This book is an introduction to Mindfulness and an analysis of its multiple beneficial effects, from improving mental and physical resilience and well-being, reducing chronic stress, addressing mental health issues (anxiety, depression, etc.) to enhancing interpersonal relationships.

Mindfulness is a way of approaching human experience, and life in general, based on focusing on the present, observing without judgment, and acceptance. It helps us get out of autopilot and truly feel present in our lives, to connect meaningfully with ourselves and others. At the same time, it is a very useful tool for managing anxiety, as it teaches us to respond to life’s difficulties with calmness, prudence, and mental clarity.

The authors propose and thoroughly develop an 8-week program for cultivating mindfulness, with tested and highly effective practices for coping with stress or depression, as well as generally tackling low mood and psychosomatic exhaustion caused by the frantic pace of modern life. They use a combination of meditation practices (described and also provided online in the form of audio files accompanying the book) along with the presentation of theory and research data.