Happiness is far more than a positive feeling that comes and goes, happiness is wired into the physiology of our brains. It is a skill we can all develop through cultivating mindfulness and concentration. In 'Ten Breaths to Happiness' Schneider presents a series of simple practices and guided meditations that allow you to literally rewire your neural pathways to experience deeper and more lasting fulfillment and peace. Studies in neuroscience show that it takes about thirty seconds to build a new neural-pathway. Schneider takes these findings and combines them with mindfulness practices based on the teachings of Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh. For example, he encourages us to take ten conscious breaths whenever we encounter something beautiful or have a meaningful experience. Consistently exercising this simple practice creates an opportunity for the brain to move from its default reaction of protection to one of appreciation and spaciousness. About the Author: Glen Schneider is a graduate of Harvard College in Cambridge, Massachusetts. As a naturalist/gardener, he has specialized in ecosystem restoration through the planting of local native plants. As a Zen teacher he is the founder of the Buckeye Sangha in Berkeley, California and in 2011 was ordained as a Dharma teacher by Thich Nhat Hanh. Glen was a contributing editor to Thich Nhat Hanh's 'Reconciliation: Healing the Inner Child', and is currently writing 'Touching the Earth: A Field Guide to East Bay Natural History'. He lives in Berkeley, CA. Jason DeAntonis is an award-winning sculptor and visual artist. His illustrations have appeared in many children's books including 'Making Space' by Thich Nhat Hanh and 'Little Pilgrim' by Ko Un (both from Parallax Press). jasondeantonis.com Thich Nhat Hanh is one of the best-known Zen Buddhist teachers in the world today. His best-selling books include 'Happiness' and 'Peace Is Every Step'. He lives in Plum Village, in Southwest France, where he gardens, writes and teaches on the art of mindful living. |