Eastspirit: Transnational Spirituality and Religious Circulation in East and West

Book Description

In our interconnected world, ancient Eastern wisdom traditions have traveled far beyond their origins, weaving themselves into the fabric of contemporary spiritual life across the globe. This scholarly exploration examines how practices like mindfulness, yoga, Zen meditation, and Ayurveda have transformed as they crossed cultural boundaries, adapting to new contexts while maintaining their essential spirit.

Jø Borup offers readers a comprehensive look at this fascinating phenomenon of spiritual circulation, tracing how Eastern concepts have found new expressions in Western settings. From meditation halls to corporate wellness programs, from prison rehabilitation to hospital healing centers, these traditions have evolved to meet diverse needs while creating unexpected bridges between cultures.

The book reveals how this spiritual exchange flows in both directions. While Western societies embrace adapted forms of Eastern practices, these same traditions undergo fresh transformations when they return to their Asian homelands, creating a dynamic cycle of mutual influence and reinterpretation.

Rather than viewing this as simple cultural appropriation or dilution, Borup presents a nuanced analysis of how spiritual traditions naturally evolve through contact and circulation. Readers interested in understanding the complex journey of spiritual practices across cultures will discover insights into how ancient wisdom adapts to serve contemporary seekers while maintaining its transformative power.

This work illuminates the rich tapestry of transnational spirituality that shapes our modern spiritual landscape.