January 29, 2018
This practical handbook uses acronyms to introduce mindful techniques. Biegel, a psychotherapist, begins with PAWS (“pay attention with senses”), which emphasizes using the five senses to maintain awareness. Next, she introduces “self-CARE” (“compassion, acceptance, respect, esteem”), urging readers to find joy through hobbies, music, “down time,” and gratitude. Finally, Biegel includes strategies for communicating purposefully and meaningfully, explored through the acronym of ACORN (“always considering other responses now”). Mindfulness, Biegel suggests, is not a series of steps to follow but a constellation of tactics for finding clarity and security, even amid overwhelming circumstances. By avoiding a prescriptive tone, Biegel offers an intuitive resource for readers seeking to gain greater control over their emotions and perceptions. Ages 13–up.