Aligned, Relaxed, Resilient : The Physical Foundations of Mindfulness

Rating:
Summary: An overlooked classic
Review: This is by far one of the best books on mindfulness meditation available, although you wouldn't know it from a cursory review of the book, nor from the lack of attention it has received from reviewers. Starting from the principles of meditation posture (being aligned, relaxed, and resilient), the author moves into a discussion of mindfulness in daily life and how these principles apply as we embody mindfulness in daily life. A particular strength of this book is his focus on mindfulness of the body. It is a common misconception (even among those of us who should know better) that spirituality is about transcending the body, senses and emotions. Will Johnson shows how mindfulness of the body, senses and emotions is a gateway to profound, subtle-level experience. I can't recommend this book highly enough. On a side note, following the principles in this book has substantially reduced the physical pain I experience while sitting on retreats.