Girl Seeks Bliss
Zen and the Art of Modern Life Maintenance
by Nicole Beland
Nicole Beland, a humble self-proclaimed Buddhist scholar, has spent years studying texts
and attending lectures. The result of her dedication, Girl Seeks Bliss, written
in simple, contemporary language, demystifies this Eastern religion. The guide contains
her learned interpretations, beginning with Buddhism's core concepts: the four noble truths.
The fourth noble truth encourages followers to walk the eight-fold path: eight basic ideals
for living the good life. I had already known of these teachings, but I didn't comprehend
the difference between right understanding, right mindfulness and right contemplation.
Ms. Beland's precise, yet easy to understand clarifications have impressed me.
If you're considering meditation as a stress reliever, Girl Seeks Bliss contains
excellent comprehensive advice. I never before understood the reasoning behind meditating
in a certain location, assuming a specific position, or the value of properly placed pillows.
However, I can now appreciate how these simple gestures convey my intentions to my body
and mind and therefore lead to a more satisfying experience. I, too, experienced "Monkey
Mind," where my thoughts continuously jumped from one of life's branches to another.
Ms. Beland's suggestions about what to concentrate on have already led to increased serenity.
Have you considered yoga as a potential form of exercise? It's not just for the body.
Buddhists have long recognized how the postures-or asanas-encourage self- awareness, balance,
breathing, release, equanimity and compassion. While toning muscles, participants also
benefit from a calmer mind.
Unlike other guides to Buddhism, Girl Seeks Bliss gives readers suggestions on
how to apply the concepts to contemporary life. Buddhist Secrets to Occupational
Bliss might make your job less stressful. The Five Steps to Nookie Nirvana,
which focus on intimacy, not sex, are awesome. And don't miss The Eight-fold Path
to Recognizing a Good Guy on page 90. The author also provides a brief examination
of a few of Buddhism's main schools, a glossary of Buddhist terms, and a list of other
resources that provide in-depth information for specific crises.
Ideally, enlightenment should begin in an atmosphere that encourages self-pampering.
For those of us who cannot trade the daily grind for a spa (recommendations and reviews
included), Girl Seeks Bliss offers compassionate encouragement while we attempt
to replace our convoluted thoughts with true sensory awareness. Though not an easy task,
our minds and bodies will thank us for persevering. I thank Ms. Beland for making my
attempt much easier. |
The Book |
Plume / Penguin Putnam |
May 31, 2005 |
Paperback |
0452285771 |
Nonfiction / Inspirational |
More
at Amazon.com |
Excerpt |
NOTE: Some profanity |
The Reviewer |
Lynda E. Lukow |
Reviewed 2005 |
NOTE: |
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