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by Denise Roy
 Denise Roy, author of Momfulness, is a psychotherapist and spiritual director who incorporates that spirituality into her parenting philosophy. In what she calls "conscious mothering," mothers can learn to engage in a meditative relationship with themselves, their family, and their environment. Though her book is profoundly thoughtful, it is also incredibly faith-driven. For less religious mothers, the interspersed religious quotes and prayers could be more of a put-off than an inspiration. The combination of spirituality and meditation combine to create chapters like "Body Blessings" and "The Sacred In All Things." She encourages mothers to focus on their children's smiles, learn to be and breathe in the moment, and experience others' beings. Her story is, however, well told, and her fluid and realistic writing style combines personal anecdotes, outside stories, and activities to free the mind. For mothers who can relate to Roy on a spiritual level, this book will speak to them on other planes as well. They will find themselves agreeing with her ("Yes, our true presence is our greatest gift to our family" and "It's true, we should take time to greet the morning with a prayer"), and they will likely dive head-on into her meditative exercises. It is very probable then that they, in this way, will find themselves learning a few things about parenting with grace and compassion. For others, though, these sentiments will likely ring hollow in the end.
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