Christian Mindfulness: Theology and Practice

Many Christian commentators have been taken aback by the seemingly unstoppable rise of the ‘mindfulness revolution’ that has occurred over the past decade. But there are many Christians who worry that mindfulness techniques constitute a covert import from Buddhism. How far are Christians adopting Buddhist techniques, ideas and ideologies? Do we risk squaring Buddhist ideology and approaches to fit the Christian circle? Beginning with an exploration of the practice of mindfulness in its Buddhist origins, Peter Tyler reflects on the practical use of mindfulness, its place within the Christian tradition of prayer, and its future within the Christian tradition. Tyler argues that far from a foreign import mindfulness is not only endemic but essential to the Christian understanding of how the human person relates to the divine. Each chapter concludes with practical exercises to help the reader in their understanding of mindfulness in the Christian context.

Table of Contents:
A Prologue Out of Silence Abbreviations 1. Mindfulness or Heartfulness? 2. The Mindful Psychology of the Desert 3. The Iberian School of Mindfulness and Mental Prayer 4. The Mindful Way – St Teresa of Avila and St John of the Cross 5. Thomas Merton – Mindful Clarity of Heart 6. Living a Mindful Life – The Indian Tradition Epilogue

About the Author :
Peter Tyler is Professor of Pastoral Theology and Spirituality at St Mary’s University, London. He is the author of numerous books, most recently The Pursuit of the Soul: Psychoanalysis, Soul-making and the Christian Tradition (Edinburgh: T & T Clark, 2016)

Review :
...a unique book. It is both about finding mindfulness in Christian prayer and Christian prayer in mindfulness. It is a conversational meeting of Buddhist meditation and Trinitarian prayer. In many ways it is not about mindfulness at all. It is about heartfulness. Read and pray! "Professor Tyler draws on his considerable reading and experience to explore the vital role of prayer and meditation in the complex and troubled world in which we live today” 'This book has detail and depth and is well worth reading. Action is important for the Christian but via Mindfulness ‘we can have a glimpse of the treasure hidden in the field, the pearl of great price.’ 'Peter Tyler sets the standard for any book intended for the beginning or more advanced reader seeking an understanding of the traditions, theology, psychology, scripture, and prayerful and attentive practice of Christian mindfulness. Within Tyler's book one finds the "mind" and "heart" of Christian mindfulness in the contemporary world. It is an excellent, highly recommended book, one of both scholarship and wisdom.'