A Playful Spirit

Exploring the Theology, Philosophy, and Psychology of Play

Mark W. Teismann, Lynn Weber

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English

Lexington Books
22 August 2022

Philosophy of religion; Buddhism; Spirituality & religious experience; Counselling & advice services; Psychotherapy

The great narratives of religion and nationhood were battered in the twentieth century by the dual forces of globalization and postmodernism. In the uncertainty of broken traditions, many people looking for God retreated into a regressive fundamentalism, and others abandoned themselves to nihilism and cynicism. But is there another way?

In this volume, esteemed sociologist and therapist Mark W. Teismann offers a fresh approach to spiritual pursuits, one that neither relies upon absolutes nor leaves seekers in a void of disbelief. This approach is to consider the exercise of spirituality as a type of play.

Teismann takes the reader on a whirlwind ride through the different aspects of play and how they relate to spirituality. Teismann draws on classical philosophers, memories of childhood, developmental science, poets, and his long career as a psychotherapist to create a deep understanding of how the spirit of play informs our moral pursuits and spiritual yearnings.

A conclusion and epilogue summarize the book’s tenets and touch on Mark Teismann’s battle with cancer and how the practices of meditation and play accompanied him on his spiritual journey in the context of an incurable disease. The book’s appendix gives interested readers a detailed description of how to approach the practice of meditation.

By: Mark W. Teismann
With: Lynn Weber
Imprint: Lexington Books
Country of Publication: United States
Dimensions: Height: 230mm, Width: 156mm, Spine: 13mm
Weight: 259g
ISBN: 9781793618436
ISBN 10: 1793618437
Pages: 174
Publication Date: 22 August 2022
Audience: Professional and scholarly , Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Preface, Lynn Weber Introduction 1Everyday Play 2Possibility Play 3Dark Play 4Flanking Play 5Bright Play 6Meditation—The Ultimate Play 7Conclusion 8Epilogue: The Final Hole Appendix: How to Meditate Bibliography Index About the Author

Mark W. Teismann taught at Northern Illinois University, where he was a professor, founder of the training program in family and marital therapy, and director of the Family Center. Lynn Weber is a writer, editor, and book reviewer.