Buddhism for Mothers of Young Children: Becoming a Mindful Parent

This book is useful for those who aren't practising Buddhists as well. Many mothers would like to be more mindful, and would like to avoid getting so caught up in "busyness" that we miss those amazing little baby moments. This book has useful, practical thoughts to help mothers adjust their perspective to see what is really important. It bridges the gap between Buddhist books that seem written for people who have no distractions in their life and plenty of time for formal meditations and retreats, and the reality of mothers of young children.

What I like about this book is that the author writes as both a practicing Buddhist and a hands-on mother, and her personal stories bring the two together. She doesn't write in the voice of a Buddhist 'teacher', or as a parenting expert. She shares stories from the trenches of her daily experience, and is very honest about how she feels in the moment. This makes it easy to translate into your own life. All of the chapters revolve around a question, such as 'Who am I?', 'Where am I going?', 'What does this moment require?' and even 'What can I do about all the housework?' The most meaningful chapter to me personally was 'Who are my children?', which addresses the ideas and projections we often impose on our children, out of concern or denial. I personally liked this book more than the prior, because it also covers the themes of mindfulness well, but branches out into more psychological issues associated with motherhood and ties them back to Buddhism. I think any parent can benefit from this book.

Excellent book. I can't recommend it enough. It has changed the way I parent and the way I treat myself and those around me. If you are looking to be more present in your life and with your children I suggest you read both of her books!

I think this is a great book, the author's use of examples of what other parents have been through is very helpful. She is very realistic and honest about feelings you may go through when parenting. And then she gives good ways of dealing with these feelings. Very down to earth.

wonderfully wise and supportive book for busy moms of all spiritual persuasions -- wish i'd had it when i was younger!