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.