Meditation and mindfulness for beginners

Meditation is a type of mind-body or relaxation therapy. It can help you cope with everyday life, reduce stress and improve your overall wellbeing.

Meditation can be done anywhere, and you do not need much time. Your local library has plenty of resources to help you get started!

Books

Meditation: coming to know your mind by Matteo Pistono (2017)

A practical, step-by-step guide to meditation, suitable for beginners as well as those wishing to refresh their knowledge. Matteo shares the essence of the many teachings and practices he learned during 20 years’ study under eminent teachers in Nepal, India, Tibet and Thailand. Learn how to: develop a daily meditation practice; connect the body and mind with body-scanning meditation; integrate mindfulness awareness into everyday life; meditate while walking, drinking tea, eating and in daily life.

Mindfulness and meditation: handling life with a calm and focused mind by Whitney Stewart (2020)

From hormones to homework, parents to peers, health issues to bad habits, life can be full of anxiety. How can we find relief? This book introduces readers to the practice of mindfulness, or purposefully focusing attention on the present moment. With roots in ancient Buddhist teachings, mindfulness can change a person’s approach to stress, promote skills to handle anxiety and depression, and provide a sense of awareness and belonging. Learn how to get started with specific exercises for examining emotions, managing stress, checking social media habits, and setting intentions to increase happiness.

The new happiness: practices for spiritual growth and living with intention by Matthew McKay PhD (2019)

We all want to be happy, but how do we achieve it? This workbook blends spiritual wisdom with evidence-based psychological practices to help you achieve lasting fulfillment. Most of us are searching for happiness in one form or another, but the happiness we’ve been conditioned to pursue is often elusive and fleeting. When we base our happiness on what we have – such as material possessions or recognition from others – our happiness is no longer in our control. This workbook will show you that happiness is not about accumulating and consuming, or achieving some deep state of spiritual bliss. Instead, you’ll find a new perspective on how to achieve real contentment rooted in spiritual values and actions. Every moment of your life is an opportunity – why not start now? 

Audiobooks

Treasury of mindfulness: how to rest in the quiet heart of calm by Paddy Brosnan (2020)

From author and mindfulness expert, Paddy Brosnan this collection of simple yet precious resources will enhance your life and everyday experiences. Open this treasure chest to find whatever you might need at a given moment. In the process, discover lots of other unexpected, delightful and useful ideas for living mindfully. 

Loving kindness meditation by Gillian Ross (2019)

Our mentally active lifestyles can make meditation seem appealing, but difficult. With this in mind, Gillian begins each of the two half-hour sessions on this CD with a deep relaxation practice that you are invited to do lying down. Releasing physical stress in your body and slowing down your mental activity helps prepare you for sitting meditation practice. These beautiful meditations are inspired by classic Buddhist techniques for stilling your mind and finding inner peace and joy that awakens compassion for all beings. Suitable for both beginners and experienced meditators.

For kids

Goodnight, toes by Justine Adams (2021)

It’s time to rest your head down on your soft marshmallow pillow, relax along your long, comfy bed and snuggle in tight under your doona. Then we say, “Goodnight toes! Thanks for all the wiggling. Goodnight bum! Thanks for giving me somewhere comfy to sit. Goodnight arms! Thanks for giving big, loving hugs.” A warm and dreamy book perfect for winding down before bed, Goodnight, Toes is a gentle meditation on all the wonderful things our bodies and minds can do.

Calm kids: help children relax with mindful activities by Lorraine E. Murray (2012)

Stress and behavioural disorders are common in children, who are increasingly bombarded by marketing campaigns, faced with school and peer pressure, and able to sense the stress of adults around them. Mindfulness and meditation can help children recognise and cope with these pressures, giving them simple tools to deal with stress throughout life. This practical and inspiring book shows parents, teachers and youth workers how to lead fun and peaceful meditation sessions with children.

Mindful music moments: nursery rhymes, dances and crafts to do together by Abi Tompkins (2021)

This illustrated collection of well-loved nursery rhymes is jam-packed with lots of magical mindful music moments for children and their families. Sing the songs, learn the actions and find mindfulness in music, interaction and noisy play.

Online courses

LinkedIn Learning offers unlimited online training, FREE with your Western Downs Libraries Membership. Learn the latest skills with bite sized tutorials or comprehensive courses on hundreds of topics. Find out how to access LinkedIn Learning using your membership here.

• Mindfulness for Beginners

• Mindfulness at Work: The Basics

• Mindfulness Practices

Meditation workshops at Western Downs Libraries

Incorporate meditation and mindfulness into your life with this FREE beginner workshop for teens and adults. Bookings essential.

Come as you are, release stress, anxiety, and mental clutter to live a calmer life!

• Dalby Library:  Saturday 12 February, 10.00-11.00am
• Wandoan Library: Monday 14 February, 3.30-4.30pm
• Meandarra Library: Wednesday 16 February, 10.00-11.00am
• Chinchilla Library: Saturday 19 February, 10.00-11.00am
• Moonie Library: Wednesday 23 February, 10.00-11.00am
• Chinchilla Library: Saturday 26 February, 10.00-11.00am

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