Buddha Mom: The Path of Mindful Mothering

by Jacqueline Kramer

In Buddha Mom , Jacqueline Kramer beautifully illuminates the ways in which motherhood can be woven with the spiritual life. Drawing upon her twenty years as a practicing Buddhist, as well as many other wisdom traditions from around the world, she offers powerful insights into cultivating a more spiritual attitude toward parenting.

In chapters, guided by central Buddhist themes-Simplicity, Nurturance, Joyful Service, Unconditional Love-Kramer's personal experience of pregnancy, birth, and then raising her daughter to adulthood serves as a guide to integrating the roles of parent and spiritual being. A celebration of all that motherhood can be, Buddha Mom presents an inspiring vision of child rearing.

Genres: Parenting, Buddhism, Nonfiction, Religion

224 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Gina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Overall, I was disappointed with this read. I've been reading up on Buddhism lately, because I was curious and hoping I can learn more about it and how it's applied in practice. I thought this would be a good book because I myself am a stay-at-home mom.

Instead of a solid discussion on Buddhism and mothering, however, Kramer injects a lot of new-age spirituality into the narrative. I think that when her writing strays from the subject of Buddhism, her writing suffers because it obviously detracts from the primary focus of the book but also because her writing becomes a little aimless and awkward. She really is at her best discussing Buddhism - its primary tenants and their application, in her life as a mother and in the lives of others.

Frankly, I'm a little surprised her editor let her get away with this. She's clearly a gifted writer - good voice, a steady, even rhythm I'm finding typical of Buddhist writing, perceptive and very gifted in unpacking some of these more esoteric Eastern ideas to a Western audience. The book ends very strongly, but I'm not eager to read more of her work.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much about Buddhism is about a practice that requires solitude, meditation, focus, attention and attending workshops or classes. None of which can be done with children. The most valuable thing about this book is how it highlights that everyday mom things can be a part of the Buddhist path and how Buddhist philosophy can improve parenting simply by being mindful and present. I found it inspiring.

[Maurine · Rating 1 out of 5]

too terrible to finish

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kramer has a great way of pouring out buddhist practice into drinkable portions for moms. The practical applications of following the middle path and meditation as everyday mindfulness is something moms can feel good, not guilty about. She seems to be following her own imperfect and rocky path which makes her an elegant teacher rather than an unattainable idol. In the beginning I thought I wanted an idol - a prophet of moms - and I was turned off by the mention of some of her failings. By the middle of the book, I was thankful for her insights, thankful that she was just 'one of us' who happened to know deeply about buddhist practice. I want to read it all over again simply for the nuggets of wisdom and great reminders. While it was not a great comprehensive work, it was a bunch of short anecdotes filled with wisdom and heartfelt grace.

[Charity · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jacqueline Kramer gives information about her personal journey through pregnancy and motherhood from a Buddhist perspective, and guidance for all moms hoping to realize the spiritual potential of motherhood. I found the suggestions realistic, and I could really relate to the situations she described. It helped me take another step towards fully embracing and enjoying the "mom" role that I've chosen to make central in my life.

For anyone who reads this book and wants more, visit Jacqueline's website -- www.hearthfoundation.net -- for information about her free online classes.

[Amber · Rating 4 out of 5]

I intentionally took forever to read this book. It was such a lovely little gem to read and contemplate. Really made me savor and appreciate the mothering process - really value it for what it is. I'd like to read it again.

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

just bought this today after wanting it for sometime...looks lovely!

[Rebecca Spitzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The first time I felt peace since my divorce.

[LindseyLu · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. Jacqueline Kramar has an amazing view on being not only a mother to our children but a nuturer of the planet, society, and Self.

[Heather · Rating 2 out of 5]

not as informative as I was looking for

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I keep this book on my nightstand at all times. It is so inspiring and reminds me to be mindful and to honour the beauty and challenges that only a journey through motherhood can bring to my life.

[Barbc]

14

[Suri Morales]

I found that the author skipped around a lot. I was very confused by the flow of the book. Although the chapter titles seemed to flow, the content in them did not. I could not finish reading it.

[Katherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

How to handle difficult emotions and practice without sitting alone on a mountain top.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has given me enormous insight to parenting.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book kept me calm and gave me great perspective during both of my pregnancies.