From hormones to homework, parents to peers, health issues to bad habits, life can be a pressure cooker leading to anxiety and even thoughts of suicide. How can we find relief? With its roots in ancient Buddhist teachings, mindfulness―the practice of purposefully focusing attention on the present moment―can change a person's approach to stress, develop skills to handle anxiety and depression, and provide a sense of awareness and belonging. Stewart guides readers through how to get started with meditation as well as provides specific exercises for examining emotions, managing stress, checking social media habits and wellness routines, and setting intentions to increase happiness.

Introduction: when life came crashing down -- Mind training: Practice and more practice -- Getting started: how do I do this? -- Busy mind! working with thoughts -- Ticked off! dealing with emotions -- Stressed out: a body-mind connection -- Anybody listening? mindfulness and social media -- Let's get physical: rising, eating, moving, and sleeping -- Happiness: a mindful way of living -- Sources notes -- Selected bibliography -- Further reading & websites -- Mindfulness apps -- Index.