Why Can't I Meditate?

March 15, 2016
In an increasingly busy culture, mindfulness is helpful, but how to put it into practice? This is the question the book seeks to answer. Wellings combines teachings from Buddhism with methods from cognitive therapy to provide a clear framework for meditation practice and its attendant challenges. Chapters detail the logistics of practicefinding a space, sitting stillbut also describe the mental hurdles that those who meditate may encounter. Interviews with beginning practitioners are sprinkled throughout, providing good perspectives and a way to thoughtfully process the struggles that beginners may face. The book is full of practical tips, and Wellings' tone is gentle, reminding seekers to be compassionate toward themselves and their perceived failures. The instructions are clear, easy to follow, and kind, offering readers a path forward while leaving plenty of room for them to decide what works best. New students of mediation would be hard-pressed to find a more patient teacher.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)