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Mon-Thu. 11:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
Fri-Sat. 11:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.
Sun. 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
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Love, love, love this place! I attend their events/classes several times a week and they're always very informative and inspiring.
Also, kudos for having great employees that let you just wander around the store without being bothered. Thank you East West!
I've been here a few times and its awesome. The employees and staff are very nice, welcoming and helpful.
Whenever I come here I buy candles, candle holders, gems and incense. I bought my Tarot cards here too.
I love this store, whever i'm in Downtown Mountain View i have to come here.
Okay, I admit it, I'm a little too terra firma for this place!
BUT, they have fabulous earrings and a lovely selection of aromatherapy lotions, oils, and bath products, all of which are perfect gifts (especially if you have any girlfriends going through chemo).
I love this place ! I don't get down to the area often, but when I do, I always stop by, and always end up spending money !! I love the books, music, clothes, Buddhist statues and all of the other wonderful spiritual gifts and items there. The only drawback for me is the people behind the counter - for a spiritual store, they sure are an unfriendly lot. Will definitely return each chance I get.
Perfect place to go to get your Zen on.
I went on a meditation retreat about six months ago, and ever since, I've been sitting on random pillows. One of those things I've meant to get, but never quite got around to it.
Sort of stumbled in here. I was walking down Castro street, and it kind of beckoned to me. Neat trick - I wonder how they do that. So I went in, and my blood pressure instantly fell by about five points. I'm not really all that new agey, but there were definitely a few things I wanted. Ended up spending a lot more than I planned for the cushion, but hey, my butt deserves the best.
Overall, I would stop in here if you're into this sort of stuff.
s e r e n i t y
This is the word I felt the minute I stepped in here. Now, mind you that I'm not a New Agey type of person but the staff here are totally not and left me to my own devices. My good friend and I had just finished a lovely Friday evening meal at the restaurant across the street and he wanted to run in here to purchase a back massager.
He ran into someone he knew, so while they were chatting it up, I snuck away to the CD area to find a fave Putumayo brand recording. I love the idea of being able to try out the demo cds by yourself in cd players all lined up on the counter. Trusting.
I found my cd and just when I was going to purchase it, received another call that my other friend was waiting for me at the gelateria. Darn!
Just means I need to go back so I can get my cd!
I did not peruse the entire store, but they were also well stocked with books.
My experience with East West Bookstore was very unpleasant. My reading with Destiny started 20 minutes late. I have been to numerous psychics in the Bay Area and this experience ranks among the worst. The reading itself was a huge disappointment. I was hoping for some insight on a situation with my career and it was 30 minutes of nothing for what I think is a steep price even for a good reading - $65. Not much insight to be had. I could have done about the same reading myself and I am not psychic.
At the end of the reading Destiny escorted me to the front cashier where I wanted to use my ATM card. They informed me that there would be a 5% charge added for use of the card. THIS IS ILLEGAL and there was no sign posted warning about the charge. Well, why would they publicly display an illegal practice, so I see why there was no sign, but it left me with no choice but to pay extra for nothing on top of the wasted money on the reading. They said I could go to the ATM next door and get cash, which is what I opted to do, though it also cost me just about 5% to get cash from a non-bank ATM. On principle I'd opted to give the money to the establishment next door. Destiny followed me to the ATM next door, like I was going to skip out on the bill. It was not a good feeling.
I had plans to shop around after the reading but I was so angry at the way i'd been treated that I left immediately.
All in all this experience left a bad taste in my mouth and I will not be back.
FInally had occasion to go inside this store. Wish I had done so along time ago!
I got tired of looking in bookstore after bookstore for children's books on spirituality- no more! I will go only here.
They have an amazing array of books, gifts and devotional items from every imaginable spiritual tradition and arranged in a pleasing, though jam packed setting. Someone definately fung shui'd this place! I could spend hours and hours there.
The 5 year old was mesmorized by the meditation and "event" room. Couldn't get her out of there.
I can't wait to go back.
The only thing that kept it from being 5 stars was the incense. None of it was burning, but much of it was not all natural and thus I got a headache, but the pleathora of good-for-my-soul other things will make the headache worth another visit!
I discovered this store while window shopping on Castro St. I was very impressed with the wide selection of religious products. Religions of all kinds were acknowledged at this store. Everything seemed so tranquil in here. I felt really relaxed and calm. They had a water fountain in the middle of the store that you could meditate and there was really peaceful music playing in the background throughout the store. I loved all the things they sold here. You'll find everything: yoga stuff, books and magazines, jewelry, chimes, aromatherapy products, music and videos, greeting cards, and so much more! I spent a good 2 hours the first time I came here! I don't usually buy cds, but the song that they were playing at the store really caught my attention. So I ended up buying a $13 cd called "Spiritual Piano." It was totally worth it.
I'm so glad I ran into this place. I will come here again and again!
Ah, what a change from the vanilla Border, Barnes and Noble, etc.
Some weird stuff, but also some serious eastern literature. This is also a great place for resources all thing eastern, mystic, esoteric. Not just for books, but also for yoga classes, etc.
There were more places like this years ago, but not so may now.
It's also a good place to meet fellow Earthlings of the same mind.
I think this is the place that used to be on El Camino Real years ago.
I absolutely love this store! I feel a sense of peace and serenity just walking through here. It's clean, smells great, and the staff is very friendly and helpful. They have an abundance of religious, spiritual, self-help, mystic, and astrology books, CD's, DVD's, and gifts. Actually quite overwhelming! I've spent many hours in the store and still haven't been able to experience half of what they have :) They also offer free lectures and events. Definitely a cool place to visit!
Geri
If you are serious and passionate about spirituality, East West is the fountain of pointers. The entire store is all about books based around meditation, yoga, every religion you can think of and more, etc. There is also huge selection of spiritual music, incense, candles, gems, beads, yoga mats, and various little things. It seems almost every evening there is an event from a spiritual teacher or book author as well, most events are free.
I love this store so much! Everytime I'm in the area, I try to make it a point to visit. The staff is helpful, while letting their customers roam in peace.
Not only does it have great books, jewelry and other accessories, but there are water fountains around the store - which create a relaxing - open environment.
I discovered the Thymes: Kimono Rose Collection here and various books that weren't avaliable else where.
Great unpretentious new age store.
We went and saw the Tibetan monks there years
ago when they were making their Chenrizig sand
mandala.
I'm in trouble now: I am in serious like with this place.
I just kinda wandered in while window shopping and the next hour or more was just a blur of books, harmonious music, tapes, DVD & CDs [some for rent], water fountains, chimes, herbal this and herbal that, Chi, lotions, meditation stuff and an open sweet relaxing energy that permeated the place.
Honestly: it had me wanting to sit down on the floor and start OHMMMMMMinng in a full-lotus position. (I'm sure that would have hurt the next day...)
Even the cashier sounded blissed-out and hyper-mellow.
It made me rethink what I wanted from life--my life. You cannot be surrounded with that much ancient wisdom and sage advice (and sage sticks too) to not help but thinking how much this should become at least a part of your life.
Certainly one of the coolest book-stores in recent memory.
this place is so relaxing! once you step in, you get a peaceful vibe, maybe its the giant fountain in the back. either way, youre going to leave this "bookstore" a lot calmer. its pretty legit as far as i know. its filled with books, cd, ethnic clothing, jewelry etc that have to do with spirits, healing, ghosts, etc. theres also a nice smelling selection of incense.
they even have a cd titled "peaceful songs for pets and horses"? LOL yea i listened to the sample, and it sounded like regular music to me. they also have a kids section with books that teach kids about dying.....thers also a separate meditation room in the back with rugs on the floor.
its very interesting walking up and down these isles, there are sooo many topics and stuff to learn about. this is the perfect spot to stop by when you're waiting for your table at some restaurant in downtown mountain view HAHA.
Love this place. I spend hours in here! They have a great selection of stuff and keep adding to it!
I like that they don't harass you either. you can sit by the fountain or in the book sections and just read and it's so calming. I've had readings there too. good selection of Psychics and other therapists. I saw Torah again today, she is one of the best!
The East West Bookstore has a very touching history. And they have a lot of discussions for those that are interested in the new age, and Hinduism stuff. I went here this past week for a discussion. The speaker was just ok-- and I'd highly recommend knowing more about Hinduism or the topic that they are discussing prior to attending one of their events. OH! I'd like to mention too, that summer time they will have Yogananda's direct disciple (also the founder of East west and ananda's book store) visiting east west in mountain view. So for those of you interested, and want to meet this man, keep a look out! I'm definitely going to be there!
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Unusual gifts.NAH...cool and interesting stuff is more like it. I like that they offer free seminars and events revolving around Goddess, divine, loving yourself, being happy...etc
I am particularly fond of the children's book section, candles, and "knick-knacks." Side note...the are in the back...with the chimes, Buddha, and water fountain is very relaxing. It's a king of "close your eyes and say ahhhhh" type of a moment .
side note~ I will try the yoga class on Wednesdays...it 's only $12 per class.
The place smells. It's not a bad thing, sometimes, but you walk in and are greeted with some form of aroma that is being places into the air on purpuse and you wonder why it's hitting you like this. I've been in there and smelt insence coming from a sensor and while I didn't hate the smell, I think I disapproved.
The place is a far cry from the old Psychic Eye Bookstore, where I would spend long lunches reading the Conspiracy section. The selection of book is interesting. I've found a number of things that I've been looking for, and even a few things that I wouldn't normally think of looking at that I've picked up. and enjoyed. Standing around the store, that is.
The selection of Tarot decks was impressive the first couple of times I went, but seems to have dwindled somewhat. The CD and DVD selection is good. The prices are a tad bit high, but I expect that for this kidn of stuff.
Love this store. I wouldn't really call it a 'bookstore' though. They do have books, mostly on spiritual subjects. It is more like an ethnic store. They sell Putumayo CDs, incenses, ethnic clothes, jewelry, and lots of other unique stuff.
Everytime I went in there, I walked out with different kind of things. A unique pendant, an Indian type purple top, a Kanji inspired wall art, candle holders, etc.
Bottom line is: it is worth to visit! Especially it's located on Castro St, Mtn. View - where all good restaurants are! ;)
I only give 4 stars because I think they overpriced some of their stuff - and I can't recall this store ever had sale!
I love going to this store! The staff is always very nice and friendly. I don't get the reviews stating they are rude or snobbish. They have a huge selection and I can spend hours wandering around inside. Its getting harder and harder to find new age shops in the are and this one is one of the few. It is definately not cheap to shop here. At the same time it carries alot of things I cant find anywhere else locally and you can sit and read books for a long time.
I like this bookstore for the sheer eclectic nature of its existance. The fact that you have a place to explore any kind of alternative thought is a plus to me.
The staff is appropriately distant and gives the illusion of soulfulness and deep thoughts nicely. They seem to be very tolerant of all walks of life and don't really intrude in any way on the shopper.
They have some really nice smelling lotions and soaps - and pretty stationaries and statues too. The children's book section carries a delightful selection of alternative books (the hindu comics and the child's illustrated sufi type stuff) and they have a large selection of Yoga supplies.
The clothes are really pricey, and they don't offer any larger sized clothing ( darn you yogi-thin fasters!! ) for the abundant shoppers.
They also have a large selection of alternative music with options to preview it before hand and an array of thought-provoking videos for the inspirationally starved.
Overall, it fits the bill for the typical metaphysical store. Its hushed tones, nicely smelling and pretty interior do make you feel like you are a in a place where higher thoughts matter.
** edited to add they have a lot of cool classes and little lectures too, be sure to get on their mailing list
This is a real haven for people interested in spirituality and healing. This is a huge bookstore that feels like an oasis when I walk in the door. Very kind staffers, including many people who have been long-time meditators. Everyone seems very respectful of individual needs and interests - they really help you find what you are looking for. The bookstore is about half books and the other half is sacred art (statues, icons, paintings), music, clothing, jewelry, crystals, and gifts. If I need a lift to my spirits, this is a wonderful place to go.
Feeling the slightest bit unhappy or stressed? Come here! Just walking around here you will slowly but surely feel better and happier. Look for just one special thing that will help you and you will find it.
It's worthwhile to sit by the stunning water fountain and read a great book.
Best to you!
A regular bookshop focused on new Age, spiritual, metaphysical subject matter, with some gift items. Good selection of music to browse through (if you're looking for new agey, mellow instrumental stuff by contemporary, indie composers)--can sample some before you buy.
Patrons are mostly suburban, white, new age, spiritual, yoga, meditation, self-improvement type people. Not so much pagan, hippie, goth, vamp, voodoo or santeria. Low-key browsing atmosphere. Salespeople are not pushy and won't peddle things to you.
The East West Book Store is one of the coolest stores around! They have an interesting mix of products - books on a wide range of topics - religions and philosophy, mythology, metaphysics, health, healing, and so on. The music selection is an eclectic mix of sounds of nature, celtic, medieval, and renaissance music, native north american flute music, and other related musical genres.
I went in to buy some CDs by a Medieval musical group named Broceliande - I ended up buying several of their CDs.
They also carry a wide selection of other products: candles, oils, incense, tarot, stones, gems, jewelry, clothing, and other interesting new age kinds of stuff.
This fabulous local bookstore is a wonderful location for books, music, decorations, and related merchandise for all things related to spiritual topics, healing, human potential, and alternative everything. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the huge, beautiful, peaceful fountain with sacred statues is truly remarkable.
I will go in looking for a book on aromatherapy and also find one on Zen philosophy, plus some incense to burn and music to play while I read. A couple of very calm and rewarding hours can easily be spent here.
I have to give this place 5 stars because I feel it does what it sets out to accomplish, even if it's not exactly my thing. So if New Age books and stuff are your thing, you should shop here.
But seriously: A gummy bear Tarot deck? My mind doesn't open that big...
I LOVE this bookstore! I can spend an entire day in the store. It is very comfortable. There is a very serene area of the bookstore where there are buddhas and a big water fountain.... such a peaceful way to spend some time perusing through books.
I've been coming here for year. They have everything here! Their selection of CDs is amazing and you can listen to each one before buying it!! They also have a nice area for kids. They have a nice room for various events such as talks, concerts, psychic readings, etc. The bookstore is very inviting. The only thing that I wish they sold were posters for yoga or meditation.
This place is awesome! I forget that it's a bookstore as I've bought several small gadgets and gifts here but NEVER 1 book heh.
This is the perfect place to buy gifts for your mom, trust me. And (ok I'll admit) stuff for yourself too. I bought some head massage things and lavender filled sachets for my linen drawer and some soaps and stuff. Very cute and the vibe here is just so chill. I have gone here around 30 times and not once has someone bothered me "can I help you?". The staff lets you do your thing, walk around, chill..
This is an unusual shopping experience--if that's what you're seeking, you came to the right place. The book selection is endless. Learn how to communicate with your pet, with spirits, with pet spirits, and with Mother Earth.
They have a nice yoga and meditation department, all kinds of groovy incense and candles, and special earrings to increase your energy and creativity. Cool.
Namaste and go forth in peace my fellow yelpers.
I've been to East/West twice, and had two different experiences. The first time I was impressed with the selection of practically anything you could want in the realms of alternative thought, but was also a bit overwhelmed with the selection, and couldn't really find anything that I was looking for. Also, the staff appeared a bit distant--if not cold--and that put me off a bit. Perhaps it was because the store was busy, perhaps it was because my husband made a stupid joke within ear-shot of the cash register, but I wasn't getting the warm-fuzzies with anything, so I just left.
The next time I went in (by myself) it was a different experience. It was still busy (a Friday night), but the staff was more attentive, and I actually was able to make a few purchases. I appreciated the help the clerk gave me when I was obviously clueless about what exactly I needed, though there was still a sort-of "distant" aura around the sales team. I guess that's what is called for in a store like this, but I guess I just prefer smiles to soulful expressions. However, no-one is unfriendly, and the store is a virtual cornucopia of new-age delights, so I still would recommend it to the curious--or even those just just want to while away an hour or so looking at everything there is to see.
I could get lost in this store, spend a whole day going through their book selection. Their selection of books specialize in metaphysical, spiritual growth and awareness, alternative medicine, and self-help. They have a wonderful music selection that you an listen to before buying. There is an extensive selection of gifts, cards, jewelery, body lotions and scents, yoga and Pilates items. They have a nice fountain area for sitting and contemplation. It is a comfortable store where you are welcome to browse and look around. The staff is helpful in answering questions when asked.
The East West Bookshop offers lectures and workshops on subjects that offer individuals to deepen their inquiry on a variety of subjects - spirituality, development of intutiion, relationships, etc. There is a nominal fee to attend these workshops and a pre-registration is usually required.
This is a good place to explore after having dinner or going to the theater in downtown Mountain View.
I love this place for great cards and enlightening books. I have always found interesting books to read here that are spiritual and make me think. I am not into some of the new age stuff but love coming in and walking around. I have found great cards to give to friends.
Lately, I've been really into these spirituality shops. This one is so comprehensive, it's almost overwhelming. Luckily, they have a "Bestsellers" selection, but if you only have a topic in mind, be prepared to spend some time raking through the books. Which wouldn't be such a bad thing, if there weren't so many good ones! They should really tag which books they recommend or of special interest, like I've seen at other independent bookstores. It really aids customers in knowing which books come with an expert's opinion.
Beyond books, there's a myriad of things to look at. No sense in listing everything, other than there's really no sense in buying anything unless you know what it's good for. Great water fountain in the back with modest seating to read one of their many books. Prayer box as well, which is a nice touch.
So this place has an awesome selection that Moonfyre can't even come close to . Books, candles, incense, ect... There's seriously a whole section devoted to every aspect of metaphysical stuff you could possibly think of.
Honestly, though? The staff (while nice enough) doesn't quite seem to ..."fit' with the mood of the store. I don't know how to explain it; but the few times I've been there the people behind the register were just a little too loud for me. Come on; I'm trying to get my inner peace on!
Still an awesome place though. I go to Moonfyre more often because it's closer and I like the staff more.
If you have misplaced your spirituality then this is the place to be. Lots of pricey new age stuff.... I guess finding one's spirituality has a price.
Whats with the help? Most act like you are not as enlightened as they are therefore you are pretty much invisible. One word.... Karma.
The Speakers. Beware! Most of the speakers are there to promote their book, CD's, etc... And you have to pay for their pitch.
The Nut Shell:
Its clean, with lots of spacey supernatural stuff. Soothing for those with a need to find them selfs, that have $$$ to spend.
Very nice and high end new age store, with book signings, yoga classes, clothing, jewelry, water fountains, candles, tarot cards, crystals, aromatherapy and art. The place doesn't seem that large but it is filled with nice, high end items. Book authors come in to sign and speak about their books.
Parking in front and a lot in the back.
Great selection of books, from the metaphysical to self-help. They also have gift cards, childrens books, and a large selection of gifts/yoga stuff/jewelry. They also provide lectures.
I shop here quite a bit, but...it is a rare moment when the front staff doesn't seem nonchalant or out-of-it when you make a purchase. Often, feels unfriendly. But, the plus of this is that when you shop, you truly are left alone.
Los Gatos, CA
Category: Bookstores
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Palo Alto, CA
Category: Local Services
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Category: Jewelry
Mountain View, CA
Category: Bookstores
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