Review of Practicing Mindfulness by Matthew Sockolov

Overview

  • Title & Author: Practicing Mindfulness: 75 Essential Meditations to Reduce Stress, Improve Mental Health, and Find Peace in the Everyday by Matthew Sockolov.
  • Publication Details: Released on September 11, 2018, by Callisto/Althea Press; available in several formats including Kindle (eBook) and audiobook .
Review of Practicing Mindfulness by Matthew Sockolov
Review of Practicing Mindfulness by Matthew Sockolov

Author Background

Matthew Sockolov is the founder and teaching guide behind One Mind Dharma, known for making mindfulness practical and accessible. He’s noted for his work with recovering addicts and adolescents, educating them and wider audiences on mindfulness practice .

Structure & Content

The book is organized around 75 bite-sized meditations, starting with very short (around 5-minute) practices and gradually introducing longer, more involved ones. The goal is to build confidence and sustain an ongoing personal mindfulness journey .

These meditations are divided into categories:

  • Foundational practices like breath awareness, body scans, mindful eating, gratitude, and awareness of emotions .
  • Exercises tailored to navigating specific life circumstances or emotional states, providing targeted support regardless of experience level .

What Makes It Stand Out

  • Accessible & Practical: Sockolov offers clear instructions, overcoming the “black-box” of mindfulness by teaching how, not just why .
  • Evidence-Based Yet Compassionate: Insights are supported by research while being gently spaced with empathy and relatability .
  • Flexible Growth: Practices grow with the reader, matching evolving schedules, emotional needs, and levels of experience .
  • Well-Received: Praised for clarity and practicality—Sharon Salzberg commended it as “an excellent tutorial,” and others valued it as practice-based with lasting usefulness .
  • Community Feedback: On Reddit, readers called it “so helpful” and “great meditation techniques,” with the author even participating in discussions to encourage others .

Review Summary

If you’re seeking a supportive, step-by-step guide to cultivating everyday mindfulness, this book is an excellent resource. It works beautifully for beginners and also offers depth for seasoned practitioners. The meditations are manageable, the guidance is warm, and the structure helps integrate mindfulness consistently into daily life.


Links to Kindle & Audiobook Editions

** Kindle / eBook**

Practicing Mindfulness: 75 Essential Meditations to Reduce Stress, Improve Mental Health, and Find Peace in the Everyday Kindle Edition by Matthew Sockolov
You’ll find it on platforms such as Amazon Kindle and Booktopia .

** Audiobook**

Available on major platforms such as:

  • Audible: Narrated by Daniel Henning, duration approx. 4 hours and 47 minutes, released February 5, 2019 .
  • Apple Books: Same narrator and timing details; priced around $12.99 .

Final Thoughts

  • Who will benefit most:
    • Anyone starting their mindfulness journey.
    • Those looking to integrate stress-relief practices into daily routines.
    • Experienced meditators seeking varied and accessible exercises.
  • Why it works:
    • Clear, doable meditation prompts.
    • Scalable practices fitting real-life schedules and moods.
    • A tone that balances structure, kindness, and motivational insight.

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