Stop doing, stop moving, stop twisting and turning. These are the first steps toward inner calm and increased mental clarity, says psychiatrist and leading meditation practitioner Christophe André, whose book guides readers through the art of mindfulness beginning with art itself. Beautifully illustrated in color throughout, André curates a collection of classic and esoteric works, from Rembrandt to Hopper to Magritte, providing a lucid commentary on the inner workings of each painting—as he describes the dynamic on the canvas, he turns to the reader’s own reactions, exploring the connection between what we see and what we feel. Moving beyond the art on the page, André teaches us what it means to consider our surroundings, our daily interactions and obligations, and their effect on our inner well-being. The paintings are a visual and tangible first step to understanding mindfulness and the benefits of living in the moment. In practicing mindfulness, within ourselves and outside in the world, each of us can make immediate, meaningful and permanent changes in our wellbeing and the wellbeing of others.

From paying attention to our breath to accepting unhappiness as a part of life rather than a personal shortcoming, Looking at Mindfulness reminds us to stop rushing through the present and to embrace the things we deem ordinary as important and fulfilling. It challenges us to stop and use our senses – the only five tools we really need – and acknowledge the world around us and within us. Gently and thoughtfully, it reminds us to take notice, to digest, and to reflect.

Beautifully written, wonderfully accessible for any novice or expert, Looking at Mindfulness delivers practical steps and a comprehensive understanding of the practice and meaning of mindfulness and meditation. An authentic and effortless voice, André brings clarity to what it means to live mindfully and how we can make a more conscious effort to do so in our daily lives.