If you're feeling stressed in your job or life, this is a book to start you thinking. If you're under pressure, it's time to relax. And the secret of relaxation is in the Stopping.
Now, I've seldom had trouble switching off and relaxing. I rarely have time for books which claim to teach you to relax - who needs a book? why not just go for a quiet pint, stare out the window, or listen to some Bach? However, I found David Kundtz's book a relaxing read.
I also found it a stimulating read... it's the first book I've ever read which actually made me think about stopping and the tensions involved in making the decision to stop. When you're too woound it, stopping seems like an impossibility.
Kundtz is a former Catholic priest who describes himself as a 'failed meditater'. I can relate to that. There's often too much mumbo-jumbo and pseudo-religion associated with meditation. Kundtz writes in a very gentle, seductive style - reading his words actually induces a feeling of calm. Kundtz has a relaxing rhythm, like a slow-sipped malt whisky, persuading you to sit back, relax, and think about stopping.
His message to the reader is a simple one. Stop! Indulge in the art of switching off for a few moments... or longer. Develop the good habits of just taking those quiet moments... and using them productively to stop. It's hard to believe people don't know how. But then, the value of this book is in the reading of it, not in some potted explanation of its content.