This optimistic, change-oriented book is clearly written (and cleanly designed). 52 Small Changes for the Mind is, for me, the kind of book that I dip into now and then for inspiration. Each "change," encapsulated in command form, includes a rationale and justification (typically with invocations of research or other literature) and is followed by an action plan (a "path to change"). Blumenthal knows that one cannot make 52 changes simultaneously; but she also knows that incorporating as many of them as possible will lead to a healthy and happy lifestyle. The "changes" aren't earth-shattering. Think "read for pleasure," "eat good fats," build close relationships," "meditate," and so on. Altogether, though, the book focuses on the kinds of intentional differences we can make in our own lives--involving actions, orientations, and attitudes that we can, indeed, control. So, in short, pick it up for a pick-me-up--provided you engage with the action plans instead of just imagining them.

There are a lot of good ideas here - 52 to be exact. Each of the suggestions Ms. Blumenthal writes about has a practical and positive impact on ones ability to handle stress and be more productive and content. I've only read about half-way through the book but the changes are often basic common sense. Each week there is a short reading with instructions on how to implement the change and some reasons why it is beneficial. Definitely designed to be more of a workbook than something to sit down and read through. ( )

This book packages some basic self help hints in a refreshing way. A theme is to examine your own life more deeply and not be so affected by others' possessions or influence. Another message is that it takes time to develop new habits and the goal of one improvement a week will lead to more satisfaction with what you have. Read it straight through, or skip around. ( )

52 Small Changes for the Mind by Brett Blumenthal is not your typical self help book. Rather this takes a multitude of items for personal improvement and spreads them in a format to apply over a years period of time. This concept is not unique but typically they are over simplified to stretch over the year. This book incorporates things like listening to music, adding brain boosting foods and doing activities like spending time outdoors. A lot of journaling is encouraged as well. I have read many self help books and I find this to be good. Most books have a few ideas to use but this one offers a lot of unique and helpful ideas. Books that promise results over a period of time are still better read all at once rather than over a period of time. I would certainly recommend this book to anyone looking to expand their minds in many unique ways. ( )

The first chapter is "Put Pen to Paper" advocating journaling. Just as I was given a beautiful journal for my birthday and a fabulous pen for Xmas. The next chapter is "Let the Music Play". Pointing out my forever New Year's resolution to play more music with Heath. Now "Be a Goal Setter" as I pick up the GoodReads reading challenge. I think this book is for me! It gives me a lot to ponder. I think it will take more than a year to internalize this positive advice. I can't imagine that all of the book will fit me so perfectly, but we are off to a good start. This is a fun way to try some new ideas. Give it a week and see if it is a good fit. I hope it will help me to create some new habits to lower stress. ( )