“Mindfulness”, it’s everywhere. The word has become a buzzword and the concept has spawned a multibillion dollar industry. It makes sense, the idea that each and every one of us has the power to actually manage our own stress and anxiety through mindfulness meditation to better enjoy life is pretty enticing. To think that we can change the wiring and makeup of our brains to more meaningfully immerse ourselves in joy, sign me up.  My only thought – why the heck did it take so long? 

Mindfulness and meditation can also feel overwhelming to unearth. But, if you want to get down to the truth of it, the core of it, there is no one better suited to unfurl this heavy subject matter, than Tara Brach. Brach is an American psychologist and proponent of Buddhist meditation. She is a guiding teacher and founder of the Insight Meditation Community of Washington D.C. In her book, Radical Acceptance, Brach embraces vulnerability and shares through the lens of both psychology and Buddhism – an interesting mix. She is able to weave together stories from her own life as a therapist, a mom and as a meditation teacher. She spends a great deal of time allowing the reader to appreciate our own worthiness. This is done with skilled storytelling and practical techniques. Repeat after me, “I am worthy”. And if the book isn’t enough Brach to fill you up, check out her mindfulness podcast. The weekly podcast shares a guided meditation and talk that blends Western psychology with Eastern spiritual practices. www.tarabrach.com

If investigating mindfulness isn’t your cup of tea and you’d rather witness it through storytelling, check out Katherine May’s Wintering. This is a great book, particularly as winter approaches. The book is a meditation on retreating for strength. It allows readers the grace to turn into themselves for peace and for strength to continue to move forward. May does all this while giving us permission to turn in, to slow down, to process in order to come out more resilient. My favorite part? May strips away the shame associated with a slower, more reflective pace. Grab a warm mug of whatever you crave and your favorite blankie and embrace the chill. www.katherine-may.co.uk.

And if a book isn’t your style, no worries – there are more great podcasts to indulge your foray into mindfulness too! Check out Untangle – Mindfulness for Curious Humans. This podcast includes experiences from all perspectives — think psychologists, nutritionists, business leaders, meditation teachers, storytellers, and so many more — and features a robust collection of interviews with a range of great guests. So. Good. 

But, my can’t miss podcast? Check out: The One You Feed with host Eric Zimmer. Each week Zimmer talks with experts including scientists, researchers, thought leaders, public figures… you get the point. Zimmer takes the time to interview each guest to better understand how listeners can live a more fulfilling life through their day-to-day actions. Zimmer does an incredible job highlighting practical tools each of us can use to suffer less and live with more joy, peace and fulfillment. Bonus – his voice is pretty damn soothing. This is a podcast I never miss!

Stay tuned for next month’s post, which will feature brand new resources to explore.

Kate is a member of several AFC tribes. She is an avid reader who enjoys sharing exciting, new resources focusing on personal, professional and spiritual growth. Kate is a freelance writer residing in Northeast Wisconsin with her husband and three teenage children.