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Mindfulness in Plain English
224 pages, 2011
Written for those without any meditation background, but also an essential handbook for established students, Mindfulness in Plain English is a must-have for anyone exploring the benefits of Buddhist meditation.
This expanded edition includes the complete text of its predecessor along with a new chapter on cultivating loving kindness, an especially important topic in today’s world. For anyone who is new to meditation, this is a great resource for learning how to live a more productive and peaceful life.
In 'Mindfulness in Plain English', Henepola Gunaratana explains that mindfulness is about being fully aware of what's happening in the present moment, without any judgement. It's about observing your thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them. This is a key concept that you'll explore throughout the book.
Gunaratana emphasizes the importance of meditation in achieving mindfulness. He guides you on how to meditate, starting from the basics like finding a quiet place and focusing on your breath. You'll find that meditation is not as daunting as it may seem, and it's a practice you can incorporate into your daily routine.
Distractions are a part of life, but they don't have to derail your mindfulness practice. The author provides practical tips on how to handle distractions during meditation. He suggests observing them without reacting, and then gently bringing your focus back to your breath. This is a useful skill not just in meditation, but in everyday life as well.
Mindfulness in Plain English doesn't just tell you how to practice mindfulness, it also shows you why it's beneficial. According to Gunaratana, mindfulness can help reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance your overall well-being. If you're looking for ways to improve your mental health, you might want to check this book out.
The journey to mindfulness is not a quick fix, but a lifelong practice. The author encourages you to be patient with yourself and to keep practicing, even when it's challenging. By the end of the book, you'll see that mindfulness is not just a technique, but a way of life.