Looking at Mindfulness

February 9, 2015
French psychiatrist André (Feelings & Moods) offers a distinctive method for practicing the much-written-about meditation technique of mindfulness: meditating on and exploring 25 aspects of mindfulness practice through observation of classic works of visual art. His exploration is organized across four
general areas: how to cultivate a mindful attitude, how to integrate this practice into daily life, how to find calmness during chaotic times, and how to discover the contemplative and sacred dimensions of mindful living. Each aspect (observing thoughts, breathing, accepting mystery) is introduced with a poetic reflection on works such as Caspar David Friedrich’s Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog and Hieronymous Bosch’s The Conjurer, all reproduced in full color. André uses his own reflections as exercises in mindfulness: returning to the breath, paying attention, feeling thoughts and emotions, and remaining present with the response the artwork evokes. André’s work is a poetic, compassionate guide to mindfulness, offering a fresh and thoughtful path.

February 1, 2015

In this internationally best-selling book, French psychiatrist Andre guides the reader through the practice of mindfulness to art itself. Using color photographs of classic and modern works, the author shows readers how to quiet the outer world and intensify their presence in the moment, neither trying to escape it or change it. Andre responds to each art piece in terms of feelings and sensory perceptions, helping readers to visualize themselves inside the canvas, smelling, hearing, and really seeing the scene. VERDICT A fascinating book, suitable for those who are interested in art or the discipline of mindfulness.

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.