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Downward Dog, Upward Fog
"An inspirational gem that will appeal to introspective, evolving women"--ForeWord Reviews
Foreword Reviews named Downward Dog, Upward Fog a fiction-book-of-the-year finalist.
This is the book that introduces Lorna Crawford.
FOR MORE OF LORNA'S CONTEMPORARY SPIRITUAL PURSUITS, READ MERYL DAVIDS LANDAU'S NEXT BOOK, WARRIOR WON
Lorna Crawford has a great boyfriend, longtime friends, and a well-paying job as special-events coordinator at a premium ice-cream manufacturer. But, out of sorts and filled with self-doubt, the 33 year old soon realizes that what she really wants is to stay on the spiritual path she keeps diving off of. Lorna jump-starts her efforts at a silent yoga retreat. But after returning from the mountain, she quickly loses her connection in the face of scheming coworkers, judgmental girlfriends, and, especially, her overly critical mother. Lorna also wrestles over her future with her boyfriend, a hot guy who takes her to the hottest places, but who can’t discern a meditation cushion from a toad stool. Reading spiritual books, such as those by Eckhart Tolle and Jon Kabat-Zinn, and visiting a channeler and energy healer move Lorna forward, but her confusion remains.
Lorna’s seeking is put to the ultimate test when personal tragedy strikes. Will she come to truly understand that living spiritually has little to do with how you pretzel yourself on the yoga mat (although she gets plenty good at that), and everything to do with embracing the twists in everyday life?
Foreword Reviews named Downward Dog, Upward Fog a fiction-book-of-the-year finalist.
This is the book that introduces Lorna Crawford.
FOR MORE OF LORNA'S CONTEMPORARY SPIRITUAL PURSUITS, READ MERYL DAVIDS LANDAU'S NEXT BOOK, WARRIOR WON
Lorna Crawford has a great boyfriend, longtime friends, and a well-paying job as special-events coordinator at a premium ice-cream manufacturer. But, out of sorts and filled with self-doubt, the 33 year old soon realizes that what she really wants is to stay on the spiritual path she keeps diving off of. Lorna jump-starts her efforts at a silent yoga retreat. But after returning from the mountain, she quickly loses her connection in the face of scheming coworkers, judgmental girlfriends, and, especially, her overly critical mother. Lorna also wrestles over her future with her boyfriend, a hot guy who takes her to the hottest places, but who can’t discern a meditation cushion from a toad stool. Reading spiritual books, such as those by Eckhart Tolle and Jon Kabat-Zinn, and visiting a channeler and energy healer move Lorna forward, but her confusion remains.
Lorna’s seeking is put to the ultimate test when personal tragedy strikes. Will she come to truly understand that living spiritually has little to do with how you pretzel yourself on the yoga mat (although she gets plenty good at that), and everything to do with embracing the twists in everyday life?
296 pages, Paperback
First published May 3, 2011
17 people are currently reading
816 people want to read
About the author
Meryl Davids Landau
4 books107 followersAward-winning writer Meryl Davids Landau is the author of the mindfulness/yoga women's novel Warrior Won, which was the Gold Medal winner in the Living Now Book Awards competition for Inspirational fiction. Warrior Won was also a finalist in both women's fiction and inspirational fiction in the American Book Fest Fiction Awards.
Foreword Reviews calls Warrior Won "spiritual fiction that is both compelling and fun." Midwest Book Review says it is "one of the strongest spiritual women's fiction pieces to appear in recent years."
Warrior Won is a stand-alone follow up to Meryl's prior novel Downward Dog, Upward Fog, named a fiction-book-of-the-year finalist by Foreword Reviews.
Her third book is Enlightened Parenting: A Mom Reflects on Living Spiritually With Kids, a book of essays.
Meryl has been published in numerous magazines, including O: the Oprah magazine, Prevention, Glamour, Parents, Redbook, Reader’s Digest, Yoga Journal, HuffPost, Medium, Vice, and more. Her work has been nominated for a prestigious National Magazine Award and won first place in the outstanding-article category from the American Society of Journalists & Authors.
Meryl is a certified Integral Yoga teacher and a co-moderator of the Yoga Folks group on Goodreads.
Connect with Meryl on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MerylDavidsL...
Foreword Reviews calls Warrior Won "spiritual fiction that is both compelling and fun." Midwest Book Review says it is "one of the strongest spiritual women's fiction pieces to appear in recent years."
Warrior Won is a stand-alone follow up to Meryl's prior novel Downward Dog, Upward Fog, named a fiction-book-of-the-year finalist by Foreword Reviews.
Her third book is Enlightened Parenting: A Mom Reflects on Living Spiritually With Kids, a book of essays.
Meryl has been published in numerous magazines, including O: the Oprah magazine, Prevention, Glamour, Parents, Redbook, Reader’s Digest, Yoga Journal, HuffPost, Medium, Vice, and more. Her work has been nominated for a prestigious National Magazine Award and won first place in the outstanding-article category from the American Society of Journalists & Authors.
Meryl is a certified Integral Yoga teacher and a co-moderator of the Yoga Folks group on Goodreads.
Connect with Meryl on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MerylDavidsL...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 4, 2012
After reading some very deep and thought provoking books, I thought I needed a chick-lit fix and was drawn to this one because of it's yoga theme. However, I'm afraid it was all a bit too simple and fluffy for me - a bit like a drive-in fast food outlet for ready made spirituality. There are some good messages contained in this novel - the importance of living in the moment, for example, which Lorna struggles with continuously (as do many of us, no doubt). But these were overshadowed by things which simply annoyed me (such as Lorna's born-again condescending answers to everything)... so I'm afraid a 2 star rating is being generous. I think I just got bored with having spirituality served on a platter, pre-digested and simplified to a point where it took away the challenge to think things through for yourself. Which made me struggle to even finish the book .... and some scenes towards the end, like Lorna performing yoga in ICU instead of holding her loved one's hand, were way over the top for me.
I had the impression that the author tried too hard to pack in as much new age spirituality as possible into this story, which in the end made it preachy and unbelievable. For example, I have never met anyone who is able to perform perfect yoga asanas (like a 15-minute headstand) after just a few months of practice, especially someone made out to be as unfit as Lorna ... and whilst Lorna has some pitfalls on her journey (which made her appear human for a little while), her almost obsessive embracing of anything new-age seems unhealthy and unsustainable to me. All in all, the
answers all seemed too simple and contrived, and the preachy overtones spoiled a story which could have potentially been fun and entertaining as well as thought-provoking.
I had the impression that the author tried too hard to pack in as much new age spirituality as possible into this story, which in the end made it preachy and unbelievable. For example, I have never met anyone who is able to perform perfect yoga asanas (like a 15-minute headstand) after just a few months of practice, especially someone made out to be as unfit as Lorna ... and whilst Lorna has some pitfalls on her journey (which made her appear human for a little while), her almost obsessive embracing of anything new-age seems unhealthy and unsustainable to me. All in all, the
answers all seemed too simple and contrived, and the preachy overtones spoiled a story which could have potentially been fun and entertaining as well as thought-provoking.
July 6, 2011
Downward Dog, Upward Fog
By Meryl Davids Landau
What a treat to find a book that gently guides those of us who know there’s more to life but haven’t found the route to it…. Meryl Davids Landau has penned a fictional novel reflecting her own quest to a spiritual life that celebrates our personal power rather than advocating some guru’s path. Landau takes us on a journey from the standpoint of Lorna, her protagonist, who lives and works a traditional life but feels there’s more available to her and wants to find out what that can mean to her life.
Lorna is a marketing consultant with an enviable job whose own background has held her back from experiencing the most life has to offer. Lorna realizes that her mother has instilled negative impressions that hold her back from realizing her full potential, and she’s committed to finding and releasing those roadblocks to her success. And she’s not worried about material success – she’s already achieved that - she’s looking for personal fulfillment that enables her to be and express the most loving person she can be.
Rather than preach to readers, Landau carries us along on Lorna’s journey from conventional life to a more spiritually fulfilling life in a way that provides a roadmap for anyone seeking the same. Even though the book is fictional, Landau lets us know that the path somewhat mirrors her own, and in the end, it seems clear that Landau is well on her way to a role as spiritual leader along the line of Marianne Williamson. Although I suspect that Landau will always be more accessible than many and not cast as a “guru” – I think her approach will be more helpful to seekers as they strive to find their own path.
Through Lorna, Landau unravels the many layers that a spiritual seeker might need to transgress… Lorna begins as a conventional career woman whose weekend fun includes meeting the girls at the bar for a drink. Her life includes a perfect suitor – a young man on a career path of his own who makes time for her when his career allows, but since he’s clearly destined for success the arrangement seems acceptable, especially since he’s perfectly handsome, sweet and fun in the intimacy department. But as Lorna explores more deeply into her own meaningful life, she questions whether her perfect man can really meet her needs since he does not share her quest for a more spiritually satisfying life.
Lorna also has to deal with issues laid on her by her mother – she’s never been good enough in Mom’s eyes and that weighs heavily on her as she tries to make her way in the world. She knows she needs to develop a new way of dealing with Mom, but that presents one of her greatest challenges. Through yoga and meditation, Lorna finds the way to deal gracefully with the challenges in her life and in the process she helps many others to do the same.
As Lorna explores options for a more spiritually satisfying life, she takes readers along on the tour. She investigates alternative health as well as several methods of self-help including yoga, meditation, even a retreat where no one is allowed to speak for the entire weekend. She shares details on these ideas as well as the healthy skepticism that any traditional person might feel. She also shares tips and techniques that readers can try on their own to begin their own journey toward a more spiritual life. While referencing several spiritual leaders and their advice, Landau never ascribes to any organized sect or religion that might put a reader off – she explores them all and integrates what works for Lorna as she develops her personal understanding and method for achieving better grounding for her own life.
I am pleased to highly recommend this quick, fun read as a means to connect with a more meaningful life, even for those whose life experiences have placed them solidly in the traditional realm. Landau reminds us that there is more to life than fancy clothes, cars and the American Dream of the perfect guy and house. She is successfully leading us toward a life filled with happiness and peace. I expect Landau is well along on her own path to be the next Marianne Williamson – a guide who leads those of us who feel successful in our lives, but know that there’s more to life than the material world can offer.
By Meryl Davids Landau
What a treat to find a book that gently guides those of us who know there’s more to life but haven’t found the route to it…. Meryl Davids Landau has penned a fictional novel reflecting her own quest to a spiritual life that celebrates our personal power rather than advocating some guru’s path. Landau takes us on a journey from the standpoint of Lorna, her protagonist, who lives and works a traditional life but feels there’s more available to her and wants to find out what that can mean to her life.
Lorna is a marketing consultant with an enviable job whose own background has held her back from experiencing the most life has to offer. Lorna realizes that her mother has instilled negative impressions that hold her back from realizing her full potential, and she’s committed to finding and releasing those roadblocks to her success. And she’s not worried about material success – she’s already achieved that - she’s looking for personal fulfillment that enables her to be and express the most loving person she can be.
Rather than preach to readers, Landau carries us along on Lorna’s journey from conventional life to a more spiritually fulfilling life in a way that provides a roadmap for anyone seeking the same. Even though the book is fictional, Landau lets us know that the path somewhat mirrors her own, and in the end, it seems clear that Landau is well on her way to a role as spiritual leader along the line of Marianne Williamson. Although I suspect that Landau will always be more accessible than many and not cast as a “guru” – I think her approach will be more helpful to seekers as they strive to find their own path.
Through Lorna, Landau unravels the many layers that a spiritual seeker might need to transgress… Lorna begins as a conventional career woman whose weekend fun includes meeting the girls at the bar for a drink. Her life includes a perfect suitor – a young man on a career path of his own who makes time for her when his career allows, but since he’s clearly destined for success the arrangement seems acceptable, especially since he’s perfectly handsome, sweet and fun in the intimacy department. But as Lorna explores more deeply into her own meaningful life, she questions whether her perfect man can really meet her needs since he does not share her quest for a more spiritually satisfying life.
Lorna also has to deal with issues laid on her by her mother – she’s never been good enough in Mom’s eyes and that weighs heavily on her as she tries to make her way in the world. She knows she needs to develop a new way of dealing with Mom, but that presents one of her greatest challenges. Through yoga and meditation, Lorna finds the way to deal gracefully with the challenges in her life and in the process she helps many others to do the same.
As Lorna explores options for a more spiritually satisfying life, she takes readers along on the tour. She investigates alternative health as well as several methods of self-help including yoga, meditation, even a retreat where no one is allowed to speak for the entire weekend. She shares details on these ideas as well as the healthy skepticism that any traditional person might feel. She also shares tips and techniques that readers can try on their own to begin their own journey toward a more spiritual life. While referencing several spiritual leaders and their advice, Landau never ascribes to any organized sect or religion that might put a reader off – she explores them all and integrates what works for Lorna as she develops her personal understanding and method for achieving better grounding for her own life.
I am pleased to highly recommend this quick, fun read as a means to connect with a more meaningful life, even for those whose life experiences have placed them solidly in the traditional realm. Landau reminds us that there is more to life than fancy clothes, cars and the American Dream of the perfect guy and house. She is successfully leading us toward a life filled with happiness and peace. I expect Landau is well along on her own path to be the next Marianne Williamson – a guide who leads those of us who feel successful in our lives, but know that there’s more to life than the material world can offer.
August 7, 2011
Well-written new age novel both energizes and inspires
I loved this book. Meryl Davids Landau's new novel fulfills my requirements for good new age fiction: compelling characters, a strong plot, and a well-structured theme that supports the story without overwhelming it. New age novels must appeal to both the emotions and the intellect, and "Downward Dog, Upward Fog" does both.
Spiritual/metaphysical content: High. As Lorna works through her personal issues and grows spiritually, the author references information from books such as A New Earth, A Course in Miracles, and other sources that can help expand the reader's knowledge. Lorna learns how to apply a number of spiritual concepts to better manage her relationships, both personal and professional. The author details specific yoga postures and practices (stomach wash, anyone?) that helped me gain a deeper understanding of unfamiliar spiritual techniques. She shares practical meditation techniques, mindfulness tips, and mind/body/spirit principles that everyone can use. In particular, I enjoyed reading about the power of joining a spiritual community.
Landau does a great job of describing what living a spiritual life feels like, including the "high" that can come from living in the moment and learning to apply spiritual techniques to everyday life. However, she also makes it clear that the goal is not the elation, or even the occasional peaceful moment in meditation, but the "lingering calm that sustains every moment, regardless of what transpires."
My take: I'll say it again: I loved this book. New age novels must entertain and educate; they must appeal to both the emotions and the intellect, and Downward Dog, Upward Fog does this in spades. Meryl Davids Landau's writing is excellent, and she spins an engaging tale that will appeal to readers who enjoy the lighter tone of chick lit.
My only observation is that the book has an unrealistically happy ending; in the real world, living a consistently spiritual life does not guarantee happiness. However, the feel-good ending is in keeping with the chick lit genre. I felt energized and inspired when I finished the book, which is precisely the point.
For more reviews of new age novels, see Fiction For A New Age.
I loved this book. Meryl Davids Landau's new novel fulfills my requirements for good new age fiction: compelling characters, a strong plot, and a well-structured theme that supports the story without overwhelming it. New age novels must appeal to both the emotions and the intellect, and "Downward Dog, Upward Fog" does both.
Spiritual/metaphysical content: High. As Lorna works through her personal issues and grows spiritually, the author references information from books such as A New Earth, A Course in Miracles, and other sources that can help expand the reader's knowledge. Lorna learns how to apply a number of spiritual concepts to better manage her relationships, both personal and professional. The author details specific yoga postures and practices (stomach wash, anyone?) that helped me gain a deeper understanding of unfamiliar spiritual techniques. She shares practical meditation techniques, mindfulness tips, and mind/body/spirit principles that everyone can use. In particular, I enjoyed reading about the power of joining a spiritual community.
Landau does a great job of describing what living a spiritual life feels like, including the "high" that can come from living in the moment and learning to apply spiritual techniques to everyday life. However, she also makes it clear that the goal is not the elation, or even the occasional peaceful moment in meditation, but the "lingering calm that sustains every moment, regardless of what transpires."
My take: I'll say it again: I loved this book. New age novels must entertain and educate; they must appeal to both the emotions and the intellect, and Downward Dog, Upward Fog does this in spades. Meryl Davids Landau's writing is excellent, and she spins an engaging tale that will appeal to readers who enjoy the lighter tone of chick lit.
My only observation is that the book has an unrealistically happy ending; in the real world, living a consistently spiritual life does not guarantee happiness. However, the feel-good ending is in keeping with the chick lit genre. I felt energized and inspired when I finished the book, which is precisely the point.
For more reviews of new age novels, see Fiction For A New Age.
November 21, 2011
This book was ok: light, readable fluff.
Certainly not 5 stars as many people have rated it. (read The Snow Leopard for a real 5 star spiritual tour-de-force).
It's badly let down by the final two chapters - as sweet and sickening as the giant ice cream sundae which features as the finale. Whilst it's nowhere near as awful as Eat, Pray, Love don't come to this book expecting anything deep.
If you're looking for the chick-lit version of pre-digested spirituality, then this book is for you.
Certainly not 5 stars as many people have rated it. (read The Snow Leopard for a real 5 star spiritual tour-de-force).
It's badly let down by the final two chapters - as sweet and sickening as the giant ice cream sundae which features as the finale. Whilst it's nowhere near as awful as Eat, Pray, Love don't come to this book expecting anything deep.
If you're looking for the chick-lit version of pre-digested spirituality, then this book is for you.
August 2, 2012
After commenting on a very positive five star review of Downward Dog, Upward Fog on a book blog (sorry I can't remember which), the author offered me a copy for review and I accepted. Though I am not particularly spiritual (and not at all religious) the premise seemed lighthearted and fun.
Actually Downward Dog, Upward Fog takes itself quite seriously, a little too seriously for my taste. Rather than connecting with Lorna's spiritual journey I felt like I was getting a crash course in new age mysticism complete with book lists, summarised philosophies and neat quotes, especially in the first half of the novel where the story relies on little else. The plot was quite thin, the turning point for Lorna was a long time coming and entirely predictable followed by a few contrived events that didn't work for me, such as her new romantic relationship with her cousin.
What I did like about the story was the healthy skepticism Lorna treats each idea with eventually choosing amongst the alternatives to find things that work for her like Yoga, meditation and positive thinking. I also liked that Lorna 'slipped' frequently and didn't instantly become serene and all knowing. She had to work at maintaining control and making conscious decisions.
I did admire Lorna's decision to make positive and healthy changes in her life, but for me, Lorna was not a very likeable character, self centered and irritable to begin with, 'spiritually enlightened' she became somewhat pious and smug.
While I wasn't enamoured of Downward Dog, Upward Fog, it does have a positive message about making changes in your life to find peace and happiness. It's a story that will likely appeal to those seeking a new path.
Actually Downward Dog, Upward Fog takes itself quite seriously, a little too seriously for my taste. Rather than connecting with Lorna's spiritual journey I felt like I was getting a crash course in new age mysticism complete with book lists, summarised philosophies and neat quotes, especially in the first half of the novel where the story relies on little else. The plot was quite thin, the turning point for Lorna was a long time coming and entirely predictable followed by a few contrived events that didn't work for me, such as her new romantic relationship with her cousin.
What I did like about the story was the healthy skepticism Lorna treats each idea with eventually choosing amongst the alternatives to find things that work for her like Yoga, meditation and positive thinking. I also liked that Lorna 'slipped' frequently and didn't instantly become serene and all knowing. She had to work at maintaining control and making conscious decisions.
I did admire Lorna's decision to make positive and healthy changes in her life, but for me, Lorna was not a very likeable character, self centered and irritable to begin with, 'spiritually enlightened' she became somewhat pious and smug.
While I wasn't enamoured of Downward Dog, Upward Fog, it does have a positive message about making changes in your life to find peace and happiness. It's a story that will likely appeal to those seeking a new path.
May 15, 2012
WOW! What an eye opener. On every page something popped out and made me think about myself and how I react to events around me.
Thirty three year old, Lorna Crawford is realizing she wants and deserves ore then what life is giving her right now. While struggling to find her spiritual side, she attends a silent retreat and ends up making friends that have similar goals. After the retreat, Lorna returns to the “real world” having to find a way to live with the negativity of her co-workers, her boyfriend’s difference in goals, and the relationship with her mother. She works hard to stay positive and often helps others around her become positive.
Lorna is definitely a character I can relate to. Although I am not overly spiritual, I love the calm and positive ways she dealt with the world around her. The negativeness of the world around her gets her down, but she manages to turn it around into a positive. I found myself learning by her examples. Smiling at strangers, changing a negative thought into a positive thought, or just sitting and listening to myself.
Downward Dog Upward Fog is a definite good read. Even if a person is not spiritual or into yoga, they would thoroughly enjoy this nook. This book is not just about spirituality, it is a book about relationships with your mother, boyfriend, co-workers, and yourself.
Thirty three year old, Lorna Crawford is realizing she wants and deserves ore then what life is giving her right now. While struggling to find her spiritual side, she attends a silent retreat and ends up making friends that have similar goals. After the retreat, Lorna returns to the “real world” having to find a way to live with the negativity of her co-workers, her boyfriend’s difference in goals, and the relationship with her mother. She works hard to stay positive and often helps others around her become positive.
Lorna is definitely a character I can relate to. Although I am not overly spiritual, I love the calm and positive ways she dealt with the world around her. The negativeness of the world around her gets her down, but she manages to turn it around into a positive. I found myself learning by her examples. Smiling at strangers, changing a negative thought into a positive thought, or just sitting and listening to myself.
Downward Dog Upward Fog is a definite good read. Even if a person is not spiritual or into yoga, they would thoroughly enjoy this nook. This book is not just about spirituality, it is a book about relationships with your mother, boyfriend, co-workers, and yourself.
January 14, 2012
"Downward Dog, Upward Fog" is chick lit for the spiritual set. Although fiction, it's what I fondly refer to as "nonfiction" fiction, meaning it is written with such an element of truth that it could be true. There are also practices mentioned that you may choose to adopt and integrate into your daily life, making for an inspiring & invigorating read.
The novel follows a young lady named Lorna, a lovable character who struggles with an existential crisis and embarks on a journey of spiritual self awareness. Throughout the journey, Lorna makes lifestyle changes that she often struggles to keep. Anyone who has ever started any type of self improvement will identify with Lorna and her struggles...but more importantly, her successes. You will find yourself silently cheering Lorna on, as she wages the war of self- ego vs. higher self, dropping plenty of "F bombs" (forgiveness) along the way.
The novel follows a young lady named Lorna, a lovable character who struggles with an existential crisis and embarks on a journey of spiritual self awareness. Throughout the journey, Lorna makes lifestyle changes that she often struggles to keep. Anyone who has ever started any type of self improvement will identify with Lorna and her struggles...but more importantly, her successes. You will find yourself silently cheering Lorna on, as she wages the war of self- ego vs. higher self, dropping plenty of "F bombs" (forgiveness) along the way.
August 3, 2011
Touching read - couldnt put the book down until I finished it in 10hrs.
Its wonderful how a person so alien to the eastern precept of slowing down and taking it in stride, with her western upbringing and the constant brawl with her mother, assimilates it and actually gets better at it with practice, than most others who are already born in that tradition. Seeing the transformation from a laid back, shy, angry, skeptical person to one who is more confident and outgoing to the point of actually helping('healing') others, by proven but esoteric ways is inspiring and prodding to move in the path with patience.
Although I'd read a ton of fictional books in the 1st person, the language somehow made it feel like I was listening to a 'real' Lorna pour out her struggle rather than reading about her life. The bracketized insight into her thoughts made it all the more personal - Loved it!
Its wonderful how a person so alien to the eastern precept of slowing down and taking it in stride, with her western upbringing and the constant brawl with her mother, assimilates it and actually gets better at it with practice, than most others who are already born in that tradition. Seeing the transformation from a laid back, shy, angry, skeptical person to one who is more confident and outgoing to the point of actually helping('healing') others, by proven but esoteric ways is inspiring and prodding to move in the path with patience.
Although I'd read a ton of fictional books in the 1st person, the language somehow made it feel like I was listening to a 'real' Lorna pour out her struggle rather than reading about her life. The bracketized insight into her thoughts made it all the more personal - Loved it!
October 21, 2011
* I received this book through a Goodreads giveaway. *
The cover of this book made me think it would be a fun chick lit book and it is, somewhat, but with a deeper message than most chick lit.
Lorna is a 30-something living in New Jersey who has a great job, a handsome boyfriend, a circle of friends, and a loving sister; however, Lorna also has co-workers she can't stand, a boyfriend who is too busy to spend time with her, a mother she doesn't get along with, and Lorna is increasingly feeling out of touch with her circle of friends. So, Lorna takes up yoga and starts to get in touch with her spiritual side in an attempt to find more satisfaction and direction in her life.
At the outset, I probably would have given this book three stars, but the message was uplifting and the book reminded me to appreciate and enjoy my life rather than slog through it.
The cover of this book made me think it would be a fun chick lit book and it is, somewhat, but with a deeper message than most chick lit.
Lorna is a 30-something living in New Jersey who has a great job, a handsome boyfriend, a circle of friends, and a loving sister; however, Lorna also has co-workers she can't stand, a boyfriend who is too busy to spend time with her, a mother she doesn't get along with, and Lorna is increasingly feeling out of touch with her circle of friends. So, Lorna takes up yoga and starts to get in touch with her spiritual side in an attempt to find more satisfaction and direction in her life.
At the outset, I probably would have given this book three stars, but the message was uplifting and the book reminded me to appreciate and enjoy my life rather than slog through it.
April 15, 2012
Lorna Crawford is on edge. It’s not that her life is bad. In fact, she has a job she likes, a wonderful boyfriend, and a great group of friends. Still, something is missing…
Her sister, the interfaith minister, calls it a spiritual crisis. Lorna isn’t really sure, at least at first. Tentatively, she sticks a toe into the water by taking a yoga class and begins reading some of the books her sister suggests. Before long, Lorna is convinced by a new friend that she should sign up for a weekend Silence Retreat.
Step by step Lorna opens up to others in her life. Like life itself, Lorna finds that integrating her new skills and knowledge are not always pretty and does not necessarily always go smoothly. This is especially true when creating a new relationship with her mother. I felt grateful to share her journey, to cry with her, and cheer her on throughout the process.
Her sister, the interfaith minister, calls it a spiritual crisis. Lorna isn’t really sure, at least at first. Tentatively, she sticks a toe into the water by taking a yoga class and begins reading some of the books her sister suggests. Before long, Lorna is convinced by a new friend that she should sign up for a weekend Silence Retreat.
Step by step Lorna opens up to others in her life. Like life itself, Lorna finds that integrating her new skills and knowledge are not always pretty and does not necessarily always go smoothly. This is especially true when creating a new relationship with her mother. I felt grateful to share her journey, to cry with her, and cheer her on throughout the process.
April 29, 2012
A funny chic lit story with spirit that isn't filled with over-zany antics. Well written like all Landau work, it's fun to read and the best of the yoga lit books I've read. Yes there's a message. And since she mentions many of my favorite spiritual books, contains sort of a bibliography. Lorna's situations are believable without the usual running off to India to find enlightenment. Thus, Lorna's journey is helpful to the average woman wondering where to start yoga or how to deal with a difficult mother and friendships. Using kinesiology to dump a boyfriend and the ice cream extravaganza are perfect.
September 16, 2012
There isn't an option for less than one star. I bought this from a Facebook ad....not a good idea; will never get sucked into that again. It read at about a 5th grade reading level written by an 8th grader. It lacked depth to the greatest degree. I couldn't stomach anything past the girls dinner where they were swooning over Brad Pitt and the like. Like totally, gag me with a spoon. Great title...horrible content.
August 6, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. It was great for me as a bit of light reading and I found that in some of Lorna's struggle to find her spirituality, I really identified with her. While I do think there were some unrealistic moments to the book, I still found myself enjoying the story. No one is perfect and it helped me to think that even though Lorna is a fictional character, I'm not the only one struggling to find my own enlightenment.
September 4, 2014
Ugh. After reading a number of murder mysteries and psychological thrillers, I thought I could use some chic lit....I was so wrong, and would have preferred to watch paint dry than read this dreck. It reads as though it was written by a 9 year old, and I couldn't get past page 87. Back to the murder mysteries for me.
January 17, 2013
Too cheesy and cliche to even think about this one. I can't imagine how it ever got published. Every other line of dialogue was from some popular spiritual reading. The other half was punctuated with several exclamation points in a "join me!!!!" silliness. And imagine how all that spiritual practice works!!!!!'
January 1, 2016
A snoozer with an immature and, at times, unlikable main character. Too bad, really, as the premise held such promise.
May 6, 2020
This book was just okay. I had high hopes for it, but the author seemed to empty the kitchen sink of new age ideas and authors into the book. I love yoga and respect some of the authors, but in her attempt to be open minded, Lorna appeared to leave behind common sense and read and embrace every new age book and idea no matter how far fetched. The book came across as new age preachy to me, especially as Lorna became more spiritually minded.
March 1, 2022
Best fiction book I have read in a long time!
Own
Own
May 9, 2021
Just the kickstart I needed to begin my own exploration of spirituality.
October 5, 2012
I received a copy of Downward Dog, Upward Fog in exchange for an honest review.
Summary:
Lorna Crawford has a great boyfriend, longtime friends, and a well-paying job as special-events coordinator at a premium ice-cream manufacturer. But, out of sorts and filled with self-doubt, the 33 year old soon realizes that what she really wants is to stay on the spiritual path she keeps diving off of. Lorna jump-starts her efforts at a silent yoga retreat. But after returning from the mountain, she quickly loses her connection in the face of scheming coworkers, judgmental girlfriends, and, especially, her overly critical mother. Lorna also wrestles over her future with her boyfriend, a hot guy who takes her to the hottest places, but who can’t discern a meditation cushion from a toad stool. Reading spiritual books and visiting a channeler and energy healer move Lorna forward, but her confusion remains. Lorna’s seeking is put to the ultimate test when personal tragedy strikes. Will she come to truly understand that living spiritually has little to do with how you pretzel yourself on the yoga mat (although she gets plenty good at that), and everything to do with embracing the twists in everyday life?
My Review:
Lorna was a great character that I easily connected with. She was someone who could easily sit back and think she had it all, but she was searching for more, and it wasn’t just a man or a job that she was wanting - it was even more than that. I thought this book was very uplifting and motivational. I am also a big yoga fan, and I loved reading about the silent yoga retreat Lorna goes on. I think this is one to check out!
Summary:
Lorna Crawford has a great boyfriend, longtime friends, and a well-paying job as special-events coordinator at a premium ice-cream manufacturer. But, out of sorts and filled with self-doubt, the 33 year old soon realizes that what she really wants is to stay on the spiritual path she keeps diving off of. Lorna jump-starts her efforts at a silent yoga retreat. But after returning from the mountain, she quickly loses her connection in the face of scheming coworkers, judgmental girlfriends, and, especially, her overly critical mother. Lorna also wrestles over her future with her boyfriend, a hot guy who takes her to the hottest places, but who can’t discern a meditation cushion from a toad stool. Reading spiritual books and visiting a channeler and energy healer move Lorna forward, but her confusion remains. Lorna’s seeking is put to the ultimate test when personal tragedy strikes. Will she come to truly understand that living spiritually has little to do with how you pretzel yourself on the yoga mat (although she gets plenty good at that), and everything to do with embracing the twists in everyday life?
My Review:
Lorna was a great character that I easily connected with. She was someone who could easily sit back and think she had it all, but she was searching for more, and it wasn’t just a man or a job that she was wanting - it was even more than that. I thought this book was very uplifting and motivational. I am also a big yoga fan, and I loved reading about the silent yoga retreat Lorna goes on. I think this is one to check out!
November 15, 2011
Lorna is a daughter, sister, co-worker and friend. At times each one of these titles and the people that make her these titles causes her stress. Throughout the book she tries out techniques to use to center herself and find more of the good in each situation. At times, her struggles were resolved quite easily in comparison to the "real" world interactions the reader would encounter.
A piece of fiction that made me reflect on my daily interactions with co-workers and friends, this doesn't happen often. I was engrossed in Lorna's battle with becoming more centered, yet having to interact with co-workers that caused stress and a mother that pushed every button imaginable. I took her struggle to heart and was able to start thinking about the techniques she used and try to place them in my every day life. Although, this wasn't a self-help book - this book can help the reader find some of the things that she does useful to their everyday life.
I would recommend this book to those who have always seen the yogi existence as something that is too big to be achieved, but instead in parts some of her exercises can be incorporated into one's life. We could all find a little positivity and yogi in our lives.
A piece of fiction that made me reflect on my daily interactions with co-workers and friends, this doesn't happen often. I was engrossed in Lorna's battle with becoming more centered, yet having to interact with co-workers that caused stress and a mother that pushed every button imaginable. I took her struggle to heart and was able to start thinking about the techniques she used and try to place them in my every day life. Although, this wasn't a self-help book - this book can help the reader find some of the things that she does useful to their everyday life.
I would recommend this book to those who have always seen the yogi existence as something that is too big to be achieved, but instead in parts some of her exercises can be incorporated into one's life. We could all find a little positivity and yogi in our lives.
April 6, 2012
First, let me say that I normally do not read "chick lit," but I made an exception for this because I like yoga, and I'm drawn to fiction and memoirs featuring yoga. As of this posting, there's very little fiction featuring yoga, so I try to be open minded and give them all a shot.
When I first started reading this, I had a really tough time sticking with it. The lead character is so shallow and uninteresting in the beginning. I kept putting the book down because I was so bored with the lead character. This went on for quite a while, but I stuck with it. Things finally got interesting with the introduction of yoga, meditation and some quotes from "spiritual" books. I did enjoy some of the quotes from those books.
All in all, it's an okay novel. The characters weren't that interesting, the story line wasn't that gripping, and it certainly wasn't a page turner.
The author's strength seems to be exploring the internal life of the lead character as she matures.
The ending was too pat and tied up with a bow. Then again, this is chick lit with some yoga and meditation thrown in.
When I first started reading this, I had a really tough time sticking with it. The lead character is so shallow and uninteresting in the beginning. I kept putting the book down because I was so bored with the lead character. This went on for quite a while, but I stuck with it. Things finally got interesting with the introduction of yoga, meditation and some quotes from "spiritual" books. I did enjoy some of the quotes from those books.
All in all, it's an okay novel. The characters weren't that interesting, the story line wasn't that gripping, and it certainly wasn't a page turner.
The author's strength seems to be exploring the internal life of the lead character as she matures.
The ending was too pat and tied up with a bow. Then again, this is chick lit with some yoga and meditation thrown in.
May 21, 2014
A really fun and spiritual read which makes you think. Lorna isn't really happy with her life, but isn't really unhappy either. She just begins to change, and finds her friends less entertaining, and feels her direction needs to change. She begins meditation and yoga, and meets a lot of new people. She starts to feel amazing, and discovers so much more positive energy in her life.
I try to live a mindful and meditative life myself. My husband and boyfriend of 39 years died this January very suddenly, and I feel if I wasn't meditating and going to my intuition and clairvoyant classes, I would be wandering around like a lost soul. It has literally been the only thing that has made me feel I could go on, and my classmates tell me I have a healing and light hearted energy. Their encouragement and my son's love have given me the strength to go on without my best friend.
If you need encouragement or just a fun read, you will love this book.
I try to live a mindful and meditative life myself. My husband and boyfriend of 39 years died this January very suddenly, and I feel if I wasn't meditating and going to my intuition and clairvoyant classes, I would be wandering around like a lost soul. It has literally been the only thing that has made me feel I could go on, and my classmates tell me I have a healing and light hearted energy. Their encouragement and my son's love have given me the strength to go on without my best friend.
If you need encouragement or just a fun read, you will love this book.
December 24, 2014
The story was WAY too cutesy! The detailed descriptions of outfits, the caricature-like people, and the storyline were just nauseatingly sweet and simplistic. The women, as described, were shallow and had shallow conversations. I had to keep convincing myself to pick the book back up and continue reading. What I did admire is how the author tried to bring the quest for spirituality into real life circumstances. Once in awhile, as i was reading, I would find a little nugget that i could apply to my own life, and that is what helped me finish. I would have loved this book if the women were more like me and less like cartoons. A thoughtful book without so many "smiley-face" moments would have pleased me. I hope someone writes it or I hope someone has. I like The Poser better for being more like the book I want.
May 10, 2015
Quitting after reading 1/3 of the book. The main character has one emotional setting: DRAMATIC. She's dramatically anxious (oh no! Can I walk through the door of this yoga studio? There might be freaky deaky people in there!), then dramatically happy (Luckily, this cute, perky, beautiful woman showed up and dragged me inside! She's gonna be my bff! Btw, class was amazing!), then back to anxious again (omg! I have to share a room! And worse yet, there's one bathroom for 3 people! How can I ever survive this weekend yoga retreat?!)
While all of the above is paraphrasing, it's true to the tone of the book. I couldn't bear to read anymore of this. Maybe it's meant to appeal to a younger audience? Either way, there's too many books I want to read to waste time trying to see if the book redeems itself.
While all of the above is paraphrasing, it's true to the tone of the book. I couldn't bear to read anymore of this. Maybe it's meant to appeal to a younger audience? Either way, there's too many books I want to read to waste time trying to see if the book redeems itself.
October 1, 2011
This book has been added to my list of "all time favorites!" If you are looking for a novel which can also educate you and help you grow spiritually, then this is the book for you. Lorna, the main character of the book, finds that even though we may "seem" to have a perfect life, you can feel as if something is deeply missing.
I felt that I could relate to Lorna in so many ways, and learned so much while "following her" on her spiritual path.
Meryl Davids Landau does a fantastic job of combining two books into one: a novel, and a spiritual guide. I have learned so much from this book. I highly recommend this book!
I felt that I could relate to Lorna in so many ways, and learned so much while "following her" on her spiritual path.
Meryl Davids Landau does a fantastic job of combining two books into one: a novel, and a spiritual guide. I have learned so much from this book. I highly recommend this book!
February 21, 2012
This book has been added to my list of "all time favorites!" If you are looking for a novel which can also educate you and help you grow spiritually, then this is the book for you. Lorna, the main character of the book, finds that even though we may "seem" to have a perfect life, you can feel as if something is deeply missing.
I felt that I could relate to Lorna in so many ways, and learned so much while "following her" on her spiritual path.
Meryl Davids Landau does a fantastic job of combining two books into one: a novel, and a spiritual guide. I have learned so much from this book. I highly recommend this book!
I felt that I could relate to Lorna in so many ways, and learned so much while "following her" on her spiritual path.
Meryl Davids Landau does a fantastic job of combining two books into one: a novel, and a spiritual guide. I have learned so much from this book. I highly recommend this book!
May 14, 2012
Downward Dog Upward Fog by Meryl Davids Landau was an enjoyable read about a young career girl, Lorna, working through relationship issues. She utilizes yoga and a radio talk show host to change her thinking about the situations she is facing. She learns to put a positive spin on everything. Rather than trying to change others, changing her thoughts of them made her a happier person. She had the support of a loving sister, brother-in-law, niece, and a slew of girlfriends who helped her along the way. I liked the way the author seamlessly wove the concepts of yoga into the story. It was a great title for the book.
October 7, 2014
I did enjoy reading this book and the general inspiring message behind it, but I also found it slightly corny.
It's about a woman in her 30s with a good job and cute boyfriend who finds herself increasingly frustrated, impatient and angry. She somewhat reluctantly starts down a spiritual journey and starts finding peace in her life. Even when it felt a bit corny, I still liked the message that our outlook and visualization of our lives affects them deeply, and that we control how we react to things. It was a fun and easy read, and I admit that it made me want to pay more attention to those aspects of my life and nurture my spiritual side a little more.
It's about a woman in her 30s with a good job and cute boyfriend who finds herself increasingly frustrated, impatient and angry. She somewhat reluctantly starts down a spiritual journey and starts finding peace in her life. Even when it felt a bit corny, I still liked the message that our outlook and visualization of our lives affects them deeply, and that we control how we react to things. It was a fun and easy read, and I admit that it made me want to pay more attention to those aspects of my life and nurture my spiritual side a little more.
February 19, 2012
I very much enjoyed reading this book about one woman's quest for spiritual peace. It was fun to read yet had important things to say and to think about. It is almost a "guidebook" but it encourages each reader to find their own way. It talks of yoga, meditations and ways to get to where you want to go...it's relatable to my life but still challenged me to do my own "quest" and to take the ideas from the book and think on them, and then make my own choices, think my own thoughts and go where they lead me.
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