Book Review: Mindfulness for Study: From Procrastination to Action by Karisa Krcmár and Tina Horsman. Aberdeen: Inspired by Learning, 2016, 191 pp., ISBN 978-1-909876-06-4

Press/Media: Research

Description

In the ever-expanding field of positive psychology mindfulness is increasingly recognised as both a clinical intervention and treatment for people with psychological problems. In this timely book the authors, both experienced practitioners and tutors in mindfulness, provide useful techniques, ideas and practices which users will find relevant in work and relationships as they seek ways of maintaining good physical, emotional and mental health. In many ways, this is a self-study book that is well written, carefully edited for jargon and written in a style that is catchy and engaging. Ideas and techniques of mindfulness are well explained throughout the book. For each of its 11 chapters the book begins with a relevant quotation, followed by an itinerary of the main areas to be covered in the chapter. Next, an in-depth discussion of the topic - interspaced by real-life examples, practical exercises, mind-maps of key issues, thought-provoking questions, relevant illustrations/pictures and a helpful summary (entitled ‘your ticket to chapter…’) of the main points. Finally, the reader is introduced to a few points covering the next area of travel (i.e. new chapter). This style of presentation ensures that the reader fully grasps the concepts and issues before embarking on the next chapter. The reason for this is that each new chapter builds on knowledge gained in a preceding chapter. At the end of each chapter a useful reference section is provided. All chapters in this book are relevant and informative, although chapter 10 (‘Mindful use of Internet’) is particularly timely. The psychological harm of internet addiction, for example, and its impact on mental health is only now beginning to receive the serious attention it deserves, and to learn that mindfulness can help deal with this problem is an important contribution the book makes. Finally, the book provides a one-stop compendium of ideas and practical skills of mindfulness, which students, teachers, practitioners and those with a general interest in positive psychology, mental health or mental health and education will find invaluable.

Period30 Dec 2016

Media coverage

1

Media coverage

  • TitleBook Review: Mindfulness for Study: From Procrastination to Action by Karisa Krcmár and Tina Horsman. Aberdeen: Inspired by Learning, 2016, 191 pp., ISBN 978-1-909876-06-4
    Date30/12/16
    PersonsYonah Matemba