Mindfulness is a wonderful technique to restore tranquillity. There is a growing body of evidence to show that mindfulness has substantial benefits in reducing stress and improving learning retention in the school and university environment.

The Misted Mirror is one of few books that provides readers with not only an insight into the nature of mindfulness in the context of psychotherapy, but also takes the practice and philosophy of mindfulness into the learning environment and the realm of holistic education. While the target readership are students between 13–20 years of age, it is highlighted that mindfulness practice is equally important to both teachers and students.

Unlike other books on the subject, The Misted Mirror adopts a purely secular slant and avoids the promotion of any religious content whatsoever. With his background knowledge of education theory, the author has explained very clearly the application of mindfulness principles to classroom learning, managing learning stress and improving teaching approaches, with appropriate examples. In one of the chapters, he has even expounded a personal experience of how contemplative learning is conducted in an outdoor excursion using mindfulness principles.

What is perhaps most amazing with this book is the series of guided imagery scripts and practical art exercises provided in the appendix. These are based on the author's own experience of combining mindfulness with art expression in supporting hospital patients emotionally. Furthermore, a college teacher has kindly contributed the content of her own mindfulness-based art program to enrich the appendix. Parents and other teachers will most likely find these exercises invaluable in helping their own children.

Peter Mack

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