The food and body conflict is a problem. Spirituality, self-awareness and a healthy dose of yoga are the answer, according to Ginsburg and Taylor, the "Eating Wisely" columnists for Yoga Journal. Part self-help book, part manifesto, this volume reveals the absurdity of "the Covenant" (women's confidential, unspoken belief that "thinness equals happiness"), stating, "if that's true, then impoverished women who don't have enough to eat must be very happy, because they're very thin." The authors offer a series of Eastern mind/body practices to help women find their dharma—"one's inner nature and spiritual core"—and to stay true to that personal purpose. Only then can women begin to address the "longing for spiritual fulfillment that leaves us always hungry and dissatisfied." Other tools teach how to listen to gut feelings and recognize signals from the body about what and when to eat, so eating behavior is not dictated by habit, theories or diets. Readers will find little in the way of nutritional guidelines or food plans other than passing reference to the importance of a balanced diet based on whole, organic foods. Instead, they will learn to savor the "rasa" (essence) of food and to eat what feels right for them. For those women willing to undertake the often unpleasant journey to self-awareness and to commit to living a conscious and self-examined life, this is a helpful manual. Agent, Jane Dystel. (Jan.)
