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Mirror Meditation: The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism, Gain Confidence, and See Yourself with Compassion
Discover the power of mirror meditation to help you awaken self-compassion, increase self-awareness, and gain the confidence needed to thrive.
Seeing ourselves clearly isn’t always easy—especially in the age of social media. Technology has eroded our capacity for authentic self-reflection. As a result, we feel more anxious and depressed, have shorter attention spans, and have become more estranged from ourselves and each other. We’ve also become more critical of our physical appearance, and this self-criticism can damage our confidence and stand in the way of our happiness. In order to heal, we must come face to face with our true selves—not the images of ourselves that we alter and post online. If you're ready for self-reflection that has nothing to do with selfies, this book will reveal the way.
Based in cutting-edge neuroscience, Mirror Meditation offers mindful practices for increasing your self-awareness, managing stress and emotions, developing self-compassion, and increasing your confidence and personal presence. Using the three principles of mindfulness meditation—attention to the present moment, open awareness, and kind intention toward oneself—you’ll realize just how much your self-criticisms are affecting you. Then you’ll have a choice—and a practice—to treat yourself with more self-acceptance.
Self-awareness can help you break free from both your inner critic and the external world that stokes the fears and anxieties that we are never good enough, never have enough, and are never safe enough. The simple self-mirroring technique in this unique guide isn’t grounded in technology—just a commitment to be present with yourself.
Seeing ourselves clearly isn’t always easy—especially in the age of social media. Technology has eroded our capacity for authentic self-reflection. As a result, we feel more anxious and depressed, have shorter attention spans, and have become more estranged from ourselves and each other. We’ve also become more critical of our physical appearance, and this self-criticism can damage our confidence and stand in the way of our happiness. In order to heal, we must come face to face with our true selves—not the images of ourselves that we alter and post online. If you're ready for self-reflection that has nothing to do with selfies, this book will reveal the way.
Based in cutting-edge neuroscience, Mirror Meditation offers mindful practices for increasing your self-awareness, managing stress and emotions, developing self-compassion, and increasing your confidence and personal presence. Using the three principles of mindfulness meditation—attention to the present moment, open awareness, and kind intention toward oneself—you’ll realize just how much your self-criticisms are affecting you. Then you’ll have a choice—and a practice—to treat yourself with more self-acceptance.
Self-awareness can help you break free from both your inner critic and the external world that stokes the fears and anxieties that we are never good enough, never have enough, and are never safe enough. The simple self-mirroring technique in this unique guide isn’t grounded in technology—just a commitment to be present with yourself.
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Published June 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
July 8, 2022
Meditation is a new practice to me, but the older I get the more drawn to learning how to be present and genuine with myself and others I become. Social media is an amazing tool, but our mental health and self images have paid the heaviest price for making it a regular part of everyday life. If I want to relearn how to incorporate social media into my life in a healthy and productive way, I need to start by looking inside myself so that I can better understand where my boundaries lie. This book provided the jumping off point for that journey.
Here are a few points I took away:
• It uses peer reviewed science throughout to support mirror meditation, and is presented in an easily digestible way. You may see the word Neuroscience and expect to read something dense and slightly confusing. However, the information is presented in a way that will empower and inspire, rather than discourage.
• It reads almost like a workbook. There is a "Try This" section at the end of the chapters that gives you practical and helpful ways to incorporate the concept you've just read into everyday practice. Sometimes you will use the actual mirror and sometimes you may be asked to do some self reflection internally rather than externally. I found it helpful to keep my journal handy so that I was better prepared for the internal reflection prompts. I also like the fact that I can look back on my answers in the future.
• The chapters are short which is another aspect that makes the book easily digestible. I enjoyed being able to read a few chapters each day and focus on them, rather than feel like I needed to overload my brain with a book's worth of new information over the course of a couple days.
By the end of the book, you will have explored many common self-destructive behaviors and criticisms, and the "why" behind each. You will have the opportunity to take steps towards correcting them for your sake and others'. I plan to look back on the information inside these pages often, whenever I need another refresher on how I can "Live Reflectively."
Here are a few points I took away:
• It uses peer reviewed science throughout to support mirror meditation, and is presented in an easily digestible way. You may see the word Neuroscience and expect to read something dense and slightly confusing. However, the information is presented in a way that will empower and inspire, rather than discourage.
• It reads almost like a workbook. There is a "Try This" section at the end of the chapters that gives you practical and helpful ways to incorporate the concept you've just read into everyday practice. Sometimes you will use the actual mirror and sometimes you may be asked to do some self reflection internally rather than externally. I found it helpful to keep my journal handy so that I was better prepared for the internal reflection prompts. I also like the fact that I can look back on my answers in the future.
• The chapters are short which is another aspect that makes the book easily digestible. I enjoyed being able to read a few chapters each day and focus on them, rather than feel like I needed to overload my brain with a book's worth of new information over the course of a couple days.
By the end of the book, you will have explored many common self-destructive behaviors and criticisms, and the "why" behind each. You will have the opportunity to take steps towards correcting them for your sake and others'. I plan to look back on the information inside these pages often, whenever I need another refresher on how I can "Live Reflectively."
June 27, 2022
Take a look in the mirror. Whom do you see? If you’re critical of the person you’re looking at, then Mirror Meditation, The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism, Gain Confidence, and See Yourself With Compassion, by Tara Well, PhD. Dr. Well introduces a new and prevailing method to self-awareness and comprehension, how we view ourselves and perceive others. Based on science, Dr. Well makes the methodology to self-awareness accessible, intriguing and enjoyable.
Dr. Well, PhD, knows has in-depth knowledge of what she writes. Among her numerous achievements, “she is an associate professor of psychology at Barnard College of Columbia University in New York, NY, where she developed a mirror-based meditation called ‘a revelation’ in The New York Times. She is also an expert on self-awareness, body-image, self-compassion, emotional resilience, and meditation” (271).
Well’s writing style is casual yet informative. She doesn’t thump her readers with psychological jargon. She doesn’t talk down to her readers either. Instead, Wells reaches their inner core with compassion and information. In addition, she provides exercises that educate readers in mindfulness through in-depth stories and research bases psychological discoveries to increase self-awareness, and mindfulness, and reduce self-objectification.
I am giving, Mirror Meditation, The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism, Gain Confidence, and See Yourself With Compassion, by Tara Wells, PhD, 5 out of 5 stars. Dr. Wells has accomplished what many haven’t even imagined: an informative and captivating read. I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
Dr. Well, PhD, knows has in-depth knowledge of what she writes. Among her numerous achievements, “she is an associate professor of psychology at Barnard College of Columbia University in New York, NY, where she developed a mirror-based meditation called ‘a revelation’ in The New York Times. She is also an expert on self-awareness, body-image, self-compassion, emotional resilience, and meditation” (271).
Well’s writing style is casual yet informative. She doesn’t thump her readers with psychological jargon. She doesn’t talk down to her readers either. Instead, Wells reaches their inner core with compassion and information. In addition, she provides exercises that educate readers in mindfulness through in-depth stories and research bases psychological discoveries to increase self-awareness, and mindfulness, and reduce self-objectification.
I am giving, Mirror Meditation, The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism, Gain Confidence, and See Yourself With Compassion, by Tara Wells, PhD, 5 out of 5 stars. Dr. Wells has accomplished what many haven’t even imagined: an informative and captivating read. I would highly recommend this book to everyone.
July 21, 2022
This book explores a new way to increase your self-awareness and gain self-confidence. It involves sitting and meditating while sitting in front of a mirror.
Few people like to look at themselves in a mirror. It will take time, and practice, to get past the person on the outside (crow's feet, thinning hair, dark circles under the eyes) and see the person on the inside. As with all meditation, start by sitting in a comfortable chair, and slow your breathing. It will also help calm you down when you are having a bad day.
Everyone has inner voices, the Inner Nurturer and the Inner Critic. Believe it or not, the Inner Critic is trying to protect you. Don't try to keep the Critic out. When it decides to make an appearance, let it in, and let it stay for a while. Then, push it out of your brain, so you can get back to being in the present moment and being kind to yourself.
It helps that the chapters are short, so it is possible to read a little bit per day. There are exercises at the end of each chapter, so you can practice each new concept. It also talks about getting real connections with others, which do not come from "likes" and selfies.
This book is very much recommended for everyone.
Few people like to look at themselves in a mirror. It will take time, and practice, to get past the person on the outside (crow's feet, thinning hair, dark circles under the eyes) and see the person on the inside. As with all meditation, start by sitting in a comfortable chair, and slow your breathing. It will also help calm you down when you are having a bad day.
Everyone has inner voices, the Inner Nurturer and the Inner Critic. Believe it or not, the Inner Critic is trying to protect you. Don't try to keep the Critic out. When it decides to make an appearance, let it in, and let it stay for a while. Then, push it out of your brain, so you can get back to being in the present moment and being kind to yourself.
It helps that the chapters are short, so it is possible to read a little bit per day. There are exercises at the end of each chapter, so you can practice each new concept. It also talks about getting real connections with others, which do not come from "likes" and selfies.
This book is very much recommended for everyone.
July 4, 2022
A phenomenal read. This can be a life changing book, if practiced. Even though it can feel awkward at first, it's about committing to the practice and this form of self-reflection truly changed my life. Tara Well is wonderful for having made these insights accessible to the general public, instead of being hidden deep in research papers and out of sight. This book is nothing like what you'll find elsewhere and is truly one to buy!
June 15, 2022
Professor Tara Well's Mirror Mediation invites us to look deeply into ourselves through the mirror and challenges us to reinvent the way we see our reflections. With stories of shared human experiences, her own research, and a wide array of studies from neuroscience and psychology, Well makes a compelling and wholesome case for the power of mirror meditation. The book also includes various "try this" exercises in every chapter to guide the reader's own exploration in the mirror including simple practices, guided questions, and video journaling prompts. Well teaches that mirror meditation, as a practice, is extraordinarily accessible to anyone interested in seeing themselves more honestly and compassionately. Furthermore, Well’s personal anecdotes, signature writing style, and straightforwardness make this book feel authentic and relatable. It's an extremely interesting read that draws links between reflections and unexpected topics such as human attachment, loneliness, and of course narcissism
September 7, 2022
I frequently meditate, but have never considered looking into a mirror to do so. I'm basically uncomfortable looking at myself, and that's one of the things the author discusses in this enlightening book. It's easy to read and very interactive, with exercises to indulge in along the way. The book not only has awakened me to better self-acceptance, it's also opened my eyes to how others might view me. The result is a better understanding of all aspects of life, whether it's fear,anxiety, low self-esteem, occasional anger, and any number of daily occurrences. If you're at all interested in better self-discovery (and who isn't?), I can't recommend this book enough!
July 29, 2022
Tara Well's Mirror Meditation: The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism, Gain Confidence, and See Yourself with Compassion helps Readers for those days when they don't feel good about themselves and don't want to look in the mirror.
While people with Narcissism gaze into the mirror to notice their more attractive features or to confirm their ideas of perfection, Well insists that her technique isn't like that. Instead, she encourages her Readers to look at their reflections to find their imperfections. What makes them sad, angry, fearful, anxious, and fills them with self -doubt.
Well asks her Readers to look at their reflections and take private video diaries. These methods encourage self talk and why people feel negative and self-critical feelings. Sometimes they may come from abuse and bullying. A person with verbally abusive parents may find it easier to believe all of the bad things about themselves than the good. Finding the roots of their Self-Criticism allow the Readers to understand, accept, and maybe even love their imperfections.
One of the changes that Readers can make is to alter the critical voice. For example, if a person makes a mistake during a speech, the inner voice reminds the speaker about all the laughter during the mistake. To counter the criticism, the speaker can remind themselves that they spoke in a loud clear voice, point out all the things that they got right, and to remember the applause that followed the speech.
One of the best sections involves Anxiety. Many of us who suffer from Anxiety often have unexplainable fears and worries that could be triggered by anything: a past due notice, the lack of response from an email, watching the news, anything. Well's Mirror Meditation process advises anxious Readers to practice breathing and mindfulness exercises. They can use body and mind awareness by focusing on the moment and slowing their reaction. This relaxes the mind and body and calms the flight-fight-freeze response that comes with Anxiety. It also allows the person with Anxiety to relax and wait until they are calmer to face whatever issue might be troubling them.
The mirror is more than a tool for looking on the outside. It can be one to look at the inside as well.
While people with Narcissism gaze into the mirror to notice their more attractive features or to confirm their ideas of perfection, Well insists that her technique isn't like that. Instead, she encourages her Readers to look at their reflections to find their imperfections. What makes them sad, angry, fearful, anxious, and fills them with self -doubt.
Well asks her Readers to look at their reflections and take private video diaries. These methods encourage self talk and why people feel negative and self-critical feelings. Sometimes they may come from abuse and bullying. A person with verbally abusive parents may find it easier to believe all of the bad things about themselves than the good. Finding the roots of their Self-Criticism allow the Readers to understand, accept, and maybe even love their imperfections.
One of the changes that Readers can make is to alter the critical voice. For example, if a person makes a mistake during a speech, the inner voice reminds the speaker about all the laughter during the mistake. To counter the criticism, the speaker can remind themselves that they spoke in a loud clear voice, point out all the things that they got right, and to remember the applause that followed the speech.
One of the best sections involves Anxiety. Many of us who suffer from Anxiety often have unexplainable fears and worries that could be triggered by anything: a past due notice, the lack of response from an email, watching the news, anything. Well's Mirror Meditation process advises anxious Readers to practice breathing and mindfulness exercises. They can use body and mind awareness by focusing on the moment and slowing their reaction. This relaxes the mind and body and calms the flight-fight-freeze response that comes with Anxiety. It also allows the person with Anxiety to relax and wait until they are calmer to face whatever issue might be troubling them.
The mirror is more than a tool for looking on the outside. It can be one to look at the inside as well.
September 17, 2022
At the start of her accessible book on mirror meditation, Tara Well PhD introduces her readers to the importance of mirror meditation and how to perform the technique. Interweaving both psychological and neuroscience research findings throughout the book, linked to a variety of subtopics ranging from Maslow's hierarchal needs to narcissism, Tara cleverly describes these works in a way that is attainable to her readers from a variety of backgrounds--no PhD required. Further, unlike other books in this genre, "Mirror Meditation" challenges you to do an exercise or two at the end of each short chapter as an applied practice of your knowledge learned. Not only encouraging mirror meditation, Tara Well PhD also suggests other techniques for self-realization and introspection as well, such as video-journaling, providing flexibility to readers. Throughout "Mirror Meditation", successful stories from therapeutic experiences were shared (with consent), which provide further insight for both future users and mental health providers interested in this technique who can benefit from evaluating an array of contexts in which the technique was applied, and was ultimately, successful. Some of these narratives came from the author's own lived experience, providing a sense of transparency. Certainly, Tara Well PhD's "Mirror Meditation" provides a unique foray to this technique for a general audience, while granting the support of both therapeutic experience and psychological research.
August 4, 2024
Self-reflection is always challenging, especially in these times of selfies and social media accounts. We are surrounded by technologies and opinions that are not our own and that tell us how to think and feel, leaving us adrift from our authentic selves. Mirror Meditation offers mindfulness practices for growing self-awareness, managing stress, and developing self-compassion.
I struggle with medication. I always have, especially sitting medications. But this book offered something a bit different. It asks the reader to look into the mirror, really look, and see yourself. While I consider myself a spiritual person, I am a person of science as well. So the fact that the science behind this book is backed by peer review lends more weight to it than typical self-help books. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a little help feeling better about themselves.
I struggle with medication. I always have, especially sitting medications. But this book offered something a bit different. It asks the reader to look into the mirror, really look, and see yourself. While I consider myself a spiritual person, I am a person of science as well. So the fact that the science behind this book is backed by peer review lends more weight to it than typical self-help books. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a little help feeling better about themselves.
November 10, 2024
I only read the first 10% of the book and skimmed the next 10%. I was excited for the content, especially after reading the introduction and reflecting over my own complicated feelings with mirrors, but the author’s writing was dry and uninspiring. Ironically it felt as though the author was talking at me rather than empathizing. The content was too hand-wavy and non-specific to feel meaningful, with ultra short chapters, each repeating a similar variation of “you probably have complex feelings when you look in a mirror and may feel self conscious, and I encourage you to try to reassert your focus to more productive and compassionate thoughts instead.” The sections in the second half of the book seemed more interesting based on their titles but it didn’t feel worth it to read that far in.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2023
Self awareness is not a particularly new topic nor is the use of a mirror in therapy. Perhaps because I struggle with meditation in this form that the appeal fell flat to me. Therapy is subjective and an approach that doesn't work for one doesn't mean it doesn't work. Perhaps this is more a reflection on me that I prefer not to spend extra time in front of a mirror
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 19, 2024
read this as an assignment for class, it's my prof's book — i feel like for a book on mirror meditation it didn't focus a lot on mirror meditation itself and that each chapter was a different pop psychology concept overview. so i didn't really get anything out of it. although it's an interesting idea.
September 5, 2022
What a pleasure to find this self-help book that's deeply informative, unique in its approach, well organized, comprehensive, and helpful. Thank you, Dr. Wells, for expanding my perspective on myself, my clients, and others in my life. It's a lot to reflect on, pun intended and not intended.
August 19, 2023
sooo good rly want to buy for my bookshelf
November 19, 2025
Es maravilloso . Es tercera vez que lo leo
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews