Nicola’s first cookbook “The Dao of Harmony Dawn Cooking- Innovative and Acclaimed Spa Cuisine” was written in response to the overwhelming demand for recipes, cooking tips and food-health information from the many guests at Harmony Dawn. The 220 recipes in the book, like the menus at Harmony Dawn are predominantly vegetarian with a few fish and seafood options.

To purchase the book contact the author at nic@harmonydawn.com
The book retails for $26.95 plus GST, published by First Choice Books www.firstchoicebooks.ca

Experts from diverse fields of endeavor are warning that an urgent change in direction and approach to life is necessary. In our hearts, we know we should act, but many feel overwhelmed by the increasing complexity and demands of life. In this powerfully insightful book, James connects the dots between the major issues of our times - the environment, stress, technology, corporations, the Free Market, globalization, terrorism, the media and religion.

He points out the startlingly obvious - we cannot bring order to our external world without first understanding ourselves. We need a common purpose and vision to make the Global Village work and this can only occur through a shift in consciousness. James explains that self-transformation (not exclusive belief ) is the real message of the world's great spiritual teachers. This Ageless Wisdom Spirituality is to be found in all cultures and is thus our spiritual Common Ground and the vital ingredient missing from modernity.

"Here is another highly inspiring book written with a great clarity andbroad scope by Andy James." - Dhiravamsa, Buddhist meditation master and author.

"Andy James delivers a comprehensive critique of life at the beginning of the 21st century and offers a wise transformational strategy capable of preventing us from ending up where we are heading. Ageless Wisdom Spirituality is a must read for any thinking person looking for a grounded alternative to the spirit-less materialism that is taking us, lemming-like, into an unsustainable future.” – Eli Bay, Founder of the Relaxation Response Institute

Combining the genius of Chan (Zen) Buddhism and Daoism with rigorous physical and martial discipline and breathing exercises, the training that originated at China's famous Shaolin Temple was a unique elixir that would change the way the world perceived mind and body. Here, Andy James exposes the hitherto unrecognized spiritual legacy of Shaolin Temple, which has provided modernity with comprehensive, time-tested techniques in martial arts, health maintenance, energetic healing and spiritual transformation. In addition to Buddhism and Daoism, James explores Qigong (Chi Kung) and the "internal" systems of martial arts such as Taijiquan (Tai Chi Chuan). While many books have traced Chan's story into Japan, James remains in China to explain how the unique spiritual, martial and energetic traditions of the Shaolin Temple continued to interact and evolve in dynamic relation to culture, society, and the individual. This engaging and very personal book will appeal to martial arts enthusiasts, healing arts professionals, and anyone interested in the mind-body connection.

The Spiritual Legacy of the Shaolin Temple is perhaps the most concise, accurate, and clearly written history of Shaolin, Buddhism, and Daoism I have read. James has a rich personal history that led him to study wu shu, and the practical instructions in the last chapter will allow any interested reader in internal martial arts and meditation to begin practicing immediately. This is a valuable addition to anyone’s library.” - B.K. Loren, author of The Way of the River: Adventures and Meditations of a Woman Martial Artist.

“For reasons of language, culture and politics, Westerners have long found the complex interplay between Buddhism, Confucianism and Daoism – the Three Doctrines of China – a dense and thorny jungle. Andy James’ book coheres these philosophies, belief systems and practices in a compulsively readable and personal way. The Spiritual Legacy of Shaolin Temple is a must for the sinophile and Buddhist, and a surprisingly useful book for the internal martial artist too, as it explains the roots of these fantastic and arcane practices and argues persuasively for their place in modern society.” – Arthur Rosenfeld, author

Here is a book for those who seek real change in their life. Written by meditation and Tai Chi teacher Andy James, this eloquent and deeply insightful treatise shows the way to effect true and lasting change.

THE CONSCIOUS I is a challenging book. While real personal transformation is possible and accessible, it is not easy. However, the conscientious practitioner of meditation is able to come to grips with the powerful conditioning patterns that govern human behaviour. In mastering the art of meditation, we gain self-knowledge. We are able to minimize stress and maximize performance. We respond with total clarity in each moment.

THE CONSCIOUS I provides a lucid blueprint for radical inner work. It points out the way to a new thic of life on our planet.

"An excellent book" - Ken Wilber