Sarah Napthali has written 3 books under the “Buddhism for Mothers” series. I read each one as it came out – they seemed nicely timed to suit my daughter’s age.

One concept from these books that really resonated with me was how Napthali talks about karma. We all know the concept of karma being things happening in this lifetime due to deeds in previous lifetimes. The alternate idea of karma – as being more like a habit – has stuck with me. I do find myself thinking – “Is this a way of thinking I want to reinforce”? “Is this a habit I want to get into”?

At the moment I am (still) reading The Power of Habit, and the scientific experiments in it seem to prove this interpretation of karma (as a habit) and of the importance of choosing the right habits.

I have read quite a few books about Buddhism. The difference with Napthali’s books is first of all they present Buddhist concepts in terms of the challenges mothers face. As a buddhist monk or nun, spending days in silence alone in a cave is possible (if you so wish). As a mother of a toddler, you can only dream of having 5 minutes alone, in peace. So these books talk of ‘dealing with anger’, ‘finding calm’, ‘is this all?’.

Secondly I like these books because, on the one hand, they are very pragmatic – ‘what can I do about the housework’ – but at the same time, they examine how to be the best we can be. In a mindful, caring, calm way. Focusing on what really matters.

I must read them again.