Books for Empowered Patients
Book Title:
How to Be Sick: A Buddhist-Inspired Guide for the Chronically IllBook Author(s)::
Toni BernhardMy Review
Like the author of this book, I have CFS. I found this book to be poignant, real and sympathetic - I know it's going to be a book I'll be dipping into over and over again.
Toni doesn't claim to have any of the answers around chronic illness; she's not saying 'do this and you'll get well'. She's sharing her journey and inviting fellow travellers along the rocky road of chronic illness to join in her exploration of Buddhism and ill health.
Of course, given the choice, none of us would be travelling this road! But as Toni points out so beautifully, the winds of life can blow us all over the place. Part of The journey of life is recognising this and seeing that the wind blows everyone; we aren't isolated in our suffering and pain.
This book isn't aimed particularly at Buddhists. Toni has a teaching background, and it shows. She's able to describe Buddhism in a way that is heartfelt, clear and directly related to the day-to-day circumstances of those of us living with illness (or caring for someone with an illness).
What was the most important information you learned?
The book clearly outlines different Buddhist practices to help develop equanimity, joy and acceptance in the face of illness, pain, (or other life difficulties). I think the way Toni explains the practices makes them very easy to understand.
What information was missing?
I don't think there's anything missing - it's a very well thought-out book. The only thing I'd like to see is the book in an audio format so people who have difficulties reading print could have access to it. Also, a companion CD with guided meditations would be awesome!
Who will benefit most from reading this book?
I don't even think it's necessary to have an illness to get a lot out of this book. I think you could probably substitute a lot of life's difficulties (grief over the loss of a loved one, sadness over a divorce, an eating disorder) for the word 'chronic illness' and find a lot to relate to in this
Tell us about you.
I have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
