Irene Smit and Astrid van der Hulst, creative directors of Flow magazine and coauthors of A Book That Takes Its Time, introduce The Big Book of Less: Finding Joy in Living Lighter, a pleasurable guide to clearing the mind through minimizing belongings, digital distractions, negative thinking and the need for control.
Essays explain how we become overstimulated--believing we "can't do without," might miss "something important" or must accomplish everything--and suggest solutions like taking breaks from thinking and screens, developing a dot journal and "embracing... upheaval." Advice comes from experts in psychology, philosophy, mindfulness and stress management. Extras include how-tos on such things as bucket lists, growing plants, slow-cooking recipes, "tiny pleasures" to appreciate. Exploring beyond the book via cited TED Talks, websites and "inspiring reads" is encouraged. Perfect for anyone needing a break, this beautiful adventure in letting go celebrates a simpler life. --Samantha Zaboski, freelance editor and reviewer