What do you think?
Rate this book
Return Of The Rishi: A Doctor's Story of Spiritual Transformation and Ayurvedic Healing – A Physician's Journey from India and Ancient Traditions to Mind-Body Medicine
نگارنده در این کتاب، اجراهایی از بیماران و مشکلات جسمی و روحی آنان بازگو میکند که با استفاده از ((مدی تیشن)) درمان شدهاند .
224 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2007
6 people are currently reading
191 people want to read
About the author
Deepak Chopra
694 books19.1k followersDeepak Chopra, MD serves as the Founder and Chairman of The Chopra Foundation, and Co-Founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing.
As a global leader and pioneer in the field of mind-body medicine, Chopra transforms the way the world views physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness. Known as a prolific author of eighty books books with twenty-two New York Times best sellers in both fiction and non-fiction, his works have been published in more than forty-three languages.
Chopra’s medical training is in internal medicine and endocrinology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. Dr. Chopra serves as Co-Founder and Chairman of The Chopra Center for Wellbeing, Founder of The Chopra Well on YouTube, Adjunct Professor of Executive Programs at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Adjunct Professor at Columbia Business School, Columbia University, Assistant Clinical Professor, in the Family and Preventive Medicine Department at the University of California, San Diego, Health Sciences, Faculty at Walt Disney Imagineering, and Senior Scientist with The Gallup Organization.
GlobeIn acknowledges Chopra as "one of top ten most influential spiritual leaders around the world." TIME magazine has described Dr. Chopra as "one of the top 100 heroes and icons of the century and credits him as "the poet-prophet of alternative medicine."
As a global leader and pioneer in the field of mind-body medicine, Chopra transforms the way the world views physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and social wellness. Known as a prolific author of eighty books books with twenty-two New York Times best sellers in both fiction and non-fiction, his works have been published in more than forty-three languages.
Chopra’s medical training is in internal medicine and endocrinology. He is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and a member of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. Dr. Chopra serves as Co-Founder and Chairman of The Chopra Center for Wellbeing, Founder of The Chopra Well on YouTube, Adjunct Professor of Executive Programs at Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Adjunct Professor at Columbia Business School, Columbia University, Assistant Clinical Professor, in the Family and Preventive Medicine Department at the University of California, San Diego, Health Sciences, Faculty at Walt Disney Imagineering, and Senior Scientist with The Gallup Organization.
GlobeIn acknowledges Chopra as "one of top ten most influential spiritual leaders around the world." TIME magazine has described Dr. Chopra as "one of the top 100 heroes and icons of the century and credits him as "the poet-prophet of alternative medicine."
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
January 1, 2017
This is one of my favorite books of all time. I read this when I was 13 ,now I'm 16, and it became my fav book! I love Deepak Chopra and the way this book is written is wonderful as well as all of the knowledge it comes on with.
This is a truly amazing depiction of how he grew up and his experiences with medicine, and the first moments of his life-long doctor career.
This is a truly amazing depiction of how he grew up and his experiences with medicine, and the first moments of his life-long doctor career.
Read
July 30, 2024"Return of the Rishi: A Doctor's Search for the Ultimate Healer" by Deepak Chopra is an autobiographical account that chronicles the author's spiritual and professional transformation. In this book, Chopra shares his journey from being a traditional medical doctor to becoming a proponent of holistic health and Ayurvedic medicine. The term "Rishi" refers to an ancient sage or seer in Indian tradition, symbolizing wisdom and spiritual insight.
Synopsis
The book opens with Chopra's experiences as a practicing endocrinologist in the United States. Despite a successful career, he feels increasingly dissatisfied with the conventional medical system, which he finds too focused on treating symptoms rather than addressing the root causes of illness. His observations about the limitations of Western medicine's emphasis on pharmaceuticals and technology set the stage for his exploration of alternative approaches.
Chopra's journey takes a significant turn when he encounters Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient system of healing from India. Through this discovery, he learns about the mind-body connection, the importance of balance, and the holistic view of health that Ayurveda promotes. The book details his exploration of Ayurvedic principles, including the concepts of doshas (biological energies), the role of diet, lifestyle, and the mental and spiritual aspects of well-being.
Key Themes and Concepts
1. Holistic Healing:
- Chopra emphasizes the importance of considering the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—in the healing process. He contrasts this with the reductionist approach of Western medicine, which often isolates symptoms from the broader context of the individual's life and well-being.
2. Mind-Body Connection:
- The book explores the intricate link between mental states and physical health. Chopra shares insights into how thoughts, emotions, and stress can influence physical well-being, and how practices like meditation and mindfulness can promote healing.
3. Ayurvedic Principles:
- Chopra introduces readers to the foundational concepts of Ayurveda, including the balance of doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), the significance of individualized treatment, and the use of natural remedies. He explains how Ayurveda seeks to restore harmony within the body and with the natural world.
4. Spiritual Awakening:
- A significant aspect of Chopra's journey is his own spiritual awakening. He recounts experiences and realizations that deepen his understanding of life's purpose and the nature of healing. This spiritual dimension becomes a core element of his approach to medicine and life.
5. Transformation and Integration:
- Chopra describes his process of integrating these new insights and practices into his professional and personal life. He shares how he began to incorporate holistic practices into his medical practice and how this shift affected his relationships with patients and colleagues.
Review
"Return of the Rishi" is an inspiring and insightful narrative that offers a compelling look at the limitations of conventional medicine and the potential of holistic approaches. It serves as both a personal memoir and a guide to understanding alternative healing traditions.
**Strengths**:
- **Personal Narrative**: The autobiographical format allows readers to connect with Chopra's personal struggles and transformations, making the book relatable and engaging.
- **Introduction to Ayurveda**: The book serves as an accessible introduction to Ayurvedic concepts for those unfamiliar with this system of medicine.
- **Integration of Spirituality**: Chopra's exploration of the spiritual aspects of healing adds a unique dimension to the discussion of health and wellness.
**Weaknesses**:
- **Subjectivity**: As a personal account, the book may be subjective in its portrayal of Western medicine and alternative practices, reflecting Chopra's personal journey rather than an objective analysis.
- **Generalization**: Some concepts may be presented in a generalized manner, and readers may need to seek further information to fully understand the complexities of Ayurveda and holistic health.
Conclusion
"Return of the Rishi: A Doctor's Search for the Ultimate Healer" is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between Western medicine and Eastern healing traditions. Deepak Chopra's journey offers valuable insights into the importance of a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the mind-body connection and the role of spirituality in healing. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in alternative medicine, personal growth, and the quest for a deeper understanding of health and wellness.
Synopsis
The book opens with Chopra's experiences as a practicing endocrinologist in the United States. Despite a successful career, he feels increasingly dissatisfied with the conventional medical system, which he finds too focused on treating symptoms rather than addressing the root causes of illness. His observations about the limitations of Western medicine's emphasis on pharmaceuticals and technology set the stage for his exploration of alternative approaches.
Chopra's journey takes a significant turn when he encounters Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient system of healing from India. Through this discovery, he learns about the mind-body connection, the importance of balance, and the holistic view of health that Ayurveda promotes. The book details his exploration of Ayurvedic principles, including the concepts of doshas (biological energies), the role of diet, lifestyle, and the mental and spiritual aspects of well-being.
Key Themes and Concepts
1. Holistic Healing:
- Chopra emphasizes the importance of considering the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—in the healing process. He contrasts this with the reductionist approach of Western medicine, which often isolates symptoms from the broader context of the individual's life and well-being.
2. Mind-Body Connection:
- The book explores the intricate link between mental states and physical health. Chopra shares insights into how thoughts, emotions, and stress can influence physical well-being, and how practices like meditation and mindfulness can promote healing.
3. Ayurvedic Principles:
- Chopra introduces readers to the foundational concepts of Ayurveda, including the balance of doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), the significance of individualized treatment, and the use of natural remedies. He explains how Ayurveda seeks to restore harmony within the body and with the natural world.
4. Spiritual Awakening:
- A significant aspect of Chopra's journey is his own spiritual awakening. He recounts experiences and realizations that deepen his understanding of life's purpose and the nature of healing. This spiritual dimension becomes a core element of his approach to medicine and life.
5. Transformation and Integration:
- Chopra describes his process of integrating these new insights and practices into his professional and personal life. He shares how he began to incorporate holistic practices into his medical practice and how this shift affected his relationships with patients and colleagues.
Review
"Return of the Rishi" is an inspiring and insightful narrative that offers a compelling look at the limitations of conventional medicine and the potential of holistic approaches. It serves as both a personal memoir and a guide to understanding alternative healing traditions.
**Strengths**:
- **Personal Narrative**: The autobiographical format allows readers to connect with Chopra's personal struggles and transformations, making the book relatable and engaging.
- **Introduction to Ayurveda**: The book serves as an accessible introduction to Ayurvedic concepts for those unfamiliar with this system of medicine.
- **Integration of Spirituality**: Chopra's exploration of the spiritual aspects of healing adds a unique dimension to the discussion of health and wellness.
**Weaknesses**:
- **Subjectivity**: As a personal account, the book may be subjective in its portrayal of Western medicine and alternative practices, reflecting Chopra's personal journey rather than an objective analysis.
- **Generalization**: Some concepts may be presented in a generalized manner, and readers may need to seek further information to fully understand the complexities of Ayurveda and holistic health.
Conclusion
"Return of the Rishi: A Doctor's Search for the Ultimate Healer" is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between Western medicine and Eastern healing traditions. Deepak Chopra's journey offers valuable insights into the importance of a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the mind-body connection and the role of spirituality in healing. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in alternative medicine, personal growth, and the quest for a deeper understanding of health and wellness.
December 29, 2022
I've read a lot of Deepak's books, and I tend to like those that are more personal and anecdotal. This is an old book of his (1988?) and I also find the earlier books even more interesting.
I'm an Ayurvedic-trained Certified Yoga Therapist, and his book is all about the benefits of Ayurveda, though relayed in a way to make it easy for people to digest who have zero knowledge of the Indian life science. I think that was a great approach. Of course, he infuses loads of medical info to support the value of Ayurveda. But I most enjoyed hearing his personal tales, especially those from India or related to his family.
I'm an Ayurvedic-trained Certified Yoga Therapist, and his book is all about the benefits of Ayurveda, though relayed in a way to make it easy for people to digest who have zero knowledge of the Indian life science. I think that was a great approach. Of course, he infuses loads of medical info to support the value of Ayurveda. But I most enjoyed hearing his personal tales, especially those from India or related to his family.
April 23, 2025
"Return of the Rishi" chronicles the author's journey from Western medicine to the more holistic approach of Ayurveda and Transcendental Meditation. The author became a practitioner and eventually a teacher of Transcendental Meditation and Ayurveda but left Transcendental Organization in 1992 to pursue his own professional career. Notwithstanding the author's departure from the Organization, the author maintains transcendental meditation as a significant meditation technique that greatly influenced his own spiritual development and catalyst for his own personal transformation. I would highly recommend this book
April 12, 2020
O livro de 1988 é a biografia de um médico nascido na Índia, que, após se formar na medicina tradicional, resgata suas raízes. Simples e profundos, os ensinamentos indianos, muitos passados de geração em geração, de forma oral, são emocionantes, veem a doença como a oportunidade da cura, e não dá morte, já que tem uma visão holística do homem como parte da natureza.
July 22, 2021
A great book and it gave me a lot to think about. I loved learning about transcendental meditation and how it can bring world peace.
May 28, 2024
Excelente libri
February 16, 2021
Decent read on the power of self healing and ayurvedic practice.
December 28, 2023
This was an interesting read... Giving more insight into Deepaks life's and beginnings - his transformation to alternative medicine compared to conventional means
.. But that's just it - nothing much else beyond that - so not great unless your a raving Dr Chopra fan?
To Our Continued Success!
Seemy
www.Waseem.tv/Blog
👆🏼 P.S -
If you found this review helpful - I’d like to invite you to discover more on our blog. Where the community share some of our most important insights to level up each others knowledge 💡- from experience in studying books like this, training programs, podcasts and much more - visit the blog link above to find out more.
P.P.S 😅 - You probably noticed from my profile that I’ve reviewed a LOT of books over the years now - if you love seeking knowledge like me I’d love to connect with you further as a like minded person (send me a friend invite! 😀) - Also if you are curious - here is my preferred and recommended resource for seeking timeless wisdom - Check it out via the website invite link below 👇🏼 (You’ll be able to claim some awesome books for free 📚)
https://Waseem.tv/GoodReadsBookInvite
.. But that's just it - nothing much else beyond that - so not great unless your a raving Dr Chopra fan?
To Our Continued Success!
Seemy
www.Waseem.tv/Blog
👆🏼 P.S -
If you found this review helpful - I’d like to invite you to discover more on our blog. Where the community share some of our most important insights to level up each others knowledge 💡- from experience in studying books like this, training programs, podcasts and much more - visit the blog link above to find out more.
P.P.S 😅 - You probably noticed from my profile that I’ve reviewed a LOT of books over the years now - if you love seeking knowledge like me I’d love to connect with you further as a like minded person (send me a friend invite! 😀) - Also if you are curious - here is my preferred and recommended resource for seeking timeless wisdom - Check it out via the website invite link below 👇🏼 (You’ll be able to claim some awesome books for free 📚)
https://Waseem.tv/GoodReadsBookInvite
January 31, 2013
Interesting stories, and it was fascinating to learn about Dr. Chopra's journey from traditional medicine to ayurveda. I did find it a little frustrating that the book didn't have that many actual information on ayurveda, but the author wrote in the postscript that he intended the book to be more about his personal discovery of the ancient field rather than about actual techniques, so I can respect that. Just be aware that if you're figuring out how to do actual ayurveda, this isn't going to be helpful; but, looking at it as a narrative, it's interesting to see Dr. Chopra's findings over time.
September 19, 2022
Cuando el amor nace en nosotros se multiplicara entre las personas cerca nuestra. Sentiremos como nuestra salud, la felicidad y la libertad personal se crece y surge en el entorno una verdadera transformación. Eso es lo que nos enseña este hermoso libro.
September 12, 2023
“Cuando el amor se eleva en nosotros, se elevará en la totalidad del mundo. Se hará evidente una nueva realidad que yace sobre el cimiento de la salud, la felicidad y la libertad personal. El Ayurveda nos ofrece estos regalos, si solo no somos tan ciegos como para rechazarlo”. Hermosa lectura .
June 6, 2008
Just read this - a great book on one doctor's turn away from allopathic medicine towards the deep wisdom of Ayurveda.
April 13, 2009
Wonderful introduction to Ayurveda and how he became a doctor. I had this book for some years and never properly read it. I am glad I did since it only took me 2 weeks to read.
July 26, 2017
Ineresante y entretenido. Nos muestra como Deepak Chopra retoma las enseñazas de su país de origen en la búsqueda de humanizar más la medicina occidental, desde su perspectiva.
July 11, 2021
Recopilación de historias de vida de Deepak Chopra.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews