THE MYSTICAL SIDE OF LIFE

The “metanormal” abilities and experiences of saints and yogis are accessible to all of us, says Michael Murphy--and the first step is a simple one. Any activity that requires sustained vigilance, such as running, piloting or golf, causes a subtle sensory deprivation that appears to evoke mystical states of mind. “Metanormality breaks out in us all,” says Murphy, “because it’s our basic inclination. Human beings are tilted toward new dimensions; we are meant for this adventure of unfoldment. It’s the most powerful beat in the world.” Describing the genius of golf masters as well as athletic genius in its particulars, he tells us how “sport--and ultimately all human activity--has the capacity to become a yoga, a transformative practice.”