Are you interested in meditating? Meditation brings numerous benefits—it reduces stress, alleviates anxiety, increases happiness, and improves self-awareness.
The good thing is that starting meditating is easier than ever.
With so many incredible videos for guided meditations and books, you can quickly begin your meditation journey and find your way to inner peace.
In this post, we will share some of the best meditation books for beginners and experts to motivate and inspire you to improve your mental health. These books can help you achieve a happier and healthier lifestyle.
8 Best Meditation Books for Happiness and Peace
Both beginners and experts have trouble setting up a meditation routine. One of the main reasons is the busy schedule and way of life we lead today.
Luckily, these books will convince you that it is essential to find time for yourself. So, whether you are a beginner with zero meditation experience or an expert lacking motivation, give these books a try.
#1. What the Buddha Taught by Walpola Rahula
What the Buddha Taught is one of the best meditation books due to the valuable philosophies and principles of Buddhism, based on practicality and reality.
If you’ve been interested in learning more about Buddhism, this book will open doors for you.
Besides helpful information, the book also features beautiful illustrations to help the reader understand the concepts. The book’s approach is accessible to both newcomers and experienced meditators.
#2. Mindfulness in Plain English by Henepola Gunaratana
The book is written by Henepola Gunaratana, a Buddhist monk who introduces you to the basics of Buddhism.
The book is easy and simple to understand.
The meditation teacher or Gunaratana believes the best way to explain something to someone is through simple and plain words.
He also thinks that people are afraid to start meditating because they believe it is challenging to start.
People need simple instructions, which Gunaratana patiently provides in this book.
#3. The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama
We all seek happiness in this world.
Whether it is in the simple things we do every day or in the grander moments that mark a pivotal shift in life, our earnest quest for happiness is what defines us.
So, who better to seek advice from than the master Dalai Lama?
For those may not be familiar, the Dalai Lama is one of Tibet’s most influential spiritual leaders. During the Tibetan uprising in 1959, he escaped to India, where he currently lives in exile.
According to the master, happiness isn’t only about trying to be happy or making things that make you happy.
Instead, it is about identifying and quelling the negative thoughts that intrude upon our minds and prohibit us from being joyful.
In this book, you will read interviews with the Dalai Lama and his views on achieving happiness in your everyday life. Even if you aren’t into Buddhism, this book offers insights anyone can benefit from.
#4. Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki
Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind was first published in the 70s, and it is a compilation of the teachings and methods of Shunryu Suzuki.
When it was first published, people were amazed by the straightforward advice and practice of meditation that help you lead a happier and healthier life.
The book teaches novices and experts about what Zen meditation is and the benefits this practice offers. Suzuki starts with the basic principles of breathing and posture and gradually progresses to non-duality.
You will also learn about the essence of Zen meditation and why people would do well to remember this practice.
#5. Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn
Wherever You Go, There You Are offers a roadmap for practicing meditation every day.
It is perfect for beginners and people who have previous experience with meditation practices. Some say it is one of the best meditation books due to the thorough explanation of the main principles regarding mindfulness.
You will find an easy-to-follow guide and practical tips you can start implementing immediately.
This book is a must-read for people seeking inner peace and methods for improving their mental health.
#6. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
The Power of Now differs from any other meditation book on this list. Why?
The author, Eckhart Tolle, is a controversial figure since many people disagree on how useful or authentic his message really is. However, with this book, he catapulted himself into the world of “living in the moment is all that matters.”
The book became famous because of how Tolle describes people in the beginning. You will read ideas that resonate as true, and you’ll connect those ideas with your own experiences of people you know.
Some comment that the book’s conclusion can be challenging to fully understand. Nevertheless, the book is worth giving a shot if you haven’t read it yet.
#7. Real Happiness by Sharon Salzberg
Sharon Salzberg shares a thorough, 28-day meditation program in one of her greatest masterpieces. In the book, you will discover that in order to start meditating properly, you should view meditation as an exercise, not a spiritual practice.
Real Happiness covers the basics of meditation and mindfulness, from intentional breathing and posturing to focusing, scheduling, and decluttering. Besides the step-by-step instructions, Salzburg also lists reasons why meditation is beneficial to your body, mind, and soul.
#8. Meditations on Self-Love by Laurasia Mattingly
We’ve all felt insecure at some point in our lives, and Laurasia Mattingly understands that.
Her book focuses on encouraging and motivating people to work towards accepting their flaws and loving themselves for who they are.
Through meditative practices, Mattingly instructs readers to listen to their hearts more often and let go of their gripping insecurities and anxieties.
Life improves with a heart and mind that believes nothing is impossible, including your journey toward becoming a better version of yourself. Give these best meditation books a try; inspire yourself to pursue inner peace and happiness.