When you think of meditation, what comes to mind? The Dalai Lama? Sitting cross-legged in a dark room with incense and music?
Maybe you picture closing your eyes and trying not to think about anything, or the end of a long, relaxing yoga class.
The truth is, meditation can take a variety of forms. You don’t have to practice a particular religion to enjoy the benefits of it.
But you should consider its long-term effects on your wellbeing. One of the best ways to learn how to bring the practice into your life is by reading meditation books. Read on to find out more!
Benefits of Meditation
The benefits of meditation are extensive. Taking time to be still and meditate can help you focus on the present moment. Putting your energy into the present can release you from anxiety you may feel about the past or the future.
Meditation also relieves symptoms of depression, chronic pain, headaches, and sleep issues. It’s become a common treatment for symptoms of anxiety too.
If you’re experiencing regular bouts of distress, consider seeking therapy for anxiety. Otherwise, meditation is a worthwhile practice to keep up. This is especially true as our world moves at a faster and faster pace.
Why Read Meditation Books?
Isn’t meditation just sitting quietly and trying not to think about anything? Not quite.
Reading about meditation can help you learn different meditation styles and techniques. Spiritual meditation connects you with a sense of a higher power. It’s often part of religious practices.
Visualization meditation uses imagery and prompts. This helps promote a sense of peace and happiness. Mantra meditation focuses on the repetition of a word or sound to help clear the mind.
And these are only a handful of the types of meditation you can try!
The best meditation books will give you insight into the history of meditation. They will help you understand why you should practice it.
They can also give you a sense of support and understanding. You’ll realize how many authors and readers alike have benefited from meditation.
So the next time you’re wondering where to buy meditation books, check out these five reads to kick off your journey to inner peace.
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Strength in Stillness: The Power of Transcendental Meditation
Strength in Stillness by Bob Roth is a study of transcendental meditation (TM). TM is one of the more widely used meditations, where you repeat a silent mantra for about 20 minutes at a time.
Published in 2018, Strength in Stillness offers an introduction to this type of meditation. It explains how it came about and what its biggest benefits are.
It’s not necessarily a guide to learning how to practice TM. Instead, it champions the practice and offers testimonials on its usefulness. If you need support in your meditation journey, Strength in Stillness may be the book for you.
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The Headspace Guide to Meditation and Mindfulness
Andy Puddicome wrote The Headspace Guide in 2016. It’s a solid introduction to meditation and mindfulness. One of the best books on meditation, it has a light, easy tone that matches its sister app, Headspace.
Though written five years ago, it’s still one of the best mediation books 2021 has to offer. Andy Puddicombe spent 10 years meditating in the Himalayas before becoming a monk. He knows how even a few minutes of daily mindfulness can improve your quality of life.
The Headspace Guide is an easy-to-digest beginner’s guide to all the whys of meditation. Partner it with the Headspace App and you’ve got everything you need.
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Practicing Mindfulness: 75 Essential Meditations to Reduce Stress, Improve Mental Health, and Find Peace in the Everyday
Practicing Mindfulness is one of the best guided meditation and mindfulness books. Written by Matthew Sockolov, it offers meditations you can practice wherever you are.
It’s easy to navigate and understand. But the best part is you can complete some of the exercises in as little as five minutes.
It’s a great book for parents on the go or busy professionals who can’t spare a full 30-60 minutes. You’ll find examples of how to be more mindful during everyday activities, like doing the dishes or having a conversation.
Read it straight through or skim to the page that’s most applicable to your needs. Practicing Mindfulness is a great book to keep in your car or at your desk for quick pick-me-ups during your busier days.
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When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times
This book by Pema Chodron cuts to the heart of the hardest issues we face as human beings: fear, pain, and anxiety. Instead of fleeing from these emotions, Chodron suggests we move toward them.
WhenThings FallApart helps you navigate your emotions in an open-minded, healing way. Chodron draws inspiration from traditional Buddhist wisdom and practices. Then she encourages her readers to take a mindful approach toward their experiences.
This book has short, easy-to-read chapters. Start your day by meditating on one new chapter. Then reflect and journal on what it teaches and what you discover.
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Zen Meditation for Beginners: A Practical Guide to Inner Calm
Published in 2020, Bonnie Myotai Treace’s Zen Meditation is a straightforward guide. It’ll help you soak in the present moment by breaking down 10 principles of Zen meditation. Then it’ll teach you how to incorporate them into your own life.
You’ll read about topics like acknowledging negative self-talk and embracing kindness. Zen Meditation also offers exercises that you can do in 10 minutes at home or while you’re on the go.
You don’t need prior experience with Zen philosophy or meditation to get the most out of this book. It’s a complete beginner guide to get you started.
Find Your Inner Peace
These are a handful of the best meditation books available today. Start your journey toward inner peace by learning about the benefits of meditation. Discover all the different ways you can fit meditation into your life.
Remember, you don’t have to be a practiced monk to make the most of meditation or mindfulness. You just need 5-10 minutes a day.
You can check out more on self-care and wellbeing by visiting our health category.
