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You Are Not Your Thoughts: The Secret Magic of Mindfulness
We all wish to be more mindful, engaged, present, loving the life we are living, but is this possible and how? You Are Not Your The Secret Magic of Mindfulness makes the journey into a mindful way of being a profoundly simple one, both to understand and to access. It is a book for those who want to truly know the power of mindfulness to transform their experience of life. '...There are thousands of books out there to help us combat our inner self-destructive voice... if I could go back in time and read only one book on the subject, this is it.' Joe Pasquale, Comedian and Actor
104 pages, Paperback
First published November 30, 2018
27 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 6, 2018
"Thoughts are in your head, Feelings are in your body."
At only 104 pages, this book is a fast read about being mindful, meditating, and being present in one's life. What I liked is that the language is straight forward and in layman's terms. I don't think there is any new information presented, but this book does present the information in a very succinct way. Everything makes sense and each section of the book flows nicely into the next.
"Mindfulness is... the art of paying attention."
Many people talk about meditation, being mindful and for some that may be confusing. How does one meditate? What are the steps to letting go of repetitive thoughts, racing thoughts or to simply calm our minds? Being mindful and meditation is all the rage these days, but it has been around for a long, long time. I remember when I first starting hearing about meditation as a teenager, I asked someone I knew who meditated to describe meditation to me. His response was basically, that mediating was just that - meditation. Which led me to ask but how do you meditate? His response was you know, by meditating. UGH! You will not get his type of response in this book. Instead the author talks about counting the in and out breaths as a way of keeping you in the moment and not letting other thoughts in. It helps discipline the mind to focus on the present and just breathing rather than all the thoughts that pop into one's mind. This is one of the examples she gives in the book of being mindful and how to quiet your mind.
"Meditation helps you focus on the now so that this can then be carried through to the rest of your life. It sets you intention to be mindful and reminds us how refreshing this can be. Plus, it has many health benefits."
The Author does not get into the health benefits in this short book but focuses on thoughts and how we get used to thinking about certain things repeatedly. She encourages readers to deal with or face the events in our lives and not to spend too much time thinking about them.
This book has some great tips and exercises for those new to meditation and being mindful. For those who are more knowledgeable on the subject, this will reinforce what is already known. I like that the Author is to the point and does not rely on flowery language or repetition.
Thank you to John Hunt publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
At only 104 pages, this book is a fast read about being mindful, meditating, and being present in one's life. What I liked is that the language is straight forward and in layman's terms. I don't think there is any new information presented, but this book does present the information in a very succinct way. Everything makes sense and each section of the book flows nicely into the next.
"Mindfulness is... the art of paying attention."
Many people talk about meditation, being mindful and for some that may be confusing. How does one meditate? What are the steps to letting go of repetitive thoughts, racing thoughts or to simply calm our minds? Being mindful and meditation is all the rage these days, but it has been around for a long, long time. I remember when I first starting hearing about meditation as a teenager, I asked someone I knew who meditated to describe meditation to me. His response was basically, that mediating was just that - meditation. Which led me to ask but how do you meditate? His response was you know, by meditating. UGH! You will not get his type of response in this book. Instead the author talks about counting the in and out breaths as a way of keeping you in the moment and not letting other thoughts in. It helps discipline the mind to focus on the present and just breathing rather than all the thoughts that pop into one's mind. This is one of the examples she gives in the book of being mindful and how to quiet your mind.
"Meditation helps you focus on the now so that this can then be carried through to the rest of your life. It sets you intention to be mindful and reminds us how refreshing this can be. Plus, it has many health benefits."
The Author does not get into the health benefits in this short book but focuses on thoughts and how we get used to thinking about certain things repeatedly. She encourages readers to deal with or face the events in our lives and not to spend too much time thinking about them.
This book has some great tips and exercises for those new to meditation and being mindful. For those who are more knowledgeable on the subject, this will reinforce what is already known. I like that the Author is to the point and does not rely on flowery language or repetition.
Thank you to John Hunt publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
November 15, 2018
Recently I was told that my negative thoughts were killing me and that because I was thinking so much about getting old, I actually was creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. Hmmm... At first I was quite angry. I like to think of myself as more forward thinking than they were suggesting. But then I realized that they were absolutely right! All of my life I have had nothing except negative thoughts about myself. The reason for this is myriad and complex but the causes are not the same as the solution. I had no idea how to change my thoughts which would, in turn, change my behavior. Then, several months ago this little gem popped up in my "to read" list. Am I ever glad that it did!
I understand all of the different beliefs and have had a semi-working knowledge of the ideas that are presented in You are Not Your Thoughts, including mindfulness, meditation, and more. I won't go into everything in the book, a lot of which is a very simplified of version of Buddhism - which is NOT a religion, I might add - but the exercises, the ideology behind the message of the book has helped me tremendously.
We live in a world that is too stressed, too obsessed, too over-the-top which permeates nearly every aspect of our waking moment. It is nice to learn how to step back, breathe deep and live in the moment. This is a super short book, a very quick read. I took time before writing this review so that I could actually put some of the suggestions into play, to see if it was all hocus-pocus or not. It wasn't. For me, it has been a real eye-opening, thoughtful experience, one that I hope you also will try.
Thank you to #Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read and experience this book.
I understand all of the different beliefs and have had a semi-working knowledge of the ideas that are presented in You are Not Your Thoughts, including mindfulness, meditation, and more. I won't go into everything in the book, a lot of which is a very simplified of version of Buddhism - which is NOT a religion, I might add - but the exercises, the ideology behind the message of the book has helped me tremendously.
We live in a world that is too stressed, too obsessed, too over-the-top which permeates nearly every aspect of our waking moment. It is nice to learn how to step back, breathe deep and live in the moment. This is a super short book, a very quick read. I took time before writing this review so that I could actually put some of the suggestions into play, to see if it was all hocus-pocus or not. It wasn't. For me, it has been a real eye-opening, thoughtful experience, one that I hope you also will try.
Thank you to #Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read and experience this book.
December 19, 2018
Many thanks to NetGalley, Frances Trussell and John Hunt Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are 100% my own and independent of receiving an advanced copy.
You are not your thoughts - what a concept. If I could do that, I’d be a happier little lamb! That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t aspire to higher thinking. Now I know, I know, this is not a new concept but it bears worth repeating, or reading, over and over again. I seriously dove into the mindfulness/meditation world around 6 years ago and have read, studied and practiced a ton. So, I was looking forward to reading a new voice. Frances Trussell is based out of London and is a mindfulness, meditation teacher among other things. She has a meditation podcast called The Mindfully Happy podcast and this is her first book. It is small - just over 100 pages. I have to say that everything she discusses is right on the money. She offers many gems, or words of wisdom. The first third of the book she talks about mindfulness with the last two thirds focusing on meditation.
This isn’t a trite book and it doesn’t come off all buzz wordy. She knows her stuff and brings up many important issues that can help us lead a better life. Her main topic is trying to quiet the voice in our head. You know, the one that talks to us all day long, reading from a script that was written a long time ago, that criticizes and beats us down. That voice stops us from being our true self. When it is talking we are either living in the past, or worrying about the future. The amazing thing is no one else knows what that voice is saying or believes it to be true. Only us! We probably won’t be able to totally get rid of it but if we can at least be aware and keep it quiet, all kinds of wonderful things open up to us. With awareness comes space that will allow us to be more true to ourselves. One of the ways of creating space is meditation. Trussell takes you through from a beginning meditation to more advanced ones, explaining the how to and the goal of each one so you can progress accordingly. She also provides links to her website and podcast so you can use these additional sources.
I think the meditation part she did better than the mindfulness. You can’t just throw out a whole but of platitudes and expect people to understand how to go about this very hard work. I would have rathered she focus on one thing with mindfulness and then go on to the meditation part. Like I said, everything she writes is true and important but without guidance I think most people will be lost. Certainly, if you are new to this, I don’t think this will offer any chance at lasting change, or even start you on the road properly. And I have a huge problem with that. I think it is irresponsible to sort of drop all of this stuff out there and not back it up. That’s how mindfulness gets all twisted up and distorted and people don’t really understand what to do with it. I don’t think that if even offers inspiration that will motivate newcomers to go off and learn more. Because I better understand what she is saying, I could nod and agree with it as I read along, but it didn’t help move me along in my practice either. So not for beginners, not for experienced. One thing she does say, which bears repeating, is that there is no wrong and trying is doing. Just by the act of thinking about your inner voice can make a shift. I would encourage anyone to explore this idea of “you are not your thoughts” because all it can do is add to your life in a positive way. She does a much better job with explaining the meditation. Probably because she teaches it, she is better able to break it down. For that alone, the book is worth it.
You are not your thoughts - what a concept. If I could do that, I’d be a happier little lamb! That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t aspire to higher thinking. Now I know, I know, this is not a new concept but it bears worth repeating, or reading, over and over again. I seriously dove into the mindfulness/meditation world around 6 years ago and have read, studied and practiced a ton. So, I was looking forward to reading a new voice. Frances Trussell is based out of London and is a mindfulness, meditation teacher among other things. She has a meditation podcast called The Mindfully Happy podcast and this is her first book. It is small - just over 100 pages. I have to say that everything she discusses is right on the money. She offers many gems, or words of wisdom. The first third of the book she talks about mindfulness with the last two thirds focusing on meditation.
This isn’t a trite book and it doesn’t come off all buzz wordy. She knows her stuff and brings up many important issues that can help us lead a better life. Her main topic is trying to quiet the voice in our head. You know, the one that talks to us all day long, reading from a script that was written a long time ago, that criticizes and beats us down. That voice stops us from being our true self. When it is talking we are either living in the past, or worrying about the future. The amazing thing is no one else knows what that voice is saying or believes it to be true. Only us! We probably won’t be able to totally get rid of it but if we can at least be aware and keep it quiet, all kinds of wonderful things open up to us. With awareness comes space that will allow us to be more true to ourselves. One of the ways of creating space is meditation. Trussell takes you through from a beginning meditation to more advanced ones, explaining the how to and the goal of each one so you can progress accordingly. She also provides links to her website and podcast so you can use these additional sources.
I think the meditation part she did better than the mindfulness. You can’t just throw out a whole but of platitudes and expect people to understand how to go about this very hard work. I would have rathered she focus on one thing with mindfulness and then go on to the meditation part. Like I said, everything she writes is true and important but without guidance I think most people will be lost. Certainly, if you are new to this, I don’t think this will offer any chance at lasting change, or even start you on the road properly. And I have a huge problem with that. I think it is irresponsible to sort of drop all of this stuff out there and not back it up. That’s how mindfulness gets all twisted up and distorted and people don’t really understand what to do with it. I don’t think that if even offers inspiration that will motivate newcomers to go off and learn more. Because I better understand what she is saying, I could nod and agree with it as I read along, but it didn’t help move me along in my practice either. So not for beginners, not for experienced. One thing she does say, which bears repeating, is that there is no wrong and trying is doing. Just by the act of thinking about your inner voice can make a shift. I would encourage anyone to explore this idea of “you are not your thoughts” because all it can do is add to your life in a positive way. She does a much better job with explaining the meditation. Probably because she teaches it, she is better able to break it down. For that alone, the book is worth it.
June 24, 2020
The first 20 pages of this were really interesting and I feel like I learned a lot from it. However, I felt like it became very repetitive and a little too basic for me. I would have preferred if there were more depth to it, as I have a basic understanding of meditation already. I feel like this is a COMPLETE beginner's guide, so it is not that interesting if you are familiar with meditation concepts already.
I feel like it would be better to simply use a guided meditation app to learn the same concepts that this book taught, but it's easier to put into practice with the apps, honestly.
I feel like it would be better to simply use a guided meditation app to learn the same concepts that this book taught, but it's easier to put into practice with the apps, honestly.
December 20, 2018
I’m sure the good intentions were there but it came across as a little contrite and in places; almost sarcastic. I also found the content woolly, with no real insight into mindfulness at all. I’d advise saving your money and putting it toward a Calm subscription where mindfulness is both taught and explained in an engaging way.
March 12, 2020
A great little book to help you centre your life. Becomes A little repetitive but a great reminder to breath.
September 4, 2020
Good book, short and sweet. 3.5/5.
January 17, 2025
Very short book, I enjoyed the dopamine hit of finishing it quickly. I really enjoyed most aspects I just wish it went deeper i feel like I still have questions that I started with unanswered. Worth a read, I enjoyed the writing style of quick chapters too
February 6, 2019
This book really teaches you how to truly live in the moment. We all need to learn how to slow our thoughts and how to correct them, and this book is an excellent tool for that!
April 19, 2019
For a short book, it packs a punch. Plenty of useful suggestions for mindfulness if you are looking for a self help book.
April 18, 2021
Very good book- makes you look at the way we think in a different way. A tiny bit cringe at times but one that I’ll probably keep dipping in and out of.
July 30, 2018
I enjoyed this quick read, for all of its valuable insight and tools for living in the now. To be fair, I just read it so I haven't had a lot of time to put into practice the authors suggestions but I definitely look forward to seeing what progress is made. Suffering from anxiety, I know that my doctors have encouraged this form of treatment but I've been a tad reluctant. This book breaks it down very simply and efficiently making it a lot less overwhelming than many books I have read on the subject. Being overwhelmed is a huge struggle in my life so the way it is presented is just as important as the subject matter, its the spoon full of sugar approach that makes me rate this book as high as I have.
This is a honest review of the ARC given to me through Netgalley. To see any of my other reviews just follow me.
This is a honest review of the ARC given to me through Netgalley. To see any of my other reviews just follow me.
October 6, 2020
You Are Not Your Thoughts by Frances Trussell
Book Review by Dawn Thomas
105 Pages
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing / O-Books
Release Date November 30, 2018
Meditation, Motivation, Self-Help
For a small book there are many messages inside. Last year I started meditating and found reading from different perspectives helpful. Her statement about finally getting mindfulness is how I felt about it. We need to know we are separate from our thoughts and the thoughts of others. This book gives us exercises and meditations to do that. We need to focus on what we are doing now and stop multi-tasking. We do better when we focus on one thing at a time, living in the now.
I read this book several times and got something different out of it with each read. This is definitely one of those books that should be on everyone’s night table, so they are reminded each morning and night to be more mindful.
Book Review by Dawn Thomas
105 Pages
Publisher: John Hunt Publishing / O-Books
Release Date November 30, 2018
Meditation, Motivation, Self-Help
For a small book there are many messages inside. Last year I started meditating and found reading from different perspectives helpful. Her statement about finally getting mindfulness is how I felt about it. We need to know we are separate from our thoughts and the thoughts of others. This book gives us exercises and meditations to do that. We need to focus on what we are doing now and stop multi-tasking. We do better when we focus on one thing at a time, living in the now.
I read this book several times and got something different out of it with each read. This is definitely one of those books that should be on everyone’s night table, so they are reminded each morning and night to be more mindful.
July 15, 2018
This brief book is a lovely addition to materials already available on the topic of mindfulness. If I was a beginner to the subject, this would likely have gone over my head a bit. Since I already have a firm grasp on the concept, it resonated with me in a strong way and provided a few tips I had not seen elsewhere. The writing is almost lyrical and I'd get into a rhythm while reading that was relaxing on its own. The author puts a big emphasis on the importance of meditation in a mindful life, and provides several exercises. I appreciate the kind tone and straightforward writing style.
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book in exchange for my review. For more of my reviews and other bookish musings, you can find me at www.ramonamead.com.
Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced copy of this book in exchange for my review. For more of my reviews and other bookish musings, you can find me at www.ramonamead.com.
February 13, 2019
4 Just Breathe Stars
this is a quick mindfulness book. it would work better if the sections were more defined and possibly making each point ion mindfulness its own page would be great. there are a lot of profound things mentioned in this book and I copied a few notes for later use. this book is mindfulness and you are able to find at least one thing in this book you can do to quiet the world around you
this is a quick mindfulness book. it would work better if the sections were more defined and possibly making each point ion mindfulness its own page would be great. there are a lot of profound things mentioned in this book and I copied a few notes for later use. this book is mindfulness and you are able to find at least one thing in this book you can do to quiet the world around you
December 15, 2018
I have read many, many books about personal development, including books about mindfulness, so I wasn't particularly expecting to find anything 'new' in 'You Are Not Your Thoughts'. However I discovered this book is a real gem.
There are many things I love about the book. First of all it is short! With many books you have to digest pages of theory before you can 'get going', but in this book there are short exercises you can try right from the beginning. So you don't have to spend time understanding what you are going to be doing - you just start doing it.
This book is also very easy to read. It doesn't bombard you with complex ideas but could give you results that will transform your life. It cleverly addresses the negative thoughts that can creep in, such as 'I won't have time to include this in my life' and 'What if I don't do it right?' and provides suggestions of ways you can gradually extend and deepen your practice. And they are quick and easy steps. You don't have to struggle or work hard at this.
If you are drawn to the idea that behind the noise in our minds there is 'the indescribable hum of happiness' and you long to tap into this happiness, then give this book a go.
I would recommend this for anyone who has heard about mindfulness and meditation but has never tried it; for anyone who has tried meditation but 'not got on with it'; or for anyone who would love to find some happiness but just don't know how to go about it. It is also great for people like me who know the benefits of meditation, but sometimes just get too caught up with day to day 'stuff' and need a reminder that there are simple steps we can take to find joy in each day.
Thank you to NetGalley and John Hunt Publishing for a review copy of this book. It is much appreciated.
There are many things I love about the book. First of all it is short! With many books you have to digest pages of theory before you can 'get going', but in this book there are short exercises you can try right from the beginning. So you don't have to spend time understanding what you are going to be doing - you just start doing it.
This book is also very easy to read. It doesn't bombard you with complex ideas but could give you results that will transform your life. It cleverly addresses the negative thoughts that can creep in, such as 'I won't have time to include this in my life' and 'What if I don't do it right?' and provides suggestions of ways you can gradually extend and deepen your practice. And they are quick and easy steps. You don't have to struggle or work hard at this.
If you are drawn to the idea that behind the noise in our minds there is 'the indescribable hum of happiness' and you long to tap into this happiness, then give this book a go.
I would recommend this for anyone who has heard about mindfulness and meditation but has never tried it; for anyone who has tried meditation but 'not got on with it'; or for anyone who would love to find some happiness but just don't know how to go about it. It is also great for people like me who know the benefits of meditation, but sometimes just get too caught up with day to day 'stuff' and need a reminder that there are simple steps we can take to find joy in each day.
Thank you to NetGalley and John Hunt Publishing for a review copy of this book. It is much appreciated.
November 5, 2018
You Are Not Your Thoughts: The Secret Matter of Mindfulness is a good introduction to mindfulness and meditation. A quick and easy read, it actually explains how to meditate for those who have not been able to find the information elsewhere.
The author distinguishes between thoughts (mind) and feelings (emotional reactions to thoughts that cause physical changes within the body). Her premise is you are not your thoughts, that you can control your thoughts (and reactions to them) by meditation, and that by focusing on the now, not the past, and not the future, you can embrace the art of new beginnings.
At first, I took exception to the title, because I think our lives ARE based on our thoughts and self-beliefs. If we constantly dwell on the negative, we are a negative person and that produces consequences both for ourselves and for those around us. If our thoughts are kind and compassionate, we tend to be kind and compassionate. I do agree with the author that our thoughts are often not based in fact, and that we have the capability to question our thoughts, acknowledge the feelings they create, deal with them and move on. We can redirect our thoughts to our benefit.
"Your attention is yours to give, be aware of where you choose to place it."
Many thanks to NetGalley and John Hunt Publishing - O Books for allowing me to read an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The author distinguishes between thoughts (mind) and feelings (emotional reactions to thoughts that cause physical changes within the body). Her premise is you are not your thoughts, that you can control your thoughts (and reactions to them) by meditation, and that by focusing on the now, not the past, and not the future, you can embrace the art of new beginnings.
At first, I took exception to the title, because I think our lives ARE based on our thoughts and self-beliefs. If we constantly dwell on the negative, we are a negative person and that produces consequences both for ourselves and for those around us. If our thoughts are kind and compassionate, we tend to be kind and compassionate. I do agree with the author that our thoughts are often not based in fact, and that we have the capability to question our thoughts, acknowledge the feelings they create, deal with them and move on. We can redirect our thoughts to our benefit.
"Your attention is yours to give, be aware of where you choose to place it."
Many thanks to NetGalley and John Hunt Publishing - O Books for allowing me to read an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2019
This is a very short book... and much of it could be argued is "common sense" and yet... I seem to have more clippings from the 100 pages here than from much larger books. It is stuffed full of perfect little axioms that are easy to remember/collect and are perfect to meditate on.
"Rather than being your thoughts and emotions, be the awareness behind them."
"If your mind is always rushing to be in the future and you hear yourself thinking 'when I do that I'll be happy, when I have achieved that I will be fulfilled' you could find yourself at the end of the road thinking 'what happened to my life?'
"If we know that most of our own thoughts are likely to be irrelevant then how can what anyone else thinks be any more relevant?"
This might not be life changing stuff (or it might!) but it is useful, it is easy to read, and it definitely stimulates thoughts and meanderings and that is to be applauded. If you know nothing about meditation and 'being in the now', this is a perfect place to start. If you know a lot already, it is a perfect place to gather bon mots for your commonplace book and then useful for contemplation.
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.
"Rather than being your thoughts and emotions, be the awareness behind them."
"If your mind is always rushing to be in the future and you hear yourself thinking 'when I do that I'll be happy, when I have achieved that I will be fulfilled' you could find yourself at the end of the road thinking 'what happened to my life?'
"If we know that most of our own thoughts are likely to be irrelevant then how can what anyone else thinks be any more relevant?"
This might not be life changing stuff (or it might!) but it is useful, it is easy to read, and it definitely stimulates thoughts and meanderings and that is to be applauded. If you know nothing about meditation and 'being in the now', this is a perfect place to start. If you know a lot already, it is a perfect place to gather bon mots for your commonplace book and then useful for contemplation.
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.
October 19, 2023
This book offers valuable insights into the power of mindfulness and its potential to transform our experiences of life. As someone who is seeking to overcome old beliefs and self-sabotage, I found it to be a helpful resource.
One of the key aspects discussed in the book is that we are not defined by our thoughts and we have the ability to step back from them. Trussell reminds us reminder that the negative and ugly thoughts that often fill our minds are not inherently true and we have the ability to change our thoughts if they are not serving us well.
The book shares the benefits of meditation and reasons for incorporating it into our lives. I found it challenging to practice meditations from a book, but it has encouraged me to return to a meditation app.
"You Are Not Your Thoughts" is a concise book with short chapters, which makes it easy to read and digest. It is an excellent tool for someone who is new to the concept of mindfulness and is seeking a practical self-help book without unnecessary waffle.
One of the key aspects discussed in the book is that we are not defined by our thoughts and we have the ability to step back from them. Trussell reminds us reminder that the negative and ugly thoughts that often fill our minds are not inherently true and we have the ability to change our thoughts if they are not serving us well.
The book shares the benefits of meditation and reasons for incorporating it into our lives. I found it challenging to practice meditations from a book, but it has encouraged me to return to a meditation app.
"You Are Not Your Thoughts" is a concise book with short chapters, which makes it easy to read and digest. It is an excellent tool for someone who is new to the concept of mindfulness and is seeking a practical self-help book without unnecessary waffle.
September 16, 2018
A great concise introduction to mindfulness and how to separate ourselves from our thoughts. Although, it is a very quick read it is packed with insights and tips for incorporating mindfulness into our everyday life. It removes the mystery from mindfulness meditation, is written in straightforward language and bite-sized chunks, so is suitable for everyone.
I will definitely recommend this book to anybody who is curious about or new to mindfulness.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
I will definitely recommend this book to anybody who is curious about or new to mindfulness.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
October 13, 2018
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This book is a really short book which is something that I really appreciate in self help books. I just want to get to the point and start to put what I have learnt into practice. I feel that this book is probably more aimed at somebody who has never practiced mindfulness before. The author talks of separating your thoughts from your feelings which did give me pause for thought. I would recommend this book to anyone who suffers from anxiety and has n3ver practiced mindfulness before.
January 20, 2019
This is definitely one of the better mindfulness books I’ve read. While nothing 'new' to me (I've been meditating for several years), the tone is perfectly pitched to be accessible but neither too new age-y or dumbed down at all.
I used my bus journey home from work to read it, slowly, and I can genuinely tell you that I’ve never found traffic jams so relaxing!
Full review, as ever, is up on my blog.
I used my bus journey home from work to read it, slowly, and I can genuinely tell you that I’ve never found traffic jams so relaxing!
Full review, as ever, is up on my blog.
May 16, 2023
A real gem of a book.
I can so relate to Trussell's anxiety and depression years. It's a horrible place to be, but when you come to the realization that you really are not your thoughts, everything changes. That shift from thinking to detaching to observing makes a big difference in feelings.
At least this was my experience. I love how it's a book that can be picked up any time (small enough to fit in a purse or night stand drawer), and choose a page to read. Especially the meditation section.
Giving this book a "thumbs up."
I can so relate to Trussell's anxiety and depression years. It's a horrible place to be, but when you come to the realization that you really are not your thoughts, everything changes. That shift from thinking to detaching to observing makes a big difference in feelings.
At least this was my experience. I love how it's a book that can be picked up any time (small enough to fit in a purse or night stand drawer), and choose a page to read. Especially the meditation section.
Giving this book a "thumbs up."
July 16, 2018
You Are Not is a challenge. A worthy one. But, one, nonetheless.
If you are an overconscioutous reader, try not to be should you endeavor this one. Do not misunderstand us. This will tie up some of the loose ends for you, if you are already reading along these spiritual lines. "The Power of Now," comes to mind.
However, there is more work involved with this reading. It's kind of mind blowing! Just work with it. The payoff is great.
Wild.
If you are an overconscioutous reader, try not to be should you endeavor this one. Do not misunderstand us. This will tie up some of the loose ends for you, if you are already reading along these spiritual lines. "The Power of Now," comes to mind.
However, there is more work involved with this reading. It's kind of mind blowing! Just work with it. The payoff is great.
Wild.
December 21, 2018
*I received a free copy of an eARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review*
I am so happy I read this book. It is a short and accessible guide to mindfulness and meditation. When I was reading this, I was going through a hard time in my personal life and this book really helped. It contains meditations that I had not heard of before that were relaxing. I will definitely keep this book as a resource and re-read.
I am so happy I read this book. It is a short and accessible guide to mindfulness and meditation. When I was reading this, I was going through a hard time in my personal life and this book really helped. It contains meditations that I had not heard of before that were relaxing. I will definitely keep this book as a resource and re-read.
February 19, 2019
I received a copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This little book brings much needed clarity to the world of mindfulness and talks you through the practice step by step. Short chapters make it quick and easy to read and perfect to refer back to and the language is like speaking to a friend. Definitely one I would recommend for anyone wanting to learn more and interested in giving it a go!
This little book brings much needed clarity to the world of mindfulness and talks you through the practice step by step. Short chapters make it quick and easy to read and perfect to refer back to and the language is like speaking to a friend. Definitely one I would recommend for anyone wanting to learn more and interested in giving it a go!
February 23, 2021
An excellent little book on how to fit mindfulness and meditation into daily life. I liked this especially because it is so short and easy to read. Some mindfulness books are intimidating and stressful because of their sheer length alone, never mind having to carry out what they recommend! This is mindfulness and meditation for the real world and I have already been incorporating it into my daily routine as needed.
Thoroughly and entirely recommended.
Thoroughly and entirely recommended.
September 10, 2018
I didn't get a whole lot out of this particular book on mindfulness. That is probably partly my own fault. I really just read it straight through like it was a novel or something. Really it should probably be read in short chunks with time to put into practice what the author is talking about. I'm probably not likely to go back and reread it to do that though.
November 30, 2018
Are you plagued by overthinking that eventually leads to depression and even suicidal thoughts? Scared that your life is going nowhere and you're doomed to the darkness forever? Then this is the book for you.
Check out my full review here!
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Check out my full review here!
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September 23, 2019
A great place to start if you are looking to start your mindfulness journey.
Very short and sweet. It had some great thinking points, like separating from your thoughts and instead feeling the feeling and watching it fade from your body.
Did anyone else notice that many commas were missing? I would have to read some sentences 2 or 3 times because the missing commas changed the context.
Very short and sweet. It had some great thinking points, like separating from your thoughts and instead feeling the feeling and watching it fade from your body.
Did anyone else notice that many commas were missing? I would have to read some sentences 2 or 3 times because the missing commas changed the context.
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