This book begins with explaining what meditation is, and what it isn't, assuring the reader that you don't have to force happy, peaceful emotions or clear your mind of all thought in order to successfully meditate. It's just about being present and aware in each moment, and finding acceptance no matter what thoughts or emotions come up.
One thing that I did not like about the explanation section is that it promotes some very leftist ideas and abnormal ideologies as though they are normal. "In a society where you're judged and targeted for things you can't control, like your sexuality, the color of your skin, or your body or gender identity..." "[Meditation] can't do much about racism, homophobia, or sexism on a broad scale. But it can help you deal with all that..." It seems silly to lump racism in with gender identity. They are completely different issues.
The introduction also states that "...mindfulness meditation has its roots in Buddhism..." which could not be further from the truth. Most religions of the world have some form of meditation teaching, including Christianity and Judaism.
The next chapter is full of various prompts for basic meditations, like focusing on your breath, scanning your body, self-compassion, gratitude, or visualizing a happy place.
The following chapters are meditations for School Life, Friends and Family, Everyday Life, and Self-Care. These meditations focus on things like "Taking an Exam, Coping with Mistakes, Finding Forgiveness, Silencing Self-Criticism, and Handling Parental Expectations." I really liked the good advice and healthy reminders in the meditations, urging the reader to step back, slow down, and recharge with compassion and clarity. Each meditation has steps for connecting to the breath, allowing your emotions to be there without criticism or guilt, and then stepping forward into a more positive experience with a better mental energy.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone. #books #book #bookstagram #mindfulness #meditation #nonfiction #bookreview
When the biggest snowstorm of the year hits, one little girl is glad that there is no electricity, because it means that everyone will slow down and enjoy the snow. Her family eats dinner by candlelight, and snuggles together in front of the fire. They make a blanket fort, and sleep all together in one big mattress. The little girl makes a wish on a snowglobe, wishing for peace on earth. In the morning, all their neighbors come out to play in the snow and they join hands around a Christmas tree.
The focus in this book is about all kinds of people coming together in peace to enjoy the simple pleasures of life like playing in the snow. The mother and father in the story are a bi-racial couple. Their neighbors are all ages from babies to grandparents, and from many different races and cultural backgrounds. Even the cat and dog get along together and promote peace!
I loved the sweet illustrations with clean lines and soft pastel colors. Each character is so cute! The little girl who makes the snow globe wish is completely adorable from start to finish. I love how cozy the family looks in their blanket fort.
There are a lot of side characters who appear in the background, making a snowman, driving home from work in the snow, walking their dog, shoveling snow, having a snowball fight, building a snowfort, making snow angels, or pulling a little sled for the toddlers. Just ordinary people taking time to enjoy a little respite from their everyday lives and have fun in the snow! Reminding us that it's important to slow down sometimes and enjoy life.
The story is told in poetry, with good rhymes and a flowing meter. It's a simple story with a powerful message.
The cover is lovely, with glitter covering the snow on the dustjacket. The end papers are a beautiful soft green color with little drawings of snowflakes, sleds, and ice skates on them.
I can't wait to read this book with my nieces!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone. #bookstagram #book #books #read #picturebook #christmas #christmasbook
