An Artful Path to Mindfulness: MBSR-Based Activities for Using Creativity to Reduce Stress and Embrace the Present Moment Paperback – May 1, 2020

Janet has created an incredible blueprint for all of us looking for a real practical way to lead an authentic life beyond the every day. She is a true artist and sharing her gifts is the way to pay it forward. Thank you for such a thought out workbook embracing the moment.

Step by step, Janet walks us through MBSR activities to develop mindfulness – a stilling of the mind to allow for awareness in the present moment. From this departure point, she focuses her fierce AND gentle determination to link practices of the mind with mark making and full- bodied immersion in the creative moment. She leads us through a labyrinth like path of one’s own creation that is embodied in physical, aesthetic and metaphysical space. Unique, yet grounded in Buddhist thought, An Artful Path To Mindfulness adds to both the cannons of mindfulness and creative literatures by uniquely combining both practices into a seamless whole. Bonnie Saland, founder Philomela Textiles

This is a guidebook that I had been looking for. Starting with a variety of mindfulness practices, I found myself, without my usual anxiety, being able to make "art" (lines, shapes, etc) without worrying about the outcome. That was freeing! My drawings didn't have to be perfect and I could play! What a gift that is. With this book as a guide, I could lose myself in the moment.

“ As a regular practitioner of meditation, and an ardent lover of art, I was intrigued to read Janet Slom’s book when a friend recommended it. A successful artist and highly regarded teacher of Mindful Based Self Expression, Janet seeks to unite the power of mindfulness and personal artistic creativity with a unique, new program of self expression to help us connect with our true inner being and become more aware of the present moment. She succeeded. Written in great depth, variety, and clarity, Janet has created a highly effective road map to improve our way of seeing ourselves and the amazing world around us.”Tucker MaysBusiness Consultant

This book is for everyone. Don't let the title mislead you. You could be an artist seeking a deeper level of creative flow or someone for whom drawing seems an impossible mountain to climb. You could be someone wishing to find a way to reduce stress in your life or someone with an existing meditation practice wanting to vary it and perhaps make it more creative. The ability to be "in the moment" and at peace with ourselves is surely a collective wish. I was fascinated by the range of entry points I found here.The author has invented a brilliant 90-day protocol to help us move in mindful directions.....if you happen to have that kind of time. I don't. Instead I chose to explore the exercises that called out to me, and found in those many warm-hearted and effectual stepping-stones for a path to self-acceptance and peacefulness, and an amazing well of creative imagery. With every mark and squiggle, I grew more awake to an inner aesthetic and to the potential flow of harmony in everyday life. This book is inventive, encouraging, engaging and useful.

I knew Immediately that I was going to love this book at the descriptions of drawing and how different lines and shapes can tell a story, express emotions and so much more.I loved the Abstract style being exhibited here in MBSE (Mindfulness Based Self Expression). The benefits explained were also exciting to read. All the ways it could improve my life flashed before my eyes as I read. Such as how drawing can improve my ability to connect with my true nature and my awareness. Also in being present. All of these have been at the top of my list for areas of focus in my life.I felt so intuitively that I was meant to read this book. I enjoy practicing yoga, body scans, and meditation. In fact, I try to do them everyday. As well as being more creative. I've always felt a deep connection to my creativity and artful expression. With the emphasis on these 2 ways made me really excited to do the work in this book.I liked the italicized informative paragraphs throughout.The exercises were easy and engaging.I would recommend this to everyone.

This is a wonderful book that brings together two core human capacities – awareness and creativity, thru mindfulness and art. The workbook guide for Janet’s 9 week Mindfulness Based Self Expression program. The program skillfully weaves together the practices of mindfulness-based programs (eg, MBSR, MBCT) with various forms of artistic expression. It is easy to follow, simple and filled with stories and anecdotes. Together these have the capacity to foster self-awareness and self-expression that can lead to self-transformation. Recommended for all levels of experience with mindfulness and artistic talent.

I think I am an ideal person to review this book because I have no art talent and no experience with Mindfulness or Meditation, so I start from scratch. I diligently followed the weekly workbook exercises while enjoying the text, and especially the quotations from other experts, and gurus, on the subject. It was quite an inspirational few weeks. Just as the book hoped, each chapter (week) made me slow down, think, and be creative in my responses to daily activities. While it did nothing for my art performance – I am still a bad artist, even drawing leaves a lot to be desired – but that did not matter. After all, as the book tells us, this is personal and no one is going to grade or comment, so relax and don’t be embarrassed by any of the exercises, mental or physical. I recommend this book, especially now in this challenging time when you have an opportunity to just sit and do something new, creative, fun, and good for the soul.Carol Damian, Ph.D.Miami