In Art of the Inner Meal
and Meal by Meal
, Altman, who is also a therapist, explored healthy, conscientious food relationships. Though diet only plays a supporting role in this joyful look at residing in the present moment, reading Altman remains a profoundly nourishing experience. This is one of stacks of books to feature mindfulness exercises (observing breathing and emotions, sensing the body, loving-kindness prayers), but the added discussion of neuroscience studies that support the practice and the author’s conversational, intimate tone make it one of the most worthwhile. Altman’s four “keys” to mindfulness—mind, body, spirit, and relationships—are each given 11 concise, straightforward chapters. Autobiography, lecture, stories form counseling sessions, and exercises for tuning into the now with greater clarity are the teaching tools for each key. Targeting stress and anxiety, Atman’s prose and message is a peace-promoting prescription for anyone frazzled by life’s breakneck speed. Mindfulness veterans and newcomers alike will find a trustworthy guide to a discipline gaining greater popularity and scientific validation. Altman addresses the mind while writing from the heart. (June)
