My latest book applies traditional Buddhist teaching and contemplative practice to the timely issue of how to find contentment and wisdom throughout the aging process.

Here is an excerpt from the book jacket:

“On the road that anyone fortunate enough to have lived this long must take, the first truth of aging is also the first truth of Buddhist teaching: Everything changes. In Aging as a Spiritual Practice, Buddhist priest and meditation teacher Lewis Richmond helps us understand how the transformation can bring new possibilities, fresh beginnings, a wealth of appreciation and a depth of gratitude that profoundly affects how our lives proceed. Richmond offers an inner roadmap for aging, acknowledging the fear, anger, and sorrow many people experience when they must confront the indignities of their aging bodies and the unknowns associated with mortality, as well as explaining the four key stages of aging.”

“This book guides us in navigating aging and reaping the blessings of happiness, openheartedness and inner freedom.  Lewis Richmond writes from the radiance of his own discovery—he is fresh, clear and wise.”

—Tara Brach, Ph.D., author of Radical Acceptance

“As someone who recently turned 70, I ate up Lewis Richmond’s words. The book is fun and enlightening. I’ll never forget some of the stories and the sharp formulas the author uses to remember how to age with some pleasure. The Buddhist point of view is especially fresh and useful. There’s some Zen in all of us, deep down.”

—Thomas Moore, author of Care of the Soul and Writing in the Sand

Winner of the Nautilus Book Award Gold Medal in the Aging / Retirement category in 2013

Available through Amazon.com

Based on the author’s 15 years’ experience as a Buddhist priest and meditation teacher, as well as another 15 years as a business executive and software entrepreneur, this book provides over 40 practical methods and techniques for applying Buddhist spiritual practices in the middle of your workday. Available through Amazon.com

For Lewis Richmond, overcoming a swift and devastating brain disease was only the beginning of an intense, protracted journey of recovery. But the Buddhist teachings that sustained him throughout his adult life would prove essential in guiding him back to wellness – and toward rebirth and transformation. Richmond shares the lessons he learned and the wisdom he won in sickness and in health. This memoir is an affirmation – and a celebration – of life, and a testament to the human spirit. Available through Amazon.com

A Whole Life’s Work addresses a primary struggle of contemporary life: how to strike a balance between achievement and ambition on the one hand, and happiness and fulfillment on the other. Through teaching stories, spiritual exercises, and interviews, the book provides an invaluable roadmap toward the ultimate reconciliation of outer livelihood with inner life, so that when we have grown old we can look back and say: I did the best I could, what I did counted, I am satisfied. Available through Amazon.com

This is another book on aging particularly oriented toward the particular issues men encounter during the aging journey.  Probably the overall message of the book can be summarized in two words: Vulnerability is Strength.  Although the book is designed for men and provides a unique toolset of teachings, anecdotes, and contemplative reflections for men, women will find much of interest to them too. Available through Amazon.com

Watch a 3 minute video of Lewis describing the book in more detail.