The Mindful Woman: Gentle Practices for Restoring Calm, Finding Balance, and Opening Your Heart

I am not all the way through this book, so with that caveat I will say that the material is as helpful as I thought it would be. I read a few pages and then close it and think about what I have read. I am trying to change some behaviors that are adding to my stress levels, and it is a slow process. I do recommend the book to anyone trying to take care of themselves in the face of tough situations.

Going through life on automatic is no way to live. "The Mindful Woman: Gentle Practices for Restoring Calm, Finding Balance, & Opening Your Heart" promotes a more mindful approach to life for women, in which every act they do begins to have more meaning. With much wisdom and advice throughout for sprinkling more thought onto life, "The Mindful Woman" is very solid and recommended reading for any woman who wants to break out of cruise control.

Sue Patton Thoele has done it again! I am a big fan of Sue's and have read nearly every book she's written over the years. Her work is always beautifully crafted, insightful, funny, and just plain practical. This book, in particular, may just be my favorite. If you are a woman like me who often finds herself harried and hurried, this book can be a soothing balm in a very hectic day. Once you learn how valuable it is to live mindfully, rather than mindlessly (which Sue relates very well), any one of the practice sessions she presents will predictably deliver you to a more peaceful state of mind and heart. Mindfulness does take practice and commitment, but it is not difficult to engage at all, as the author demonstrates through delightful vignettes from her own life. Once you get the hang of mindfulness, life takes on a whole new hue. There is so much more joy and appreciation to be found--not to mention fewer stress-filled days! I really loved this book. I would recommend it to women of all ages, lifestyles, and spiritualities. It has the word "classic" written all over it. I know I will read it myself again and again. I am so glad Sue wrote this for all of us.

Reading "The Mindful Woman" was like meeting with a wise, witty, wonderful friend for coffee every morning. It's the kind of book I never wanted to end! "The Mindful Woman" is also a book I can turn to again and again when I feel I the need to be inspired and/or guided... I can simply open to a page and see the perfect message for the moment. There is comfort in knowing that the book really isn't over! I also HIGHLY recommend "The Courage to be Yourself", and "Heart Centered Marriage" by Sue Thoele... books I feel have been overlooked and have SOOOOooooo MUCH to offer... reading them has changed & transformed my life.

I dived into The Mindful Woman, and whipped through part one, admiring the writing and synthesis of LOTS of information presented elegantly and simply. I slowed down in part two, where she offers practical examples, savoring each sweet bite of advice and wisdom. I honor the brilliance of what Sue Thoele has accomplished. It is not merely a book about mindfulness: Sue has created a mindfulness experience for every reader. This book will live on my nightstand. In just a few minutes, I reclaim gentleness and compassion toward myself and others. The most magical aspect of Sue's approach is that anyone can find support for their beliefs, whether Christians, Buddhists, Jews, or agnostics. It is all about seeking peace of mind.