The practice of ‘mindfulness’ has moved from its roots in psychological therapy into the mainstream of today’s popular culture, where it is marketed as a path to health and wellbeing. A mental exercise that takes a few minutes a day seems like an easy fix to life’s problems, the perfect antidote to the frantic pace of our lives.
But does mindfulness work, and if so, how? Is it backed by scientific evidence? And given its links to Buddhist thought, can therapeutic mindfulness be practised in ways that are consistent with a Christian worldview?
In Christ-Centred Mindfulness, academic and experienced mental health worker Katherine Thompson addresses these questions and highlights mindfulness-related practices that have been used within the church for hundreds of years – practices that help us slow down, connect to what is happening inside ourselves and make space to listen for God’s guidance in everyday life. Dr Thompson draws on this rich tradition to present Christian mindfulness exercises that can be used to enrich our prayer lives, help us to draw near to God and grow in Christlikeness.
Whether you’re a Christian who is curious about mindfulness practice and its benefits, or you work in a counselling profession and are trying to sort through your own approach to mindfulness-based therapies, this book is for you.