Description
Book SynopsisA revelatory, pragmatic, and beautifully rendered companion for the millions suffering from mental health issues
An invaluable resource for anyone struggling with anxiety, fear, or depression, The Art of Calm is a lifesaving and inspiring guidebook that empowers us to break free from the emotional bondage of mental illness. Bursting with deep personal insight and uplifting practical guidance, this remarkable and therapeutic journey begins by charting the author’s own devastating psychological descent—which included panic attacks so severe they landed him in the emergency room. When the medical system proved unable to provide sustained help, however, a floundering Roger Hutchison turned to his faith for guidance. The healing path God led him on was nothing short of miraculous, offering not only authentic spiritual renewal but also a profound sense of belonging in a world where he once only felt like a stranger.
Weaving these personal stories with thoughtful questions, journaling prompts, and a wide range of inspirational practices, Hutchison creates a self-help tapestry of compassion, vulnerability, and action. At the end of each chapter, a colorful variety of reflections and creative exercises—from photography, music, and meditation to cooking, hiking, and art— encourage readers to get up and discover a more centered and peaceful life. The result is an essential tool for finding tranquility in the midst of both inner and outer turmoil.
Trade Review"In The Art of Calm, Roger is refreshingly honest. Although he’s a tremendous artist and illustrator, he refuses to paint a perfect picture of life. Instead, he reminds his readers, we are not alone. He’s vulnerable and real. He doesn’t write as a mental health expert, but as a friend who has found a way through the mess, and learned how to experience calm." —Traci Rhoades, author of Not All Who Wander (Spiritually) Are Lost
“What a beautiful blend of personal memoir and effective guidance! This resource reflects the warm spirit of Roger Hutchison, and it generates the same hope and light that his ministry has brought to others. Thank you, Roger, for your courage and your spirit. Your journey, indeed your art, brings calm to the world!” —Samuel G. Candler, Dean, The Cathedral of St. Philip, Atlanta, GA
“’The Art of Calm: Spiritual Exercises for the Anxious Soul’ is about developing a practice, exploring strategies and finding sources of solace. It’s equal parts workbook, self-help guide, memoir and prayer book.”—Houston Chronicle
“Exceptionally well written, exceptionally well organized and thoroughly 'reader friendly' presentation, "The Art of Calm: Spiritual Exercises for the Anxious Soul" will be of special value for readers with an interest in a Christian approach to therapy and relaxation in dealing with the inevitable stresses and strains of daily life in these troubled times.”—"Wisconsin Bookwatch"
Table of Contents Important Message from the Author
How to Use This Book
Introduction
1. Crash
2. Rescue
3. Fear
4. Hunger
5. Anxiety
6. Stretch
7. Remember
8. Marked
9. Anger
10. Toxic
11. Fallow
12. Walk
13. See
14. Listen
15. Grow
16. Truth
17. Holy
18. Strong
19. Home
20. Forgive
21. Friend
22. Prayer
23. Hope
24. Heal
25. Giving
26. Color
27. Awe
28. Ritual
29. Purpose
30. Connection
31. Beginning
Conclusion. The Art of Calm
Acknowledgments
Recipe for Charlie Browns
Notes
List of Mental Health Resources
List of Children’s Books
