Purrs of Wisdom Review

Some of you know that, in addition to writing humor, I also love reading and writing more reflective pieces. When Ingrid King of The Conscious Cat blog and Buckley's Story allowed me to review her new book, Purrs of Wisdom: Conscious Living, Feline Style, I was thrilled. 

Purrs of Wisdom is a delightful and thought-provoking collection of 32 short essays in which Ingrid looks to her felines for lessons in living a fulfilling, peaceful life. I've always believed cats possess innate wisdom and are natural Zen masters; Ingrid believes this too and explores this wisdom in the easy-to-read essays. Three of my favorites are:

Gratitude: Especially when we see sadness happening in our world, looking inward and feeling gratitude for what's good in our life and the world is key. Ingrid suggests that, before getting of the bed in the morning and again before sleep, thinking about five things for which you're grateful. My suspicion is you won't have to think much past your fabulous felines.

Stop Rushing: Wow -- this essay truly spoke to me. My tendency is toward multi-tasking and setting sometimes-unrealistic expectations of myself. Cats remind us to slow down, breathe, and be present with what's at hand (or at paw). Ingrid offers excellent tips to keep this top-of-mind.

Simple Steps to Stop Worrying: Who can't use guidance and support in this area? I loved Ingrid's tip of setting aside 15 minutes a day to allow for any and all the worrying you can possibly release. The rest of the day is a worry-free zone. Genius.

I wish I could tell you about all 32 essays, but you'll have to pick up a copy of the book and experience them for yourself. I can tell you that some of the subjects covered are creating balance, technology addiction, embracing change, slaying energy vampires, and aging gracefully. And I recommend reading one each morning and then taking the day to really allow the lesson to sink in and look for ways you can integrate the wisdom into your own life.

You know, the holidays are upon us with a brand new year on their heels. How about gifting yourself or a loved one with this beautiful book and creating an intention to kick off 2013 with lessons learned from Purrs of Wisdom?  Be the best, most healthy, joyful and balanced YOU you can be -- do it for yourself and your human and 4-legged loved ones. And don't forget to look to your wise felines for tips -- they are masters at living consciously!

You can purchase your own copy of Purrs of Wisdom here. 

Ingrid King is a former veterinary hospital manager turned multiple award-winning author. Her popular blog, The Conscious Cat is a comprehensive resource for conscious living, health, and happiness for cars and their humans. Ingrid lives in northern Virginia with her two tortiseshell cats, Allegra and Ruby. For more information about Ingrid, please visit her site.