Why Meditate?

“In this marvelous book, Matthieu Ricard articulates the Dharma in the very same way he embodies it in his life; that is, with profound clarity, goodwill, and humility. These qualities come through on every page and make the experience of reading and practicing with this elegant and deceptively simple primer on meditation tantamount to entering into and familiarizing oneself in an ever-deepening way with the landscape of one’s own truest self.”
— Jon Kabat-Zinn, author of Wherever You Go, There You Are and Coming to Our Senses

“This is the book on meditation that I’ve been waiting for. Reading it has helped me hone my personal practice, and finally I have come across the perfect book to recommend to all those interested in meditation—newcomers and experts. Why Meditate? is clear, accessible, deep, and practical.”
— Tal Ben-Shahar, author of Happier

“An excellent introduction to a practice that has calmed the mind for thousands of years. Profound concepts and essential instructions are explained with the utmost clarity. I highly recommend it!”
— Judith S. Beck, Ph.D., director of Beck Institute for Cognitive Therapy and Research, clinical associate professor of psychology in psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, past president, Academy of Cognitive Therapy

“Why Meditate? is a clear and insightful guide to beginning a meditation practice, and to continuing one skillfully. Matthieu Ricard provides helpful and specific instruction along with an immense depth of understanding about happiness, suffering, and living a better life.”
— Sharon Salzberg, author of Lovingkindness and The Kindness Handbook

“Writing as a true spiritual friend, Matthieu Ricard shares the wisdom he has gained from his four decades of spiritual training that clearly and succinctly presents what meditation is and how to practice it, step by step. This book is a treasure to be read with care and shared with those you love.”
— B. Alan Wallace, author of Mind in the Balance