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Mindfulness is clear-sighted attention to the present moment, making it a great gift to the Christian believer who desires a deeper relationship with God. When we cultivate the ability to pay attention, we cultivate the ability to see God and receive divine gifts in each moment. We also cultivate the ability to be fully present to those around us.
The Mindful Christian: Cultivating a Life of Intentionality, Openness, and Faith serves as a guide for those who are curious about how to integrate Christian faith with mindfulness practice. The book offers inspiration for those seeking healing and peace along life's journey, as well as practical exercises for those ready to dive into mindfulness practice. Drawing heavily from Scripture, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) practices, and personal life experiences, the author presents a theologically sound, research-based, personally authentic integration of mindfulness and Christian faith. The book is available to order online through Indiebound.org, Barnesandnoble.com, Amazon.com, and Christianbook.com - or check with your local bookstore! |
Reviews & Endorsements
"Anyone who worries that mindfulness is some kind of stealthy Buddhist practice need not fret. 'I have come to recognize the practice of present-moment awareness as deeply embedded in Scripture and in the Christian tradition,' Kraegel writes. Takeaway: Living in a broken world, where Satan seeks to agitate and exploit our thoughts, Christian mindfulness helps us be 'transformed by the renewing of our minds.'” - click here for full review
"Top 7 Faith-Boosting Books of 2020"
The Banner
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"Clinical psychologist Kraegel defines mindfulness and lays out how Christians can apply it to their daily lives in her useful debut.... Reminding readers that occasional feelings of unhappiness are normal, she provides ways of seeking the goodness of God even in the midst of suffering. Kraegel’s mix of traditions and practices will appeal to Christian readers interested in the benefits of meditation." - click here for full review
Publishers Weekly Review
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"Here is a book you can trust - a beautiful book written with clarity, openness, and wisdom. It will be an important guide for practicing Christians and life-changing for those who want to explore the deep connections between mindfulness and faith. Irene shows what it means to 'show up' for our lives, and how, when we learn to rest in appreciation of the unearned gifts of daily life, we may discover - even in the midst of tragedy and turbulence - moments of profound grace."
Mark Williams, PhD
Emeritus Professor of Clinical Psychology, University of Oxford
Co-founder of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Co-author of Mindfulness: An Eight-Week Plan for Finding Peace in a Frantic World
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"With elegant prose and practical suggestions, The Mindful Christian invites exhausted, distracted Christians to experience emotional healing and rediscover deep joy by practicing mindfulness. If you are looking to practice your faith in a more embodied and compassionate way, look no further."
Steve Wiens
Author of Shining Like the Sun; Beginnings; and Whole
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"I wish Dr. Kraegel's book had been available when I started my own mindfulness journey. A seeker at heart, I was looking for a way to deepen my faith journey with more stillness and presence. The practice of mindfulness became my path and I longed for a guide to help me connect mindfulness to my faith. The Mindful Christian offers an inspiring and practical roadmap for the poignant intersection between stillness and the presence of God. Dr. Kraegel has constructed a sturdy bridge between the two using the practice of mindfulness. She effectively explains mindfulness, dispelling any myths through stories and practical examples, and, therefore, demystifying mindfulness for the faith journey. The Mindful Christian is a relevant guide for infusing life with more presence, joy and compassion."
April Kaiserlian, LMSW
Co-Founder of Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness
Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapist
~
"Kraegel doesn't deny that the world is full of suffering - bigotry, grief, and trauma - or give pat answers to real pain. However, she reminds us of the balm that is with us in the present moment, the one we often run from with distractions. This mindful balm holds deep healing potential that transforms us into better neighbors. The Mindful Christian highlights the crucial role self-compassion and gratitude play in strengthening the follower of Christ who is called to be a witness to the peace of Christ."
Christina Edmondson, PhD
Dean of Intercultural Student Development, Calvin University
Co-host of Truth's Table podcast
"Anyone who worries that mindfulness is some kind of stealthy Buddhist practice need not fret. 'I have come to recognize the practice of present-moment awareness as deeply embedded in Scripture and in the Christian tradition,' Kraegel writes. Takeaway: Living in a broken world, where Satan seeks to agitate and exploit our thoughts, Christian mindfulness helps us be 'transformed by the renewing of our minds.'” - click here for full review
"Top 7 Faith-Boosting Books of 2020"
The Banner
~
"Clinical psychologist Kraegel defines mindfulness and lays out how Christians can apply it to their daily lives in her useful debut.... Reminding readers that occasional feelings of unhappiness are normal, she provides ways of seeking the goodness of God even in the midst of suffering. Kraegel’s mix of traditions and practices will appeal to Christian readers interested in the benefits of meditation." - click here for full review
Publishers Weekly Review
~
"Here is a book you can trust - a beautiful book written with clarity, openness, and wisdom. It will be an important guide for practicing Christians and life-changing for those who want to explore the deep connections between mindfulness and faith. Irene shows what it means to 'show up' for our lives, and how, when we learn to rest in appreciation of the unearned gifts of daily life, we may discover - even in the midst of tragedy and turbulence - moments of profound grace."
Mark Williams, PhD
Emeritus Professor of Clinical Psychology, University of Oxford
Co-founder of Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Co-author of Mindfulness: An Eight-Week Plan for Finding Peace in a Frantic World
~
"With elegant prose and practical suggestions, The Mindful Christian invites exhausted, distracted Christians to experience emotional healing and rediscover deep joy by practicing mindfulness. If you are looking to practice your faith in a more embodied and compassionate way, look no further."
Steve Wiens
Author of Shining Like the Sun; Beginnings; and Whole
~
"I wish Dr. Kraegel's book had been available when I started my own mindfulness journey. A seeker at heart, I was looking for a way to deepen my faith journey with more stillness and presence. The practice of mindfulness became my path and I longed for a guide to help me connect mindfulness to my faith. The Mindful Christian offers an inspiring and practical roadmap for the poignant intersection between stillness and the presence of God. Dr. Kraegel has constructed a sturdy bridge between the two using the practice of mindfulness. She effectively explains mindfulness, dispelling any myths through stories and practical examples, and, therefore, demystifying mindfulness for the faith journey. The Mindful Christian is a relevant guide for infusing life with more presence, joy and compassion."
April Kaiserlian, LMSW
Co-Founder of Grand Rapids Center for Mindfulness
Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapist
~
"Kraegel doesn't deny that the world is full of suffering - bigotry, grief, and trauma - or give pat answers to real pain. However, she reminds us of the balm that is with us in the present moment, the one we often run from with distractions. This mindful balm holds deep healing potential that transforms us into better neighbors. The Mindful Christian highlights the crucial role self-compassion and gratitude play in strengthening the follower of Christ who is called to be a witness to the peace of Christ."
Christina Edmondson, PhD
Dean of Intercultural Student Development, Calvin University
Co-host of Truth's Table podcast