The problems we encounter in our everyday lives - from the midlife crisis to loneliness and the search for meaning - often seem to be phenomena only of the modern world. But they have been encountered and addressed by wise men and women for countless centuries. We are sitting on a treasure chest of teachings formulated by pioneers of human psychology, spirituality and emotional states. These teachings are more than relevant today. They might just be the most radical, effective and low-cost way of changing our lives positively.

The Power of Then applies the teachings of sages of the past and the lessons of their lives to the everyday problems - emotional, mental and spiritual - that continue to beset us. From the earthy example of the medieval housewife Margery Kempe (patron saint of the midlife crisis) to the original insights of the Swiss psychologist Carl Jung, James Bremner unlocks the wisdom of the past and applies it to the present. Written in a clear, engaging and personal style, the book is full of helpful guidance, encouragement and reflection, garnered from some of the greatest sages the world has known.