Written by an experienced practitioner, the principle aim of the journal is to encourage the user to appreciate the value of living in the present rather than constantly searching for happiness in future - possibly hypothetical - events. It is written in a clear, non-jargonistic way, using language that is accessible to its readers. The author reminds us that just as following a daily morning routine is known to be beneficial to our well-being, completing a journal can be a valuable and positive tool in our journey of self-development and improvement. Links with other positive roots in yoga, meditation and slow, controlled breathing is also encouraged.
The first part of the book consists of ways which help the reader to understand how best to make use of the ten daily, reflective questions which form the body of the journal. The author employs his own experiences in order to convince us of the real benefits to be had in responding each morning to these ten empowering questions. The examples given are easy to understand and fall within most people's range of everyday thinking. In order to extend the impact, we are also encouraged to answer mentally or speak aloud thoughts and ideas that will not fit into the space given. Every seven days, three new questions are included. Each daily journal begins with a quotation and is arranged over two pages. The back of the journal consists of a short meaningful conclusion and lined pages for note making.
This is the type of book that I would purchase for myself and would give to like-minded friends as a gift. I would however choose a hardback copy. I especially like the unpretentious approach and its simplicity of format. Often when quotations are used, they are there for effect but the ones included here are varied in provenance and I personally found them extremely reflective.
There are a lot of similarly themed books on the market at the moment so competition for marketing feels tough. Many are 'pretty' and seem to have no real foundation to them whereas this feels genuine and as if the author really cares for his readers. However, I feel that a little more focus upon its aesthetics might encourage its appeal and I would have welcomed the inclusion of some simple illustrations and variety of text formats to enable this.
Val Rowe, A LoveReading Ambassador
| Primary Genre | Self Help and Personal Development |
| Other Genres: | |
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