Mirror Meditation: The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism, Gain Confidence, and See Yourself with Compassion

In this straightforward debut, Barnard psychology professor Well explains how to use mirror gazing to see “yourself and the world with clarity, honesty, and compassion.” Calling mirrors “one of the most essential tools you have to deal with life’s challenges,” Well recommends staring at one’s reflection for prolonged periods of time, and doing so with kind intention while attending to how one’s thoughts about it affect one’s emotions. She urges readers to record themselves speaking their minds in private video journals and to later watch the footage while considering what feelings the experience elicits. Selfie addiction can exacerbate unhealthy dispositions toward one’s image, Well contends, and encourages readers to passively examine the sensation of wanting to take a selfie so that they might mitigate the compulsion. Exercises offer guidance on taming anxiety by identifying triggers and promoting self-love by imagining dialogues between one’s inner critic and nurturer. Readers will appreciate Well’s simple and easy to implement methodology. This accessible volume is worth a look. (June)