how to access your self-your body and your mind; how to still your restless mind so that you can become in touch with how you are feeling, both physically and emotionally. It is an invaluable tool that you can read again and again whenever you need reminding to be mindful and aware of where you are in the present.

the very practical explanations, advice and examples that are given of how the practice of mindfulness can help you use your mind to help you reach health.

the fact that the chapters do not really flow into one another. It made it difficult for me to read the book as a whole, but perhaps it is not meant to be read this way, but used as a reference book and dipped into whenever one feels the need.

write to the author to thank him for the great service he has rendered to very many people who have become out of touch with themselves in our fast-paced noisy and busy society.

that there is hope for a better way of life for us all if we only can become more aware of the little pieces of our daily life, that really and truly constitute this short existence that we run through so quickly and so blindly in our urge to get somewhere when, in fact, we are already there.

is a scientific researcher who has developed a Stress Reduction program at the University of Massachusetts Medical School which has helped thousands of patients. Thanks to his book which is supplemented by a series of tapes that can be ordered, many other people can also benefit from this system of living.

as writers, we have a duty to be more mindful of everything and everyone around us in order to master our craft. We can learn much by stilling our mind and focusing on our inner selves, for by knowing ourselves better, we will be able to write works of more depth, perception and honesty.

it can be difficult to follow sequentially.

Dr. Kabat-Zinn has in the past offered training courses and some individuals who have followed this course, offer Stress Reduction and Mindulness courses in 8 week sessions. These can be useful as the group offers support in the development of the practice. Nevertheless, many people who do not have the money, who work shifts, or who are at home with children or disabled could all benefit from reading his books and with the benefit of tapes can teach themselves this practice. I found the tape for the body scan and meditations useful, but the yoga tapes are poorly recorded and the directions are hard to follow. Better to take a yoga class instead, if you can. This book and the practice have provided me with a lifetime tool to develop and use my own inner resources to face whatever tragedies, challenges disappointments and hopes life may hold for me. I hope that some of you may benefit as much as I have. May it give its gift to you day by day.

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Created May 11, 2003 at 10:07pm • Submit your own review...