Book Review: Radical Compassion

Radical Compassion: Learning to Love Yourself and Your World with the Practice of RAIN by Tara Brach.

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I read this book every January as part of a mental health reset. I choose to listen to the audio version because I like having the meditations and mindfulness activities read out to me in a guided fashion. With that being said, I've had friends tell me they don't like the audio version because they find her voice, "annoying." If you decide to listen to it, I'd suggest sampling the audio first.

To get a description of the book, you can see that HERE.

What I Like About the Book...

This book has grown on me. Each time I read it, I learn a little something more from it. Even though I've gone through the books many times, I always find fresh takeaways.

Here are the things I like about it best:

There are many interesting examples that are memorable and pop back into my head when I need them.
Each chapter ends with an activity that makes the skills practical.
I like the audio version because of the guided RAIN practice.
The practice of RAIN is used to address many topics relevant to life (forgiveness, presence, being your best self).
I go through a chapter a week which replicates taking a course on compassion.

What I Didn't Like About the Book...

The only thing I don't like about the book is that sometimes she discusses topics without providing a foundation. This isn't an overarching problem but it occurred a few times throughout the book. I often take notes and go do extra research to get the basics before delving further.

Would I Recommend the Book?

100% yes. I recommend this book regularly. I think it makes an excellent buddy read with a friend. I've also buddy-read it with clients. The nurture step of RAIN is complementary to practices I use with Internal Family Systems.

How Many Stars Did I Give it?

5 STARS!!! I love books that teach a skill. I also appreciate it's something I can return to regularly. It seems like it meets me where I'm at, no matter where that might be.

Like anything, we all have our own personal preferences. If this sound like something of interest, you can look into it for yourself HERE.