In essence, accepting emotions is preferable to fighting them. Several sections also talk about emotional regulation. Yet another is being mindful of the words we use when speaking, and how they impact us and others. Another is mindful eating, being thankful for the food and considering its journey. One example is smiling when you wake up and at everyone you encounter. Thich Nhat Hanh also suggests a number of other ways for increasing happiness. Finding Peace : Happiness & Emotional Regulation Slowing down our thinking clarifies our experience, which is often better than we are projecting in the moment. If we’re too focused on the past or future, we’re likely to be frustrated we have to do these tasks at all. If we’re mindful, these activities can be pleasant. Thich suggests tasks like washing the dishes or driving as excellent opportunities to ground ourselves. We can increase awareness and mindfulness in a large number of activities. We can refocus on what’s important, without letting our thoughts overcome us. Each time we do so, we bring ourselves back to the current moment. The book then dives in a series of exercises for increasing mindfulness in daily life. When we slow down and focus on what’s around us, we get a clearer picture of what’s important. Since we only exist in the present, focusing too much outside our current circumstances can create unhappiness. The book starts by discussing why mindfulness is important.

Thich Nhat Hanh was a monk and wrote this book to share his experience and teachings. The sections tie together through mindfulness, but you’ll notice a distinct switch in content during the second half.

The first focuses on mindfulness, the second on peace activism and increased empathy for others. Those sections are full of metaphors and small, digestible sub-sections. Peace is Every Step is a nice simple, easy introduction to both mindfulness and meditation. Anyone should be able to pick this up and get the concepts. Language is simple and clear with lots of examples. Also those who want to hear personal stories as arguments for increasing kindness in the world. Peace is Every Step is best for those looking for a soft, simple introduction to mindfulness and meditation.

Peace Is Every Step by Thich Nhat Hanh