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Take Your Time: Finding Balance in a Hurried World
A renowned expert on meditation presents a sequel to his book, Your Life Is Your Message, that offers readers deep yet practical ways of slowing down their everyday pace without sacrificing productivity by focusing their energies."
240 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1994
124 people are currently reading
1044 people want to read
About the author
Eknath Easwaran
215 books631 followersEknath Easwaran (1910–1999) is the originator of passage meditation and the author of more than 30 books on spiritual living.
Easwaran is a recognized authority on the Indian spiritual classics. His translations of The Bhagavad Gita, The Upanishads, and The Dhammapada are the best-selling editions in the USA, and over 1.5 million copies of his books are in print.
Easwaran was a professor of English literature and well known in India as a writer and speaker before coming to the United States in 1959 on the Fulbright exchange program. In 1961, he founded the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation, based in Tomales, California, which continues his work today through publications and retreats.
His 1968 class on the theory and practice of meditation at UC Berkeley is believed to be the first accredited course on meditation at any Western university. For those who seek him as a personal spiritual guide, Easwaran assured us that he lives on through his eight-point program of passage meditation.
"I am with you always”, he said. “It does not require my physical presence; it requires your open heart."
Please visit bmcm.org for a fuller biography.
Easwaran is a recognized authority on the Indian spiritual classics. His translations of The Bhagavad Gita, The Upanishads, and The Dhammapada are the best-selling editions in the USA, and over 1.5 million copies of his books are in print.
Easwaran was a professor of English literature and well known in India as a writer and speaker before coming to the United States in 1959 on the Fulbright exchange program. In 1961, he founded the Blue Mountain Center of Meditation, based in Tomales, California, which continues his work today through publications and retreats.
His 1968 class on the theory and practice of meditation at UC Berkeley is believed to be the first accredited course on meditation at any Western university. For those who seek him as a personal spiritual guide, Easwaran assured us that he lives on through his eight-point program of passage meditation.
"I am with you always”, he said. “It does not require my physical presence; it requires your open heart."
Please visit bmcm.org for a fuller biography.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 13, 2017
This is one of the best books I have ever read and I continue to read it very often.This is a book packed with a myriad of Knowledge.The facts discussed in this book relate more to our day today activities but we fail to identify the reasons that cause the delay and create stress in our life. The concepts/information provided are very simple, but when you truly apply these gems of wisdom in your personal life, the results are enormous.Eknath Eswaran a profound thinker and philosopher provides simple yet more detailed analysis on how the human mind works, the causes for stress and he provides us with simple techniques to control the mind and to overcome stress there by handling the day to day activities with an effortless ease.Reading this book and following the information specified in this book will change your life in a profound way. This is a must read book for any one interested in enhancing their life.
March 29, 2009
While reading: This book is an easy, quick read and extremely practical. I find it tough when people say "slow down" or "relax" without giving you any sort of idea of how to do it. But this book is all about practical steps you can take in your every day life to slow down your mind and feel more peaceful.
After finishing reading: This book is the kind of book I'd like to read again and again. I actually felt a bit of a void when I finished it because it is so practical and meaningful. Every night I would read a few pages and they would make me feel as though I had the tools to slow down my life and my mind. I actually don't read *any* "self-help" type books - and I wouldn't really consider this a "self-help" book - but I am glad I took the step (took the time - haha) to read it. I'm actually reading another one of Easwaran's books right now on meditation. It's actually hard for me to go back to reading fiction after reading this book; fiction doesn't seem as meaningful or practical at this moment in my life, if that makes sense. Hopefully the fiction bug will come back though!
After finishing reading: This book is the kind of book I'd like to read again and again. I actually felt a bit of a void when I finished it because it is so practical and meaningful. Every night I would read a few pages and they would make me feel as though I had the tools to slow down my life and my mind. I actually don't read *any* "self-help" type books - and I wouldn't really consider this a "self-help" book - but I am glad I took the step (took the time - haha) to read it. I'm actually reading another one of Easwaran's books right now on meditation. It's actually hard for me to go back to reading fiction after reading this book; fiction doesn't seem as meaningful or practical at this moment in my life, if that makes sense. Hopefully the fiction bug will come back though!
September 9, 2015
One of the best books on setting your priorities straight. Slowing down can help to reconnect with yourself. Eknath Easwaran is one of the best teachers guiding people the simple philosophy of true living. This is the one book which I like to read again and again. Excellent book for students, business executives, homemakers, parents and teachers.
June 18, 2018
Very practical spiritual advice, regardless of one's religion. In the christian life the skill of slowing down and living in the present are just as important as knowing what the Bible has to say. Practical spirituality is important.
September 7, 2024
Eknath Easwaran’s Take Your Time advocates slowing down in an increasingly hurried world, offering readers a pathway to finding peace amidst the chaos of modern life.
At its core, the book conveys the simple yet profound message that mindfulness and deliberate living can transform one’s experience of life, allowing us to savor even the smallest moments.
The greatest strength of Take Your Time lies in its simplicity. Easwaran doesn’t attempt to overwhelm readers with intricate theories or complex meditation techniques. Instead, he provides practical, everyday suggestions—whether it’s about taking a few moments to breathe deeply or adopting a meditative attitude while performing mundane tasks. He relates these principles to common experiences, like navigating work, relationships, and personal challenges. I believe this accessibility makes the book suitable for anyone, especially those who feel overwhelmed by spiritual texts filled with abstract concepts or difficult instructions. His words offer gentle encouragement, nudging readers toward a more peaceful way of being without demanding an immediate overhaul of their lives.
However, the same simplicity can also be viewed as a limitation, particularly for those who are already familiar with mindfulness, meditation, or spiritual practices. The book touches on ideas that are widely circulated in contemporary wellness and self-help literature, such as being present, avoiding multitasking, and taking time to appreciate life’s small moments. These ideas, though important, may feel repetitive or somewhat shallow for readers seeking a deeper philosophical or spiritual exploration. Easwaran does not dive deeply into the metaphysical aspects of mindfulness or the mechanics of meditation, which could leave some readers wanting a more rigorous or structured approach.
Additionally, while Easwaran’s personal anecdotes and examples lend warmth and relatability to the book, they occasionally detract from the overall depth of the message. His storytelling is endearing but at times leans into overly familiar territory, especially when recounting simple life lessons from his own experiences or offering straightforward solutions to complex issues. This reliance on anecdotal wisdom, while charming, may frustrate those who are looking for more substantial, research-based insights or nuanced discussions on spiritual growth.
Moreover, the brevity of the book limits the exploration of any one topic. Readers expecting a thorough guide to meditation or practical exercises to cultivate mindfulness may be disappointed. Easwaran provides glimpses into his teachings but does not delve into them with the intensity or clarity that a more dedicated seeker might require. While the book’s focus is on gradual change and a gentle approach to life, some readers may find this approach too vague, wishing for more concrete steps or a more focused framework for implementing his advice.
That said, the book succeeds in providing a gentle reminder of the importance of slowing down and living mindfully, which is particularly relevant in a world obsessed with productivity and speed. Its message is universal and enduring, and for many, it will serve as an accessible entry point into the practice of mindful living. Easwaran’s genuine compassion and desire to help others comes through in every page, making the book an uplifting and reassuring read. However, for readers seeking more than a surface-level exploration of mindfulness, it may serve more as a pleasant reminder than as a transformative guide.
Ultimately, the value of the book lies in its ability to meet readers where they are—whether at the beginning of their journey toward mindfulness or simply in need of a gentle nudge to take life a little slower
At its core, the book conveys the simple yet profound message that mindfulness and deliberate living can transform one’s experience of life, allowing us to savor even the smallest moments.
The greatest strength of Take Your Time lies in its simplicity. Easwaran doesn’t attempt to overwhelm readers with intricate theories or complex meditation techniques. Instead, he provides practical, everyday suggestions—whether it’s about taking a few moments to breathe deeply or adopting a meditative attitude while performing mundane tasks. He relates these principles to common experiences, like navigating work, relationships, and personal challenges. I believe this accessibility makes the book suitable for anyone, especially those who feel overwhelmed by spiritual texts filled with abstract concepts or difficult instructions. His words offer gentle encouragement, nudging readers toward a more peaceful way of being without demanding an immediate overhaul of their lives.
However, the same simplicity can also be viewed as a limitation, particularly for those who are already familiar with mindfulness, meditation, or spiritual practices. The book touches on ideas that are widely circulated in contemporary wellness and self-help literature, such as being present, avoiding multitasking, and taking time to appreciate life’s small moments. These ideas, though important, may feel repetitive or somewhat shallow for readers seeking a deeper philosophical or spiritual exploration. Easwaran does not dive deeply into the metaphysical aspects of mindfulness or the mechanics of meditation, which could leave some readers wanting a more rigorous or structured approach.
Additionally, while Easwaran’s personal anecdotes and examples lend warmth and relatability to the book, they occasionally detract from the overall depth of the message. His storytelling is endearing but at times leans into overly familiar territory, especially when recounting simple life lessons from his own experiences or offering straightforward solutions to complex issues. This reliance on anecdotal wisdom, while charming, may frustrate those who are looking for more substantial, research-based insights or nuanced discussions on spiritual growth.
Moreover, the brevity of the book limits the exploration of any one topic. Readers expecting a thorough guide to meditation or practical exercises to cultivate mindfulness may be disappointed. Easwaran provides glimpses into his teachings but does not delve into them with the intensity or clarity that a more dedicated seeker might require. While the book’s focus is on gradual change and a gentle approach to life, some readers may find this approach too vague, wishing for more concrete steps or a more focused framework for implementing his advice.
That said, the book succeeds in providing a gentle reminder of the importance of slowing down and living mindfully, which is particularly relevant in a world obsessed with productivity and speed. Its message is universal and enduring, and for many, it will serve as an accessible entry point into the practice of mindful living. Easwaran’s genuine compassion and desire to help others comes through in every page, making the book an uplifting and reassuring read. However, for readers seeking more than a surface-level exploration of mindfulness, it may serve more as a pleasant reminder than as a transformative guide.
Ultimately, the value of the book lies in its ability to meet readers where they are—whether at the beginning of their journey toward mindfulness or simply in need of a gentle nudge to take life a little slower
December 14, 2018
I needed this book at this crucial period of my life when I am juggling too many work opportunities and reaching mental overload from weighing all the pros and cons. Easwaran distills knowledge chiefly gained from buddhism and presents an easy guide to how to tame our mind. Easwaran recommends meditation and repetition of a mantram from sages of different religions (Lao Tzu, St. Francis of Assisi, Mahatma Gandhi, etc.) I find using a mantram to be very useful in putting a leash on my hurried mind!
Whether we like it or not, we live in a society that is obsessed with productivity. Time is money. And this is a detrimental to our emotional well-being. I have been subject to this productivity mindset as I used to obsess on tracking each hour of my day to only do important work. I obviously reached burnout, and even when I wanted to slow down, I had anxiety and guilt of not being productive. I had slowly come to realize that this goal of being super productive even to the point of cutting sleep time is a mindset perpetuated by a capitalist society obsessed with greed. We are human. We are not machines. At any time or day, we will die so why not enjoy life while doing great work?
But I digress. We all need to slow down and realize that the treasure in life is through serving others and “getting out of one self” as Easwaran explains in the book. So two key ideas from this book: If you feel like your mind is speeding, take it slow and repeat your mantram. And meditate for 30 minutes as soon as you wake up.
Whether we like it or not, we live in a society that is obsessed with productivity. Time is money. And this is a detrimental to our emotional well-being. I have been subject to this productivity mindset as I used to obsess on tracking each hour of my day to only do important work. I obviously reached burnout, and even when I wanted to slow down, I had anxiety and guilt of not being productive. I had slowly come to realize that this goal of being super productive even to the point of cutting sleep time is a mindset perpetuated by a capitalist society obsessed with greed. We are human. We are not machines. At any time or day, we will die so why not enjoy life while doing great work?
But I digress. We all need to slow down and realize that the treasure in life is through serving others and “getting out of one self” as Easwaran explains in the book. So two key ideas from this book: If you feel like your mind is speeding, take it slow and repeat your mantram. And meditate for 30 minutes as soon as you wake up.
February 16, 2022
This book is repetitive and is longer than it needs to be. Nevertheless, it has plenty of gems especially for people with Type A personalities. I remember reading this in 2018 when I felt paralyzed and overwhelmed by all the goals that I have set out for myself. I want it all at the least possible time. It was a stressful life.
Slowing down our life is a skill and Easwaran lays out eight suggestions:
1. Give yourself more time
2. Don’t crowd your day
3. Ask what’s important
4. Take time for relationships
5. Take time for reflection
6. Don’t let yourself get hurried
7. Cultivate patience
8. Slow down your mind
Since 2018, I have used the first three suggestions to improve the quality of my life. I have a few main goals for a given year and focus solely on these goals. The rest is noise. I try to say “No” to most things that will deviate me from my goals. On most days, I accomplish only two or three tasks with full attention.
Chapter two of this book is the cornerstone. The rest of the chapters seem to deviate from the central thesis. And like what I said, the rest of the book is repetitive after you've read the first few chapters.
Slowing down our life is a skill and Easwaran lays out eight suggestions:
1. Give yourself more time
2. Don’t crowd your day
3. Ask what’s important
4. Take time for relationships
5. Take time for reflection
6. Don’t let yourself get hurried
7. Cultivate patience
8. Slow down your mind
Since 2018, I have used the first three suggestions to improve the quality of my life. I have a few main goals for a given year and focus solely on these goals. The rest is noise. I try to say “No” to most things that will deviate me from my goals. On most days, I accomplish only two or three tasks with full attention.
Chapter two of this book is the cornerstone. The rest of the chapters seem to deviate from the central thesis. And like what I said, the rest of the book is repetitive after you've read the first few chapters.
October 11, 2020
Reading Take Your Time by Eknath Easwaran almost felt like that life changing class by a warm teacher replete with abundant Life wisdom. In the modern world that we've all built for ourselves and so carefully protect, that which only thrives on speed & frenzied activity, little do we realize that there's something far more important than material success, accomplishments and external validation of all that we do. In our unending quest for happiness in the world outside, an enriched & affectionately nourished inner world is what most of us neglect.
The author's simple yet profound wisdom on how each one of us can gracefully navigate every day with utmost kindness, patience & compassion make this book a compelling read.
All that we Seek is within & all that we Become within is what we Reflect, Seek & Create! I will keep going back to this masterpiece written by a gem of a teacher.
The author's simple yet profound wisdom on how each one of us can gracefully navigate every day with utmost kindness, patience & compassion make this book a compelling read.
All that we Seek is within & all that we Become within is what we Reflect, Seek & Create! I will keep going back to this masterpiece written by a gem of a teacher.
August 6, 2022
A relaxation book which reminds readers to slow down in every aspect. We always forget to kick brakes in our lives to stop for a while and think about events happening around us or about us.
Quick decisions, living a fast paced life is troublesome, that is what this book makes one to believe.
After reading this book, I started to slow down the way I think and react issues happening in my life and pushed myself toward more reasonable decisions.
Easy to read and easy to implement advices.
Quick decisions, living a fast paced life is troublesome, that is what this book makes one to believe.
After reading this book, I started to slow down the way I think and react issues happening in my life and pushed myself toward more reasonable decisions.
Easy to read and easy to implement advices.
December 31, 2019
What began as a promising book on slowing down turns out to be a hackneyed message about "all truths are the same. All religions just call it by different names" type stuff without philosophical rigour followed by prooftexted Buddha quotes and mini-verses from the Bible. Also assumes Cartesian dualism without clarification.
The practical stuff is helpful though.
The practical stuff is helpful though.
March 9, 2024
I bought this book because I want to pull away from the speed of modern society. Life is so fast that you can let it speed by before you remember to slow down and enjoy it. This was a great read, reminder, and helpful way to see the joy, love, and blessing in everything life has to offer. It's there. You just have to learn to slow down to be able to see and feel it!
July 6, 2025
Ask what is important.
Take time for relationships.
Take time for reflection.
Slow down your mind.
Cultivate patience.
Think your own thoughts, do not let your thoughts think for you.
Grow through challenges.
Undivided attention.
Take time to be quiet and sit in silence.
Living a life in balance diminishes disappointments.
Add meaning to every moment.
Meditation helps us discover who we are.
Take time for relationships.
Take time for reflection.
Slow down your mind.
Cultivate patience.
Think your own thoughts, do not let your thoughts think for you.
Grow through challenges.
Undivided attention.
Take time to be quiet and sit in silence.
Living a life in balance diminishes disappointments.
Add meaning to every moment.
Meditation helps us discover who we are.
September 12, 2018
A calming, beautiful little book, that gives simple encouragement and motivation for slowing down, quieting down, and living patiently and peacefully with a too-often frantic world. I needed it. I need it currently, and will probably keep this book and refer to it again.
January 4, 2021
Overall, a good book with a number of helpful, practical ideas for building a personal spiritual practice. His approach is generally non-sectarian and contains a fairly minimal amount of supernaturalism.
December 12, 2017
exceptionally good book
September 5, 2018
Wise thoughts and suggestions. First person references should have been fewer.
November 5, 2018
It was okay. Good ideas and advice, but a bit slow and boring at times. No wow factor
November 7, 2018
A beautiful book filled with wisdom. I thought it started a bit slowly. As I continued reading however, I was completely won over by his calm and reasonable voice.
December 12, 2020
Parts of this were wonderful, though most of it was simply okay. His writing voice is musical and kind. But towards the end, I was ready for the next book.
December 19, 2020
This was an insightful read that I did with a group. We discussed many of the jewels Easwaran shared, and I underlined a lot of sections for reference. I will take this off the self again and again.
January 19, 2021
I've started several of Easwaran's books. Many, I had felt, were either off-topic or repetitive. This was neither. Many concrete tips about slowing down.
February 7, 2021
Had a hard time with this one
I liked this book, however, I found it quite repetitive. Almost gave up on it a few times but choose to finish it, but it was tough at times.
I liked this book, however, I found it quite repetitive. Almost gave up on it a few times but choose to finish it, but it was tough at times.
Read
May 6, 2021lovely advice; currently open to rereading and reference/ study for meditative practice
November 24, 2021
A book full of love
A book full of love
I really like the way he write, simple and deep. I really love it. I will read others book from him
A book full of love
I really like the way he write, simple and deep. I really love it. I will read others book from him
February 7, 2022
A wonderful short book with practical tips to lead a more focused and fulfilling life, without renouncing to living in cities or Western societies. Its one of my favorite books.
May 19, 2022
Top. Viele gute Lebensweisheiten und Ratschläge um das eigene Leben zu entschleunigen und mehr zu konzentrieren. Am Ende werden alle 8 Punkte noch einmal kompakt zusammengefasst. Kann ich nur empfehlen.
April 26, 2023
One of the most practical and accessible guides to a mindful life I've ever read.
September 13, 2023
Absolutely brilliant. Working on these tips is life changing for real. Went through it twice. Loved it.
February 12, 2024
I really needed this book right now, to help remind me how slowing down is so much better for you. Slowing down can be speeding up.
March 1, 2025
Meditatie, rustige mindset en vele andere ingevingen voor het beheersen en leren leven met het leven :)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews