to as a peripheral brain. From a mechanical point of view, the fasciae are organized in chains to defend the body against restrictions. When a restriction goes beyond a specific threshold, the fasciae respond by modifying their viscoelasticity, changing the collagenic fibers, and transforming healthy fascial chains into lesional chains. The fasciae keep a record of every trauma that causes a change in motility. Through the sensitivity of trained hands, we are able to perceive movements on a microlevel and can thus detect motility disturbances, which reveal the medical history of a patient. Remedial techniques, adapted to each patient, can restore normal motility. In this way, fascial disturbances can be overcome, allowing the body to recover its normal physiological functions. For this reason, we can say that the health of every person is reflected in large part in the fasciae. The Fasciae: Anatomy, Dysfunction and Treatment is the first book to organize the wealth of available information concerning fascial tissues from the fields of embryology, anatomy, histology, and pathology. It describes the roles and mechanisms of the fasciae, and details appropriate testing and treatment techniques. The book is richly illustrated with color and black and white drawings.

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The Endless Web: Fascial Anatomy and Physical Reality

R. Louis Schultz

The result of more than two decades of research and practice, The Endless Web presents in clear, readable language a comprehensive guide to understanding and working effectively with the myofascial system, the 'packing material' of the body. Myofascia is a flexible network of tissue that surrounds, cushions, and supports muscles, bones, and organs. It also acts as a riverbed containing the flow of interstitial fluid, and is a critical influence on the immune and hormonal systems. In daily life, this connective tissue is an underlying determinant of movement quality, modd, alertness, and general well-being. The Endless Web is a fully illustrated guide to understanding how myofascia works, it supportive role within the body's anatomy, and how gentle manipulation of the myofascial tissue is central to lasting therapeutic intervention and how it can be integrated into any bodywork practice.

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The Master and His Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World

Iain McGilchrist

In a book of unprecedented scope--now available in a larger format—Iain McGilchrist presents a fascinating exploration of the differences between the brain’s left and right hemispheres, and how those differences have affected society, history, and culture. McGilchrist draws on a vast body of recent research in neuroscience and psychology  to reveal that the difference is profound: the left hemisphere is detail oriented, while the right has greater breadth, flexibility, and generosity. McGilchrist then takes the reader on a journey through the history of Western culture, illustrating the tension between these two worlds as revealed in the thought and belief of thinkers and artists from Aeschylus to Magritte.

"A landmark new book. . . . It tells a story you need to hear, of where we live now."—Bryan Appleyard, Sunday Times

"A very remarkable book. . . . McGilchrist, who is both an experienced psychiatrist and a shrewd philosopher, looks at the relation between our two brain-hemispheres in a new light, not just as an interesting neurological problem but as a crucial shaping factor in our culture . . . splendidly thought-provoking. . . . I couldn't put it down."—Mary Midgley, The Guardian

Named one of the best books of 2010 by The Guardian

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Integrative Manual Therapy for the Connective Tissue System: Using Myofascial Release: The 3-Planar Fascial Fulcrum Approach

Sharon Giammatteo

This book describes clinically proven hands-on techniques to decrease the pain and tensions of the myofascial tissues that cover every bodily organ. Included are protocols for lower back pain, respiratory discomfort, spinal dysfunction, headaches and migraines, joint problems, plantar fascitis, and more. Illustrated throughout, this is the fourth volume in the Integrative Manual Therapy series.

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In the Mind's Eye: Creative Visual Thinkers, Gifted Dyslexics, and the Rise of Visual Technologies

Thomas G. West

Now in its fifteenth printing, In the Mind’s Eye has been recognized as a classic in its field. The book still stands alone as a uniquely compelling argument for the great importance of visual thinking and visual technologies as well as the high creative potential of many individuals with dyslexia or other learning difficulties.

In this second edition, Thomas G. West reviews a number of recent developments that support and extend the perspectives and expectations originally set forth in the first edition. In addition to the original eleven portraits of famous individuals with learning difficulties (including Albert Einstein and Thomas Edison), he has added brief profiles of two dyslexic scientists known for their ability to generate, in quite different fields, powerful but unexpected innovations and discoveries: William J. Dreyer, a Caltech professor who used his highly visual imagination to see things in molecular biology and immunology well before others; and John R. (Jack) Horner, who flunked out of the University of Montana seven times (requiring letters of support for readmission) but is now known as one of the three most important paleontologists in the world.

Recognized as among the "best of the best" by the American Library Association in their broad psychology and neuroscience category, this title belongs on the bookshelves of all educators and anyone with an interest in visual thinking, visual technologies, and highly creative people with learning difficulties.

[whatwearereading]

The Mountains and Waters Sutra: A Practitioner's Guide to Dogen's

Shohaku Okumura

An indispensible map of a classic Zen text.

“Mountains and waters are the expression of old buddhas.”

So begins “Sansuikyo,” or “Mountains and Waters Sutra,” a masterpiece of poetry and insight from Eihei Dogen, the thirteenth-century founder of the Soto school of Zen.

Shohaku Okumura—renowned for his translations of and magisterial teachings on Dogen—guides the reader through the rich layers of metaphor and meaning in “Sansuikyo,” which is often thought to be the most beautiful essay in Dogen’s monumental *Shobogenzo**.* His wise and friendly voice shows us the questions Dogen poses and helps us realize what the answers could be. What does it mean for  mountains to walk? How are mountains an expression of Buddha’s truth, and how can we learn to hear the deep teachings of river waters? Throughout this luminous volume, we learn how we can live in harmony with nature in respect and gratitude—and awaken to our true nature.

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Wen Fu: The Art of Writing

Sam (translator) Lu Chi; Hamill

Book by Lu Chi; Hamill, Sam (translator)

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New Poets of Native Nations

Heid E. Erdrich

A landmark anthology celebrating twenty-one Native poets first published in the twenty-first century ** New Poets of Native Nations gathers poets of diverse ages, styles, languages, and tribal affiliations to present the extraordinary range and power of new Native poetry. Heid E. Erdrich has selected twenty-one poets whose first books were published after the year 2000 to highlight the exciting works coming up after Joy Harjo and Sherman Alexie. Collected here are poems of great breadth―long narratives, political outcries, experimental works, and traditional lyrics―and the result is an essential anthology of some of the best poets writing now.

Poets included are Tacey M. Atsitty, Trevino L. Brings Plenty, Julian Talamantez Brolaski, Laura Da’, Natalie Diaz, Jennifer Elise Foerster, Eric Gansworth, Gordon Henry, Jr., Sy Hoahwah, LeAnne Howe, Layli Long Soldier, Janet McAdams, Brandy Nalani McDougall, Margaret Noodin, dg okpik, Craig Santos Perez, Tommy Pico, Cedar Sigo, M. L. Smoker, Gwen Westerman, and Karenne Wood.

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A Child of Books

Oliver Jeffers

"This is an editor favorite for its inventive illustrations and story that explores the wonders of books. It's great for children beginning to experience the joy of reading independently." - Seira Wilson, Amazon Editor

A little girl sails her raft across a sea of words, arriving at the house of a small boy and calling him away on an adventure. Through forests of fairy tales and across mountains of make-believe, the two travel together on a fantastical journey that unlocks the boy’s imagination. Now a lifetime of magic and adventure lies ahead of him . . . but who will be next? Combining elegant images by Oliver Jeffers and Sam Winston’s typographical landscapes shaped from excerpts of children’s classics and lullabies, *A Child of Books *is a stunning prose poem on the rewards of reading and sharing stories—an immersive and unforgettable reading experience that readers will want to pass on to others.

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Desert: Poems

David Hinton

The first collection of original poetry by the renowned nature writer and highly lauded translator of the Chinese classics.

Traveling today I found a river somewhere inside me, wondered   how far it wanders there   and how much sky it mirrors. All day long, wind and desert

light, I followed that river’s distances . . .    Weaving mind and landscape together in meditations on sky and wind, ridgeline and horizon, existence and self, Desert marks David Hinton’s first collection of original poetry in over a decade. Hinton’s poetic art has long shined brilliantly through his widely acclaimed Chinese translations—and here speaks for itself in his contemporary voice as he turns his attention to the transcendent landscape of the American West. Updating the philosophical insights of ancient China that Hinton has explored so deeply, these poems bring the wonder and ancient mystery of the desert landscape to light. Hinton demonstrated in The Wilds of Poetry how those ancient Chinese insights shaped the innovative American poetry of our time, and here he extends that tradition in poems that are spare and spacious, as vast and open as the desert itself.

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Feldenkrais Illustrated: The Art of Learning

Tiffany Sankary

Feldenkrais Illustrated: The Art of Learning weaves together the writings of Moshe Feldenkrais with Tiffany Sankary's drawings. Feldenkrais (1904-1984) was a physicist, martial artist, engineer, and somatic pioneer who developed The Feldenkrais Method®, an innovative approach to learning, movement, and awareness to help improve all aspects of human functioning. Sankary illustrates excerpts from Feldenkrais' books and articles, organizing and bringing to life his core ideas to make them accessible to seasoned practitioners, students and those new to the Method.

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Molecules of Emotion: Why You Feel the Way You Feel by Candace Pert (1999-03-01)

Candace Pert