SPIRITUALITY & RELIGION

Why We Meditate: The Science and Practice of Clarity and Compassion

by Daniel Goleman (text) & Tsoknyi Rinpoche (illus.).
Atria. Dec. 2022. 224p. ISBN 9781982178451. $27.99. HEALTH
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Both deeply personal and methodologically sound, this book by American Psychological Association Lifetime Achievement Award winner Goleman (Emotional Intelligence) and Tibetan Buddhist meditation master Rinpoche (Open Heart, Open Mind) offers a framework for meditation that draws on the spiritual and scientific. Each chapter explains the why behind an aspect of meditation, offers an exercise that immediately gives readers a way into the practice, and examines scientific reasons for the benefits. For example, there are scientific studies about how meditation can slow breathing, improve cognitive function, and alleviate anxiety, anger, and confusion. The coauthors draw on their combined experiences in ways that make meditation psychologically and personally relevant.
VERDICT As valuable for skeptical or reluctant meditative practitioners as it is for experienced ones, this book is actionable, intentional, personal, and practical.
Reviewed by Emily Bowles , Oct 01, 2022
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