The Bloomsbury guide to pastoral care

Abstract

spiritual. These are: Lao-tzu, Plato, Dante, Emerson, Swedenborg, William James, Jung and Bohm. Also included are the shamanistic practices of Indigenous people; the Twelve-Step Movement and Christopher Bache’s work on the ‘living classroom’. In the latter part of the chapter, Miller introduces his own work in teacher education and the witnessing of his students to the value of contemplative practice and compassion in teaching. Another refreshing aspect of this book is the willingness to discuss spirituality openly in relation to professional practice. The benefits of mindfulness practices most quoted in therapeutic contexts usually relate to claims for reductions in reactivity, improvements in attention and focus, and an increased sense of calm. However, the opening up of spiritual awareness is an important factor to be considered for those teaching contemplative practices. While Miller successfully shows the value of contemplative practices, the book would benefit from a brief discussion of any contraindications to introducing mindfulness or any vulnerabilities and pitfalls that teachers should be aware of when introducing a practice that can fundamentally affect a person’s sense of self and relationship to the world. Chapter 6 provides an overview of the Mindfulness Movement, its history and impact in the areas of business, sport, law and education in the last 20 years. This chapter contains many useful references to recent research and literature, while also giving an overview of programmes in education, health and social care. Again, the quotations from Miller’s students bear a touching witness to the value of mindfulness in both personal and professional lives. The final chapter is a personal account of Professor Miller’s (Jack’s) own teaching followed by a brief but moving autobiographical account of his life. The inclusion of this chapter is entirely apt for a book that passionately makes the case for a personal journey with contemplative practice, whether embarked on from professional or personal beginnings. It is a thoroughly readable book that I will return to time and again in relation to my own meditation practice, mindfulness teaching and therapeutic work. I would commend it as an excellent introductory text to those interested in introducing contemplative practice to their own lives or those currently teaching mindfulness in schools or higher education.