Andreas's Reviews > The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
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really liked it
bookshelves: non-fiction

There are some strong ideas in the book, the most important ones being stillness, the concept of time versus presence and watching the watcher. Training the mind to enjoy silence and prefer it as the favorite mode is a relaxing experience. As Eckhart Tolle said, the mind is a tool that you use when you need it. There is no reason to constantly worry, live in the past or look for things in the future that will then be replaced by new things that are even further in the future.

The tricky part is the integration of consciousness. Being present means to be fully aware of everything that is around you and not dozing off into a dream-like alpha state. For me this wasn't so easy but after some time it started to work. A side effect is that I find it much easier to concentrate now to get into the flow because I recognize when the critical mind is starting to boycott activities and can interrupt it.

I agree with other reviewers about the length of the book. The main ideas don't need much space and especially the middle part left me wondering what kind of mind boggling act Mr Tolle wanted to achieve. Maybe a second read will shed light on it although I don't think it's necessary to read the book again. Enlightment (or whatever you call it) can only come from within. It's a seed that needs to grow on its own.

Whether the whole idea is valid or not is a completely different question and this is especially true for this book. I also have to say that I find the attitude of Eckhart Tolle in the videos on YouTube irritating and I am not a big fan of him. This doesn't stop me to look at new things with an open mind and I invite you to do the same. We are responsible for our own lifes and must draw our own conclusions.
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Reading Progress

December 6, 2015 – Started Reading
December 13, 2015 – Shelved
December 13, 2015 – Shelved as: non-fiction
December 13, 2015 – Finished Reading

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