Beyond Mindfulness in Plain English: An Introductory guide to Deeper States of Meditation (Boston: Wisdom Publications, 2009)

In reviewing Beyond Mindfulness in Plain English: An Introductory guide to Deeper States of Meditation by Bhante Henepola Gunaratana throughout this past week (this is my fourth time reading it over the last few years) I was reminded of a key personal truth.  More on that later.

This is one of the very best books I’ve read from the perspective of an author who details the more advanced levels of meditation: The jhanas.

Here’s why:

The author does a tremendous job describing the characteristics of each jhana, strategies for working toward each respective level of concentration, and the specifics that often stand in the way: The hindrances.  He also provides helpful stories and background which makes the more challenging aspects of the book easier to understand.

His tone is comforting, and kind, but yet persuasive as to the content.  Additionally, he stays on point and is very focused.  Some authors in this genre don’t do that quite as well.

I could not recommend this book more highly.

That said, here is the truth:

For me, meditation must become a daily habit, and I’m going to make a personal commitment to all of our current and future readers.

Starting today, and for the rest of my life I promise to meditate at least five minutes daily.  You can hold me to it.  It’s happening.

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