Author: Martin Boroson
Price: £6.99
Publisher: Rider
Pages: 190
ISBN: 1846040558
This was an intriguing book. I read it in about half a day, but if you followed the advice of the author and completed the practices recommended, it would take you between six and eight weeks just to complete chapter one.
The focus of the book is on how to generate a minute’s calmness in otherwise busy days by developing a semi-meditational skill to practise for 60 seconds at a time. As the book progresses, this minute (with practice) shortens to the time it takes to draw a single breath, and then shortens even further to a moment of stillness.
I found the book an easy read, and a very timely and helpful reminder that no matter how many people are making demands on my time (whether in person or electronically), I can gain benefit from taking time out to literally draw breath and take stock for a minute.
Later sections of the book focus on various attitudes to time and timekeeping, and draw reference from various religions and philosophies.
The closing chapters look at a variety of situations in which this ‘moment of stillness, calm and inner peace’ can be found. It was at this point that I felt the advice being given was becoming overtly spiritual, and as such it will not suit all readers.
However, I found the opening chapter and the benefits of finding ‘a minute of stillness’ during your day to be a useful reminder of the importance of good self-management techniques.
Useful? Three out of five stars
Well-written? Three out of five stars
Practical? Two out of five stars
Inspirational? Three out of five stars
Value for money? Three out of five stars
Overall? Three out of five stars
Reviewed by Sue Chew, director of organisational development, EDF Energy
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