8 keys to practicing mindfulness Practical strategies for emotional health and well-being

Reed, who codirects the Hakomi Institute of California, shows that she can serve as an excellent mindfulness coach through text as well as by teaching in person. Providing clear explanations of both practice and research-based aspects of this mental-health-enabling therapy, she guides readers gently forward through meeting the present moment, learning to slow down enough to engage with both bodily sensations and emotional chatter, coping with difficulties, and continuing to rediscover inner calm. Although there are many books and other media offering advice on mindfulness practice, this stands out as firmly anchored to clinical practice as well as being illuminated by the helpful use of anecdotes that don't overwhelm the reader here for practical direction. Chapters are developmentally arranged, with exercises incorporated to move passive reading into action all along the way. This will be a good starting point for many readers.--Goldsmith, Francisca Copyright 2015 Booklist