Meditation is a practice that has been around for centuries and has been gaining popularity in recent years. With its numerous benefits, such as reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus and concentration, and promoting overall well-being, it’s no surprise that many people are interested in learning how to meditate. One way to learn about meditation is through reading books on the topic.
When it comes to finding the best books on meditation, there are a few things to consider. First, it’s important to determine what type of meditation you are interested in learning. There are many different types of meditation, such as mindfulness, transcendental, and loving-kindness, to name a few. Each type has its own unique approach and benefits, so it’s essential to choose a book that aligns with your interests.
Another factor to consider is the author’s credentials. Look for books written by experts in the field of meditation, such as meditation teachers, psychologists, or neuroscientists. This will ensure that you are getting accurate and reliable information.
In our search for the best books on meditation, we considered these factors and more. We spent hours researching and testing various books to identify the ones that are most helpful for beginners and experienced meditators alike.
Top 3 Best Books on Meditation
1. Meditations
We understand that meditation is a powerful tool for relaxation, focus, and mindfulness. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner, finding the right book can help deepen your understanding and enhance your practice. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best books on meditation to help guide you on your journey. From classic texts to modern interpretations, our selection covers a range of styles and approaches to meditation. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best books on meditation.
Meditations
We highly recommend purchasing Meditations by Marcus Aurelius for anyone looking to dive into the world of meditation.
Pros
- Easy to read and understand
- Short and to the point
- Provides practical advice for daily life
Cons
- Limited in scope
- Not very detailed
- May not be suitable for advanced meditators
Meditations is a great book for beginners who are looking for a simple and straightforward introduction to meditation. The book is easy to read and provides practical advice that can be applied to daily life.
The author, Marcus Aurelius, was a Roman emperor who practiced Stoicism and wrote Meditations as a collection of personal reflections. The book is divided into 12 chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of life.
In the first chapter, Aurelius discusses the importance of living in the present moment and not worrying about the past or future. He also emphasizes the importance of being mindful of our thoughts and actions.
The following chapters cover topics such as dealing with adversity, accepting death, and living a virtuous life. Aurelius provides practical advice and insights that are still relevant today.
Overall, Meditations is a great book for anyone looking to start their meditation journey. It is short, easy to read, and provides practical advice that can be applied to daily life.
Meditations on Intention and Being: Daily Reflections on the Path of Yoga, Mindfulness, and Compassion (Anchor Books Original)
If you’re looking for a book that offers daily reflections on the path of yoga, mindfulness, and compassion, then Meditations on Intention and Being is a great option.
Pros
- The book is written by Rolf Gates, who is a highly respected yoga teacher and author.
- The daily reflections are short and easy to read, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
- The book offers guidance on how to live a more intentional and mindful life.
Cons
- Some readers may find the daily reflections to be too simplistic or repetitive.
- The book may not be suitable for those who are looking for a more in-depth exploration of yoga and mindfulness.
- The book is only available in paperback format.
Overall, we highly recommend Meditations on Intention and Being for anyone who is looking for a daily source of inspiration and guidance on the path of yoga, mindfulness, and compassion.
In this book, Rolf Gates offers 365 short essays that provide insights and practical advice on how to live a more intentional and mindful life. Each reflection is designed to be read one day at a time, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
One of the things we love about this book is that it is written in a very accessible and relatable style. Gates draws on his own experiences as a yoga teacher and practitioner, and he offers insights that are both practical and inspiring.
The book is also beautifully designed, with each reflection accompanied by a quote and a short practice that you can do throughout the day. This makes it easy to put the teachings of the book into practice in your daily life.
Overall, we think that Meditations on Intention and Being is a great book for anyone who is looking to deepen their understanding of yoga, mindfulness, and compassion. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or just starting out on your journey, this book is sure to offer you insights and inspiration that will help you live a more intentional and mindful life.
The Best Meditations on the Planet: 100 Techniques to Beat Stress, Improve Health, and Create Happiness-In Just Minutes A Day
We highly recommend The Best Meditations on the Planet for anyone looking to improve their mental and emotional wellbeing through meditation.
Pros
- The book offers 100 different meditation techniques, making it easy to find one that works for you.
- The techniques are designed to be quick and easy, perfect for those with busy schedules.
- The book includes illustrations and step-by-step instructions to ensure you are doing each technique correctly.
Cons
- Some of the techniques may not be suitable for everyone, and it may take some trial and error to find the ones that work best for you.
- The book is focused on meditation techniques and does not provide much background information on the practice of meditation itself.
- The book is somewhat dated, having been published in 2011, and some of the information may be less relevant today.
If you are looking for a practical guide to help you get started with meditation or to expand your existing practice, The Best Meditations on the Planet is an excellent choice. The book offers a wide variety of techniques to suit different needs and preferences, and the step-by-step instructions make it easy to get started. While some of the techniques may not work for everyone, the book is well worth checking out for anyone interested in the benefits of meditation.
The book begins with an introduction that explains the benefits of meditation and provides some tips for getting started. It then goes on to present the 100 different techniques, organized by category (such as stress relief, emotional healing, and spiritual connection). Each technique is presented with a brief description, step-by-step instructions, and an illustration to help you understand how to do it. The book concludes with a brief afterword and a list of resources for further exploration.
Overall, we found The Best Meditations on the Planet to be a clear and practical guide to meditation, well-suited for beginners and experienced meditators alike. While there are some limitations to the book, such as its focus on techniques rather than the broader practice of meditation, we believe that it is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their mental and emotional wellbeing through meditation.
Yoga: Your Ultimate Beginner’s Guide On How To Use Yoga To Maximize Weight Loss And Live The Stress-Free Life Of Your Dreams!
If you’re looking for a basic guide to start your yoga practice, then Yoga: Your Ultimate Beginner’s Guide On How To Use Yoga To Maximize Weight Loss And Live The Stress-Free Life Of Your Dreams! is a great option.
Pros
- The author explains the basic knowledge of yoga in a simple and easy-to-understand manner.
- The book contains short, effective sequences that are practical for beginners.
- It provides different programs for weight loss, making it a great option for those looking to lose weight.
Cons
- The book is brief and does not provide comprehensive information on all the different types of yoga practice.
- It contains very few pictures, making it difficult to follow along with the poses.
- It is not a guide on how to begin yoga, but rather a guide on why to begin.
We found Yoga: Your Ultimate Beginner’s Guide On How To Use Yoga To Maximize Weight Loss And Live The Stress-Free Life Of Your Dreams! to be a good introduction to yoga. The author spells everything out for you on the flows you should be practicing to hit your goals. However, it is not a comprehensive guide, and it may not be the best option for those looking for a detailed guide on how to begin yoga.
In summary, if you’re a true beginner looking for a basic guide to start your yoga practice, then Yoga: Your Ultimate Beginner’s Guide On How To Use Yoga To Maximize Weight Loss And Live The Stress-Free Life Of Your Dreams! is a great option. However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive guide on all the different types of yoga practice, then you may want to consider other options.
The Daily Stoic: 366 Meditations on Wisdom, Perseverance, and the Art of Living
If you want to cultivate a daily meditation practice that focuses on wisdom, perseverance, and the art of living, The Daily Stoic is a great book to have in your collection.
Pros
- The book is well-organized and offers a daily meditation for every day of the year, making it easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
- The meditations are grounded in ancient Stoic philosophy but are presented in a modern, accessible way that is easy to understand and apply to your life.
- The book is beautifully designed and printed, with a sturdy hardcover and high-quality paper that feels great to hold and read.
Cons
- The book can be repetitive at times, especially if you read it cover to cover, as many of the meditations cover similar themes and ideas.
- Some readers may find the book’s focus on Stoic philosophy too narrow or limiting, especially if they are looking for a more broad-based approach to meditation and mindfulness.
- The book’s daily format can be both a pro and a con, as some readers may find it helpful to have a structured daily practice, while others may prefer a more flexible approach to meditation.
Overall, we highly recommend The Daily Stoic to anyone looking to deepen their meditation practice and explore the wisdom of ancient philosophy in a modern context. Whether you’re a seasoned meditator or just starting out, this book offers valuable insights and practical guidance for living a more mindful, purposeful life.
Practicing Mindfulness: 75 Essential Meditations to Reduce Stress, Improve Mental Health, and Find Peace in the Everyday
If you’re looking for a beginner’s guide to mindfulness meditation, Practicing Mindfulness: 75 Essential Meditations to Reduce Stress, Improve Mental Health, and Find Peace in the Everyday is a great place to start.
Pros
- The book provides clear and concise instructions for each meditation.
- The meditations are short and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
- The book covers a wide range of mindfulness practices, including breathing exercises, body scans, and loving-kindness meditations.
Cons
- Some readers may find the meditations too brief and not in-depth enough.
- The book is geared more towards beginners and may not provide enough new information for those with an established practice.
- The book may not be as useful for those looking for a more spiritual or religious approach to meditation.
We found that Practicing Mindfulness was a great introduction to mindfulness meditation. The meditations were easy to follow and didn’t require a lot of time or effort. We especially appreciated the variety of practices covered in the book, which allowed us to experiment and find what worked best for us.
The book is also well-organized, with each meditation clearly labeled and easy to find. The instructions are straightforward and easy to understand, even for those new to meditation.
That being said, some readers may find the meditations too brief and not in-depth enough. The book is geared more towards beginners and may not provide enough new information for those with an established practice. Additionally, the book may not be as useful for those looking for a more spiritual or religious approach to meditation.
Overall, if you’re looking for a beginner’s guide to mindfulness meditation, Practicing Mindfulness: 75 Essential Meditations to Reduce Stress, Improve Mental Health, and Find Peace in the Everyday is a great choice.
God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs
If you are looking for a comprehensive daily devotional book that provides insightful messages, then God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs by Tim Keller is a great choice.
Pros
- The book is well-written and provides deep insight into the Book of Proverbs.
- The daily devotions are just the right length and are full of meaningful messages.
- The questions at the end of each day’s reading are thought-provoking and encourage self-reflection.
Cons
- The book is quite lengthy, with 400 pages, which may be overwhelming for some readers.
- The devotions may be too religious for some readers who are not interested in a Christian perspective.
- The book is only focused on the Book of Proverbs, which may not be appealing to readers who are looking for a more general meditation book.
We have found that God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs is a great daily devotional book that provides insightful messages and encourages self-reflection. The book is well-written and the daily devotions are just the right length. However, the book is quite lengthy and may be overwhelming for some readers. Additionally, the book is only focused on the Book of Proverbs, which may not be appealing to readers who are looking for a more general meditation book.
Overall, if you are looking for a Christian-focused daily devotional book that provides insightful messages and encourages self-reflection, then God’s Wisdom for Navigating Life: A Year of Daily Devotions in the Book of Proverbs is a great choice.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Simple Techniques to Instantly Be Happier, Find Inner Peace, and Improve Your Life
If you’re looking for a quick and easy read that breaks down the basics of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), then this book is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Simple and straightforward explanations of CBT techniques
- Offers practical tips and strategies for managing anxiety and depression
- Provides helpful exercises and worksheets to apply CBT principles in daily life
Cons
- May not be in-depth enough for those seeking a more comprehensive understanding of CBT
- Some readers may find the writing style too simplistic or repetitive
- Not a substitute for professional therapy or medical treatment
We found this book to be a useful resource for anyone looking to learn more about CBT and how it can be applied to improve mental health and well-being. The author does a great job of breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-understand language and providing practical examples and exercises to help readers apply CBT principles in their daily lives.
One thing to keep in mind is that this book is not intended to be a substitute for professional therapy or medical treatment. However, it can be a helpful supplement to those seeking to better understand and manage their mental health.
Overall, we recommend this book for anyone looking for a quick and easy introduction to CBT techniques and strategies for managing anxiety and depression.
Ask Yourself. Understand and Unlock Your Psychic Power for Personal & Planetary Healing
We highly recommend purchasing Ask Yourself. Understand and Unlock Your Psychic Power for Personal & Planetary Healing if you want to develop your intuition and psychic abilities.
Pros
- The book is well-written, clear, and easy to follow.
- The exercises are practical and effective.
- The author is experienced and knowledgeable in the field.
Cons
- The book is relatively short, with only 208 pages.
- The focus is more on developing psychic abilities rather than meditation specifically.
- The book may not be suitable for those who are skeptical about psychic abilities.
Ask Yourself. Understand and Unlock Your Psychic Power for Personal & Planetary Healing is a great guide for anyone interested in developing their intuition and psychic abilities. The book is well-written and easy to follow, with practical exercises that are effective in deepening one’s intuition. The author, Pam Coronado, is an experienced psychic detective and teacher, and her expertise shines through in the book.
One of the main strengths of the book is the practicality of the exercises. They are easy to follow and incorporate into daily life, and readers can see results quickly. The book is also well-organized and clear, making it easy to understand even for those who are new to the subject.
However, the book is relatively short, with only 208 pages, and may not be suitable for those looking for a more in-depth exploration of psychic abilities. Additionally, the focus is more on developing psychic abilities rather than meditation specifically, which may not be what some readers are looking for. Finally, the book may not be suitable for those who are skeptical about psychic abilities, as it assumes a belief in their existence.
Overall, we highly recommend Ask Yourself. Understand and Unlock Your Psychic Power for Personal & Planetary Healing for anyone interested in developing their intuition and psychic abilities. The book is well-written, practical, and effective, and the author’s expertise and experience make it a valuable resource for anyone looking to explore this fascinating subject.
The Art of Positive Thinking
We highly recommend purchasing The Art of Positive Thinking for anyone looking to develop mindfulness and overcome negative thoughts.
Pros
- Provides practical strategies to replace negative thinking patterns with positive ones
- Backed by facts and research, making it a reliable resource
- Relevant to current times, with mental health and wellbeing being a pressing issue
Cons
- Some readers may find the content repetitive or basic
- Not suitable for those who prefer a more spiritual approach to meditation
- May not be as effective for those with severe mental health issues
The Art of Positive Thinking by Elizabeth R. Brown is a self-help book that aims to help readers develop mindfulness and overcome negative thoughts. The book is well-organized and provides practical strategies to replace negative thinking patterns with positive ones. It is backed by facts and research, making it a reliable resource.
One of the book’s strengths is its relevance to current times, with mental health and wellbeing being a pressing issue. The author’s insights are not only enlightening but also practical, making it easier for readers to apply them in their daily lives.
However, some readers may find the content repetitive or basic, especially if they have already read other self-help books. Additionally, the book may not be suitable for those who prefer a more spiritual approach to meditation. It may also not be as effective for those with severe mental health issues.
Overall, The Art of Positive Thinking is a valuable resource for those looking to develop mindfulness and overcome negative thoughts. It provides practical strategies and is backed by research, making it a reliable and worthwhile purchase.
Meditations on the Tarot: A Journey into Christian Hermeticism
We highly recommend purchasing Meditations on the Tarot: A Journey into Christian Hermeticism if you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to meditation.
Pros
- The book is written in the form of 22 letters, with each letter pertaining to one of the 22 Major Arcana or Trumps of the Tarot.
- The author does an excellent job of connecting the dots on all kinds of things that you may have wanted to know.
- Highly advanced thinking on the spiritual path is demonstrated by the author.
Cons
- The book is cryptically written and would require multiple reads over time to extract the honey and get past the dross.
- The Tarot was designed as a pictographic encryption of the great arcanum and was meant to be.
- The reader should be aware of the background to the book which was written by Valentin Tomberg.
- allergic to hemp or any of the other ingredients
Meditations on the Tarot: A Journey into Christian Hermeticism is a 688-page paperback book that was published on June 10, 2002, by TarcherPerigee. The book is written in English and has a dimension of 5.97 x 1.58 x 8.97 inches, and it weighs 1.6 pounds. The book is part of the Element Classic series and is ranked as one of the best-sellers in the books category on Amazon.
The book is an excellent guide to meditation, and it is recommended for anyone looking to learn more about the spiritual path. The book is written in the form of 22 letters, with each letter pertaining to one of the 22 Major Arcana or Trumps of the Tarot. The author does an excellent job of connecting the dots on all kinds of things that you may have wanted to know. Highly advanced thinking on the spiritual path is demonstrated by the author.
On the downside, the book is cryptically written and would require multiple reads over time to extract the honey and get past the dross. The Tarot was designed as a pictographic encryption of the great arcanum and was meant to be. The reader should be aware of the background to the book which was written by Valentin Tomberg.
In conclusion, Meditations on the Tarot: A Journey into Christian Hermeticism is an excellent book that is highly recommended for anyone looking to learn more about meditation. The book is well-written and provides a comprehensive guide to the spiritual path.
Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day
We highly recommend “Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day” by Jay Shetty. This audiobook offers a transformative guide to finding happiness and fulfillment by adopting the mindset of a monk.
Pros
- Jay Shetty shares his personal stories and lessons learned during his time as a monk, providing valuable insights and practical wisdom for a more mindful and purposeful life.
- The audiobook provides clear, simple instructions for living a more fulfilling life, including meditation tips and techniques.
- Jay Shetty’s inspiring and positive message is delivered with authenticity and kindness, making it easy to connect with and apply to your own life.
Cons
- Some readers may find the content to be repetitive or overly simplistic.
- The book may not be suitable for those who are not interested in meditation or spirituality.
- The audiobook may not be the best format for those who prefer to read rather than listen to a book.
In “Think Like a Monk,” Jay Shetty takes readers on a journey of self-discovery, sharing his own experiences and insights gained from his time as a monk. Through his teachings, readers will learn how to find peace and purpose in their own lives by adopting the mindset of a monk.
The audiobook is well-narrated by Jay Shetty himself, making it easy to connect with the author’s message. The content is delivered in a clear and concise manner, making it easy to apply to your own life.
Overall, we highly recommend “Think Like a Monk: Train Your Mind for Peace and Purpose Every Day” to anyone who is interested in meditation, spirituality, or personal growth.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best book on meditation, there are a few key features to consider to ensure a worthwhile investment. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Content
First and foremost, consider the content of the book. Does it cover the type of meditation you’re interested in? Is it suitable for beginners or more advanced practitioners? Look for books with clear and concise instructions, as well as practical tips and exercises to help you deepen your practice.
Author’s Credentials
It’s important to consider the author’s credentials when choosing a book on meditation. Look for authors who have experience and knowledge in the field, such as certified meditation teachers or experienced practitioners. This will ensure that you’re getting reliable information and guidance.
Reviews
Reading reviews from other readers can be helpful in determining the quality of a book. Look for books with high ratings and positive reviews, as this can be a good indicator of its effectiveness and usefulness.
Format
Consider the format of the book as well. Do you prefer a physical book or an e-book? Do you want a book with illustrations or photographs to help guide you through the practice? Make sure to choose a format that suits your preferences and needs.
By taking these factors into consideration, you can find the best book on meditation for your needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 4 states of meditation?
The four states of meditation are:
- Conscious Relaxation
- Inner Awakening
- Contemplation
- Pure Consciousness
What are the 7 states of meditation?
The seven states of meditation are:
- Mindfulness
- Concentration
- Contemplation
- Transcendence
- Rejuvenation
- Illumination
- Liberation
Can you learn meditation from a book?
Yes, it is possible to learn meditation from a book. However, it is important to find a book that is written by a reputable author and provides clear instructions on the meditation techniques.
Are there any good books on meditation?
Yes, there are many good books on meditation available. It is important to choose a book that is written by an experienced meditation teacher and provides clear instructions on the meditation techniques.
Best books on meditation and mindfulness?
Some of the best books on meditation and mindfulness include:
- “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle
- “Mindfulness in Plain English” by Bhante Henepola Gunaratana
- “The Miracle of Mindfulness” by Thich Nhat Hanh
- “Real Happiness” by Sharon Salzberg
- “10% Happier” by Dan Harris
Best-selling meditation books?
Some of the best-selling meditation books include:
- “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle
- “Mindfulness in Plain English” by Bhante Henepola Gunaratana
- “The Miracle of Mindfulness” by Thich Nhat Hanh
- “Real Happiness” by Sharon Salzberg
- “10% Happier” by Dan Harris