Customer Reviews

Buddhism for Mothers of Young Children: Becoming a Mindful Parent

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I got this invitation to write a review while reading Buddhism for Mothers of Young Children: Becoming a Mindful Parent. I read Sarah Napthali's first book on Buddhism for Mothers and enjoyed it. I read this book with great pleasure as well. Napthali reflects on Buddhists principles from a recognizable point of view, that of a mother. A real 'I have been there and I have done that' mother. This makes the book a pleasure to read. You do not have to be a Buddhist to like this book and the author doesn't demand you to understand difficult Buddhist scriptures. You can even read this book while being interrupted by your child and I am quite sure that you will stay calm and kind. I like this book best because it helps you to celebrate motherhood not so much because of your kids (there are many other books on that subject) but because Napthali helps you to make it a long lasting meditation and gain wisdom and joy in the demanding years of parenting young children.

What I like about this book is that the author writes as both a practicing Buddhist and a hands-on mother, and her personal stories bring the two together. She doesn't write in the voice of a Buddhist 'teacher', or as a parenting expert. She shares stories from the trenches of her daily experience, and is very honest about how she feels in the moment. This makes it easy to translate into your own life.

All of the chapters revolve around a question, such as 'Who am I?', 'Where am I going?', 'What does this moment require?' and even 'What can I do about all the housework?' The most meaningful chapter to me personally was 'Who are my children?', which addresses the ideas and projections we often impose on our children, out of concern or denial.

I personally liked this book more than the prior, because it also covers the themes of mindfulness well, but branches out into more psychological issues associated with motherhood and ties them back to Buddhism. I think any parent can benefit from this book.

Excellent book. I can't recommend it enough. It has changed the way I parent and the way I treat myself and those around me. If you are looking to be more present in your life and with your children I suggest you read both of her books!

I think this is a great book, the author's use of examples of what other parents have been through is very helpful. She is very realistic and honest about feelings you may go through when parenting. And then she gives good ways of dealing with these feelings. Very down to earth.

I picked this up as a fluke at the library and it is turning out to be one of the best parenting books I have ever read! It reminds parents of how important it is to be in the present and just enjoy time with their children. Naphtali is honest and easy to relate to. I want to read her first book after reading this one!

PS. I am Catholic and have never studied buddhism, but I think that the two can work together. If you have never studied buddhism, don't be afraid of this book.

A beautiful book. I'm always looking for ways to be the best person I can be and that includes all of the roles I have...especially mom. I believe that living in the present and being mindful leads to a more fullfilling life no matter what religion you belong to. I had seen this book originally at a local book store but knew I would always get a better price on Amazon! And it arrived quickly after order was placed.

This book is useful for those who aren't practising Buddhists as well. Many mothers would like to be more mindful, and would like to avoid getting so caught up in "busyness" that we miss those amazing little baby moments. This book has useful, practical thoughts to help mothers adjust their perspective to see what is really important. It bridges the gap between Buddhist books that seem written for people who have no distractions in their life and plenty of time for formal meditations and retreats, and the reality of mothers of young children.

wonderfully wise and supportive book for busy moms of all spiritual persuasions -- wish i'd had it when i was younger!