Peace Within the Stillness: Relaxation & Meditation for True Happiness

Eddie and Debbie Shapiro have taught a blend of Buddhist and Yogic meditations for more than twenty years. Their latest book, Peace Within The Stillness: Relaxation And Meditation For True Happiness teaches readers the technique of Inner Consciousness Relaxation, a simple, but effective meditation practice. The authors first explain what stress is and how it affects the body. They include a very easy breathing exercise for releasing tension. They then teach readers how to do a body scan to help locate stored tension. The difficulties in our lives are necessary for our growth. The Shapiros illustrate this with the example of how the lotus plant needs muddy water before it can produce a beautiful bloom. We can wallow in the mud of our lives, or we can "use it for nourishment or stimulation." The choice is always ours to make. Relaxation and meditation can help us transform mud into flowers. "Through relaxation the inner stresses are released, while in meditation we develop greater self-awareness." Meditation is intense concentration. There are a variety of techniques for focusing your concentration. The Shapiros say the best method is the one that works for you. They counsel patience--it takes time to train your mind. "Meditation is an experience of being," they say. It is just being still and "watching the mind, sitting with whatever arises in it without judgement or criticism, simply observing, being quiet and getting in touch with the you beneath the thoughts." The Shapiros include details on how to achieve relaxation, and offer several practice meditations, including ones for forgiveness and self-healing. You may record the meditations if you wish, or purchase meditation tapes they have recorded. They conclude with a description of the seven major kinds of meditation, including candle gazing and walking meditations. While all those interested in meditation will find Peace Within the Stillness informative and interesting, those new to meditation will find it especially enlightening and beneficial. It's an ideal gift for anyone in need of stress relief. Paper. 181 pp. -- Sandra I. Smith, Reviewer