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Atmamun: The Path To Achieving The Bliss Of The Himalayan Swamis. And The Freedom Of A Living God.
Atmamun is the path to achieve the bliss of the Himalayan Swamis and the Freedom Of a living God. It is for True Seekers. It is for those who wish to move beyond the self-help and cosmetic slogans of meditation and mindfulness, toward the Ultimate Truths of Life and the Mind.
137 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 22, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
May 15, 2019
The poisoned chalice
I really benefitted from Dr. Gupta somehow he got through to me and the scams I run on myself. I feel the chapter on children really will pay dividends as my boys raise me up. It's a Near Death Experience for the reader and it richly rewards him.
I really benefitted from Dr. Gupta somehow he got through to me and the scams I run on myself. I feel the chapter on children really will pay dividends as my boys raise me up. It's a Near Death Experience for the reader and it richly rewards him.
February 28, 2021
My fav quotes (not a review):
• "KG: Imagine that you are fighting a war. And that you have found a way to spy on your enemy so that you can see his every move. Wouldn’t this allow you to escape him?"
• "For the next few minutes, this person in the mirror has no caretaker. His caretaker is taking a break. Put this book down and do this NOW. PLEASE DO IT."
• "One of the most useful qualities of human beings is also their poison. And this is the quality of Adaptability."
• "A “job” is an insult to a human being. For a human being is a prince of men. He is a king of existence. We have lost our way. And have taken comfort in the company of sheep. And the time has come for us to look at our own reflection. The man who is in love with his trade is not a worker. He is an artist. Whether he makes a million dollars or a thousand, he is living in accordance with his nature. And thus his days are filled with joy."
• "Here is the crux of the matter: When the mind desires winning, its fear of losing far exceeds the desire for winning. As a result, there is intense anxiety. Which, in turn, sabotages the individual’s performance. And often results in the very thing that the mind feared all along: Losing."
• "The vast majority of human beings in the world, myself included, should not have been granted nature’s permission to have children. For this is the sort of on-the-job training that is completely unfair to the child."
• "But you have failed to give them that which they have craved from the moment they were born. They did not need you to buy them things. They did not need for you to take them places. They did not need for you to raise them or teach them. What they needed was for you to be so madly in love with them, that they would never feel the need to leave you. What they needed was for you to look into their eyes and see creation. What they needed was for you to give your entire self to them, and keep your mind to yourself."
• "Change is cosmetic. For he who changes, changes back. Transformation is permanent. And it begins with a decision. Not a decision to acquire, but a decision to lose. What about yourself would you like to lose? What are the things in your life and outlook that you would like to completely abandon?"
• "KG: Imagine that you are fighting a war. And that you have found a way to spy on your enemy so that you can see his every move. Wouldn’t this allow you to escape him?"
• "For the next few minutes, this person in the mirror has no caretaker. His caretaker is taking a break. Put this book down and do this NOW. PLEASE DO IT."
• "One of the most useful qualities of human beings is also their poison. And this is the quality of Adaptability."
• "A “job” is an insult to a human being. For a human being is a prince of men. He is a king of existence. We have lost our way. And have taken comfort in the company of sheep. And the time has come for us to look at our own reflection. The man who is in love with his trade is not a worker. He is an artist. Whether he makes a million dollars or a thousand, he is living in accordance with his nature. And thus his days are filled with joy."
• "Here is the crux of the matter: When the mind desires winning, its fear of losing far exceeds the desire for winning. As a result, there is intense anxiety. Which, in turn, sabotages the individual’s performance. And often results in the very thing that the mind feared all along: Losing."
• "The vast majority of human beings in the world, myself included, should not have been granted nature’s permission to have children. For this is the sort of on-the-job training that is completely unfair to the child."
• "But you have failed to give them that which they have craved from the moment they were born. They did not need you to buy them things. They did not need for you to take them places. They did not need for you to raise them or teach them. What they needed was for you to be so madly in love with them, that they would never feel the need to leave you. What they needed was for you to look into their eyes and see creation. What they needed was for you to give your entire self to them, and keep your mind to yourself."
• "Change is cosmetic. For he who changes, changes back. Transformation is permanent. And it begins with a decision. Not a decision to acquire, but a decision to lose. What about yourself would you like to lose? What are the things in your life and outlook that you would like to completely abandon?"
November 1, 2023
This is one of the most thought provoking book I have read this year. The way this book ends leaves you with so much to think about in life.
The book is really brilliant if you have already dipped your toe into philosophy and religion a little. If not then I wouldn’t recommend going to this book as you might not get the most out of it.
I will be reading this book again and again to grasp all the concepts. A very inspiring, spiritual, refreshing and a philosophical read.
The book is really brilliant if you have already dipped your toe into philosophy and religion a little. If not then I wouldn’t recommend going to this book as you might not get the most out of it.
I will be reading this book again and again to grasp all the concepts. A very inspiring, spiritual, refreshing and a philosophical read.
September 8, 2018
At the beginning on the book, the author says that Atmamun is the only spiritual book you will ever need. After reading the book, I find the claim to be undeniably correct. Ultimately, there is a single truth on which all spiritual teachings rest upon - that the mind is the source of all human suffering. But the way Kapil expounds on the fundamental characteristics of the mind throughout the book makes this hard truth easily palatable. No BS, no wish wash drama.
In Kapils' other books which I must say are also rich in insight, he is going through conversations with the Master and the student. However, these conversations are abrupt and don't flow really well.
However this one flows like a gushing river shattering all conventional wisdom you might have had about happiness.
There are books which could change your life and Atmamun is definitely one.
In Kapils' other books which I must say are also rich in insight, he is going through conversations with the Master and the student. However, these conversations are abrupt and don't flow really well.
However this one flows like a gushing river shattering all conventional wisdom you might have had about happiness.
There are books which could change your life and Atmamun is definitely one.
March 30, 2023
What do you call a book that talks about everything and yet says one thing throughout? It’s a book that does not preach, has no secret to share, no life truths to learn and yet is deep and makes you think and think hard.
You may agree or not is your outlook but it will surely make you think either in appreciation or in bewilderment or in disgust.
I suggest everyone to survey read this once and then read this book at different stages of your life . Every time you read it , you may have a different perspective and experience and learning’s or takeaways.
For me it’s a 4.5 rating .
You may agree or not is your outlook but it will surely make you think either in appreciation or in bewilderment or in disgust.
I suggest everyone to survey read this once and then read this book at different stages of your life . Every time you read it , you may have a different perspective and experience and learning’s or takeaways.
For me it’s a 4.5 rating .
November 1, 2022
Kapil Gupta has his own way of putting you in front of provocative metaphors until you get the point by yourself.
This book is about awareness, of your mind and its downsides, and about how to achieve peace.
This book is about awareness, of your mind and its downsides, and about how to achieve peace.
September 1, 2018
Warning : This book might change your life.
January 23, 2024
A book suggested for an age group (above 35-40) and truly it holds that category. The author has straight forward ripped off numerous lies that have been told to humans through ages. What's really striking is that the author has written everything what he has experienced as "The Truth".
I feel this is a book to be revisited as per one's understanding, for you are not the same person when you read this book the next time.
Self help, positive thinking and other modern day's in vogue jargon have been shown their true picture in this eye opening book by Kapil Gupta. Do consider picking this book, if you have the curiosity about knowing yourself and have been exploring something about it for a while. Otherwise, it would not make sense for the reader.
The chapter on Parenting has given a 180 degree perception about what we are told or what we know (if we really know something) about parenting. I read it on Kindle, but I plan to keep a physical copy of this book with me. It is one of those books.
I feel this is a book to be revisited as per one's understanding, for you are not the same person when you read this book the next time.
Self help, positive thinking and other modern day's in vogue jargon have been shown their true picture in this eye opening book by Kapil Gupta. Do consider picking this book, if you have the curiosity about knowing yourself and have been exploring something about it for a while. Otherwise, it would not make sense for the reader.
The chapter on Parenting has given a 180 degree perception about what we are told or what we know (if we really know something) about parenting. I read it on Kindle, but I plan to keep a physical copy of this book with me. It is one of those books.
February 27, 2023
It is said that Alexander The Great once met an Indian sage who asked him, “Alexander, what if you were walking in the desert, dying of thirst, and I had a bottle of water? What would you be prepared to give me for that bottle of water?” To which Alexander replied, “I would be willing to give half my kingdom for that bottle of water.” The Indian sage said, “What if that deal was not acceptable to me?” Alexander said, “Then I would be willing to give you my entire kingdom.” The Indian sage replied, “You are a very silly man. Devoting your entire life to waging wars and conquering lands. All for a bottle of water.” We are even sillier than Alexander. For at least Alexander had a life-and-death excuse for craving the bottle of water.
April 26, 2016
A priceless and seminal work , a book that is hard, yet true.
This book is a must read for all humans trying to figure out how to make sense of their lives in an otherwise complicated world laden with conflicting messages, magical promises and spiritual fixes..
Dr. GuptA unveils the simplicity that is needed to find what most seek, a sense of peace and bliss.
I strongly recommend this book.
This book is a must read for all humans trying to figure out how to make sense of their lives in an otherwise complicated world laden with conflicting messages, magical promises and spiritual fixes..
Dr. GuptA unveils the simplicity that is needed to find what most seek, a sense of peace and bliss.
I strongly recommend this book.
November 6, 2024
It is a book filled with dangerously raw phrases. It can reach down the concrete of your dogmas and principles about life.
From another side, an excellent book for those who want to truly live this life. Become your own God, as he puts accurately.
There is still an aftertaste that I am not able to describe, and will need to go back to highlights from time to time to digest it.
Recommended, but for those ready to transform, not change.
From another side, an excellent book for those who want to truly live this life. Become your own God, as he puts accurately.
There is still an aftertaste that I am not able to describe, and will need to go back to highlights from time to time to digest it.
Recommended, but for those ready to transform, not change.
July 1, 2020
Honestly I don't even know. Most likely requires an additional reading. But not now or next week or month, more like in 10-20 years.
I observed a very interesting phenomena. I read this book in 2 different states. My normal day to day normal state, and in this case a lot of things he mentioned would raise feelings of deep anger
And I also had the opportunity to read it 2 times while being sleep deprived and angry because life happenings. Weird enough when I read it in this state, I was not angry anymore, instead it seemed to make more sense and I felt motivated.
There are some great parts and metaphors and while there are also a lot of parts with which I do not agree, I still think its an ok book, maybe this is just my "now" perception over certain things and values
I observed a very interesting phenomena. I read this book in 2 different states. My normal day to day normal state, and in this case a lot of things he mentioned would raise feelings of deep anger
And I also had the opportunity to read it 2 times while being sleep deprived and angry because life happenings. Weird enough when I read it in this state, I was not angry anymore, instead it seemed to make more sense and I felt motivated.
There are some great parts and metaphors and while there are also a lot of parts with which I do not agree, I still think its an ok book, maybe this is just my "now" perception over certain things and values
February 13, 2023
A self-help book that says self-help is overrated! Atmamun is written as a note to the average human to find the solace in life by being detached from one's mind, body and all the baggage that comes with it. It preaches that to become the human being you’ve always wanted to be, you must be willing to walk away from the human being you’ve become. It talks about how children live a life closer to bliss, than adults ever will - because we carry on our shoulders all the worries of the world and translate that over to our children for them to turn into adults. The idea of Atmamun is radical at the least, and life-changing at best - it's a great mirror to hold up to yourself and ask introspective questions to reflect.
September 25, 2023
This book needs to be in School/University Libraries. I have never reread any book, and I will definitely reread this one.
I won't go into the contents of this book. You would only be ready for this book, once you have understood that the charades of the world has no place in your life.
PS : Donated a copy to a library.
I won't go into the contents of this book. You would only be ready for this book, once you have understood that the charades of the world has no place in your life.
PS : Donated a copy to a library.
February 18, 2023
I first listened to Kapil Gupta in Naval Ravikant's podcast, and I liked what he said. So I decided to read one of his books. It's a bit similar to Anthony de Mello and Michael Singer. It's basically the same teachings in different words, in a different style.
June 12, 2020
One that definitely falls into my "read again" pile. In fact I've set it to be re-read again in 6 months.
Kapil Gutpa has a refreshingly new take on life and one cannot help but intuitively feel one has come into the presence of a truth teller.
Coming to this book at a hard time in my life has probably contributed to how I've received the message in the book, so in a way I may be a bit biased. The central idea behind Atmamun is to be mindless and opposed to mindful. It ties in partially with the idea of flow, but is much, much deeper.
Ideas such as the average life is one of pain and misery and will continue to be so are nicely explained, and although Gupta is not a fan of "prescriptions", I do feel that you come away from the book with something of a prescription for how to get out of the rat race.
Having felt the benefits of meditation, it was a bit shocking to find out Gupta felt 'traditional' meditation was nothing but a scam. It later becomes clear that the main benefit of meditation comes during the period of meditation and that what we should instead strive for is to be meditative i.e everything we do should be meditative.
The whole premise of Atmamum is to be able to fully experience everything around you without thinking about. Basically "the doer must disappear for the masterpiece to appear".
A book I highly recommend, but be warned, the ideas are so deep, you'll have to come back to it over and over again to get the full benefit.
Kapil Gutpa has a refreshingly new take on life and one cannot help but intuitively feel one has come into the presence of a truth teller.
Coming to this book at a hard time in my life has probably contributed to how I've received the message in the book, so in a way I may be a bit biased. The central idea behind Atmamun is to be mindless and opposed to mindful. It ties in partially with the idea of flow, but is much, much deeper.
Ideas such as the average life is one of pain and misery and will continue to be so are nicely explained, and although Gupta is not a fan of "prescriptions", I do feel that you come away from the book with something of a prescription for how to get out of the rat race.
Having felt the benefits of meditation, it was a bit shocking to find out Gupta felt 'traditional' meditation was nothing but a scam. It later becomes clear that the main benefit of meditation comes during the period of meditation and that what we should instead strive for is to be meditative i.e everything we do should be meditative.
The whole premise of Atmamum is to be able to fully experience everything around you without thinking about. Basically "the doer must disappear for the masterpiece to appear".
A book I highly recommend, but be warned, the ideas are so deep, you'll have to come back to it over and over again to get the full benefit.
January 7, 2023
This book is full of shit. I fell into the trap after seeing this recommended by many 'influencers' in India. It just regurgitates the practices of Buddhahood in an 'in-your-face' format. The author comes across as a person who is full of oneself.
This book will leave all the more confused. I would recommend reading Eknath Easwaran, and the Bhagavad Gita instead and learn from the source instead of fancy versions
After reading 50% of the book, I found no connection to Himalayan yogis, it's just a click-bait title.
Not to mention the fact that the author is not to be found anywhere on the internet. He's a mysterical person doling out advice.
This book will leave all the more confused. I would recommend reading Eknath Easwaran, and the Bhagavad Gita instead and learn from the source instead of fancy versions
After reading 50% of the book, I found no connection to Himalayan yogis, it's just a click-bait title.
Not to mention the fact that the author is not to be found anywhere on the internet. He's a mysterical person doling out advice.
May 28, 2021
I've found Kapil through Naval podcasts and I knew there will be no spirituality bs like in most books. And still.. it's The only book so far in the past 2 years where after finishing realised I marked too little wisdom quotes and will have to re-read and immerse myself deeper the 2nd time..and probably will have to come back a few more times for this short but straight to the point and dense book about what's the freedom of self really is. The book is not a guide, no how-to's, no steps. It's more of a firm push to finally ask yourself uncomfortable questions.
February 15, 2023
I read this a month and a half ago and already not much has stayed with me. Some parts felt insightful, but overall the book didn't do much for me. The book claims that if you are a true seeker, you will find your own path: in that sense there isn't an actionable path that the book offers.
June 13, 2024
This book will very likely change you. Your outlook on your life, your mind and you. It contains a lot of raw truths that you have always been avoiding. It's message is not destined for everyone, only for those want the freedom of a living god.
September 25, 2018
Loved this. Insightful writing even for things I've heard for more than a decade. Really hit home
July 8, 2021
Only a few are ready for what this book holds. I personally enjoyed the chapter on raising kids. I am pretty sure I am going to reread it a few years down the line.
November 1, 2022
The only merit of the author is to question everything. But the answers are so disconnected from the reality of the world, these answers lack structure and do not provide an actual rationale.
June 25, 2024
Kapil Gupta’s Atmamun: The Path To Achieving is a thought-provoking journey that challenges your core beliefs, thought processes, and perceptions of reality. This book is difficult to classify; it transcends typical genres such as self-help, spirituality, psychology, or ancient wisdom. Instead, it embarks on a profound exploration of self-discovery, much like the teachings of Osho.
Atmamun emphasizes experiencing life in its most natural form, unfiltered and without barriers. Gupta encourages readers to detach from their possessions and attachments to achieve true fulfillment and inner peace. The book's central message revolves around understanding the transient nature of life and the importance of inner transformation over superficial change.
Gupta's writing is both enlightening and challenging. He pushes readers to question their emotional responses, internal conflicts, and the illusions of abundance and time. The book provides a fresh perspective on living a life of serenity and fulfillment by becoming detached and embracing the natural flow of existence.
Whether you're a working professional or a spiritual seeker, Atmamun offers valuable insights into understanding life as it is. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper, more authentic connection with themselves and the world around them.
Atmamun is not just a book; it’s a guide to knowing thyself. It’s a transformative journey that, once embarked upon, leaves a lasting impact on your soul. Highly recommended for those ready to break free from societal norms and embrace the true essence of life.
Atmamun emphasizes experiencing life in its most natural form, unfiltered and without barriers. Gupta encourages readers to detach from their possessions and attachments to achieve true fulfillment and inner peace. The book's central message revolves around understanding the transient nature of life and the importance of inner transformation over superficial change.
Gupta's writing is both enlightening and challenging. He pushes readers to question their emotional responses, internal conflicts, and the illusions of abundance and time. The book provides a fresh perspective on living a life of serenity and fulfillment by becoming detached and embracing the natural flow of existence.
Whether you're a working professional or a spiritual seeker, Atmamun offers valuable insights into understanding life as it is. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper, more authentic connection with themselves and the world around them.
Atmamun is not just a book; it’s a guide to knowing thyself. It’s a transformative journey that, once embarked upon, leaves a lasting impact on your soul. Highly recommended for those ready to break free from societal norms and embrace the true essence of life.
May 26, 2019
With all due respect to the author , this book seems to be a lot easier and digestible for those who are looking to quickly understand how our mind works but the buck stops there . What this book may not make you aware is the depth of the consciousness we all crave for or do we :) . There are far greater subjects like Jiddu and our very own modern monk as I call him , Sarvapriya nanda swamiji of Ramakrishna mutt who have researched extensively on the subject of Life and duality . But for a starter , this author gives a recipe which can help understand the impact of mind quicker . But would It help to create a transformational journey within myself - I highly doubt . The subject of consciousness requires a far greater explanation which this book lacks to connect with . In any case , I must admit that a sincere attempt has been made to simplify the understanding of the mind and its role .To that extent - I would recommend for a quick read !
January 27, 2023
This is one for the re-read section in my library.
The book is for a true seeker of bliss and not the one who is looking for a quick fix. We are a slave to our MINDS and wander everywhere on topics which concerns or doesn’t concern YOU. The author wants us to distinguish between our MIND and OURSELVES.
He encourages us not to think of GOD as an insurance policy and discover your relationship with him. Man’s greatest asset is his LIFE and not the one he creates, not the life he hopes for, not the life he strives for. That’s the life that existed before the life he attempted to create.
Essentially, the man can embrace true bliss is he accepts DEATH. As soon as he believes in death, he starts to embrace life. He who believes in tomorrow will have no value for today. If we accept that we can die tomorrow everything would immediately fall into perspective and the insignificant elements would immediately drop away.
The book is for a true seeker of bliss and not the one who is looking for a quick fix. We are a slave to our MINDS and wander everywhere on topics which concerns or doesn’t concern YOU. The author wants us to distinguish between our MIND and OURSELVES.
He encourages us not to think of GOD as an insurance policy and discover your relationship with him. Man’s greatest asset is his LIFE and not the one he creates, not the life he hopes for, not the life he strives for. That’s the life that existed before the life he attempted to create.
Essentially, the man can embrace true bliss is he accepts DEATH. As soon as he believes in death, he starts to embrace life. He who believes in tomorrow will have no value for today. If we accept that we can die tomorrow everything would immediately fall into perspective and the insignificant elements would immediately drop away.
April 6, 2021
Relatively insightful essays on Truth.
Recommended for the spiritual seekers.
There is pain and risk in asking real questions. Intellectualization is risk-free.
If there is a being who, in your estimation, has the power to give you all that you seek, why would you settle for his good graces? Why would you sit with a begging bowl before him? Wouldn’t you want what he has?
Man is a king. But he believes that he is a beggar who must work toward becoming a king. And because he believes this, he lives his entire life as a beggar.
Rather than finding the thing that you can imagine yourself becoming, find the thing that you simply cannot imagine yourself Not Becoming.
How can a man be willing to lose everything? When he realizes that all that he has is not what he has truly been seeking. And when he realizes this, it immediately becomes okay to lose it.
Recommended for the spiritual seekers.
There is pain and risk in asking real questions. Intellectualization is risk-free.
If there is a being who, in your estimation, has the power to give you all that you seek, why would you settle for his good graces? Why would you sit with a begging bowl before him? Wouldn’t you want what he has?
Man is a king. But he believes that he is a beggar who must work toward becoming a king. And because he believes this, he lives his entire life as a beggar.
Rather than finding the thing that you can imagine yourself becoming, find the thing that you simply cannot imagine yourself Not Becoming.
How can a man be willing to lose everything? When he realizes that all that he has is not what he has truly been seeking. And when he realizes this, it immediately becomes okay to lose it.
October 15, 2023
Atmamun is not only a spiritual guide, but a philosophical reflection, which forces us to look within. It is about self-discovery and self-awareness through the idea of "mindlessness". The book is full of contrarian ideas and author has presented them in a hard-hitting manner. Though, a significant of those are hard to digest. Not an easy read, for sure. The book talks a lot around the ideas, but there are not many actionable steps to take from, which is something I am not a big fan of. But certainly, there are some of the ideas which help to change our perspective. Hence, a hard to digest, but a good read. On to the next read, "Direct Truth" by the same author :-)
This quote sums up the book's theme:
"There is simply no greater enslavement in the history of man, than man's enslavement to his own mind."
This quote sums up the book's theme:
"There is simply no greater enslavement in the history of man, than man's enslavement to his own mind."
July 15, 2024
A short and inspirational book that drives deeper into why a life of no attachment provides freedom. The book teases solutions to feeling free; points to the threat of death as a reminder to focus on what is important - makes sure you let go of your ego to make rapid progress, tells you to focus on what makes you flow rather than what society expects of you.
The book stipulates that I need to let go of the persona of today, accept that today may be my last, and let go of happiness and sadness... Sounds like purpose is also overrated by the author.
If anything it's to Just Do It. Silencing your Mind and Distancing from the bickering and noise, not just by meditating 20min every day - but being meditative. Reach Equanimity. The faster we reach the destination of Equanimity or Bliss, the faster we can focus on being the best of our trade.
The book stipulates that I need to let go of the persona of today, accept that today may be my last, and let go of happiness and sadness... Sounds like purpose is also overrated by the author.
If anything it's to Just Do It. Silencing your Mind and Distancing from the bickering and noise, not just by meditating 20min every day - but being meditative. Reach Equanimity. The faster we reach the destination of Equanimity or Bliss, the faster we can focus on being the best of our trade.
January 19, 2024
Modern reminder of ancient wisdom. The book talks at length about spiritual dimension of our being. The author ruthlessly reminds us to be more than just an aggregate of flesh and desires- 'Spinal Cord existence'- the term he refers to. He discuss his theme of bliss on many fronts- relationships, profession, psychology, philosophy etc. and advises some already known yet seldom practised ideas. In the end, he emphasises on inner peace which is independent of outer materialism and is so simple that it can be achieved anytime and anywhere. Easier said than done, in my viewpoint, such blissfulness is gathered only after a long haul of restrain, discipline and willpower. My biggest takeaway from the book- You are not your thoughts.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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