Reclaim democracy from the rhetoric of war with the radical power of mindfulness-a call to disarm our inner battlefields and take up the noble path of civic engagement rooted in clarity, compassion, and courageous presence

On Mindful Democracy is a timely, tender, and transformative guide for citizens who care deeply about the world but feel disillusioned by the state of public discourse. Written by Professor Jeremy David Engels-scholar, mindfulness teacher, and longtime student of Thich Nhat Hanh-this book offers an antidote to political burnout and civic despair. Drawing on Zen philosophy and practical experience, Engels proposes that mindfulness is not only a path to personal peace, but a vital practice for renewing democracy itself.

Structured in the spirit of On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder, this compact, accessible book delivers twenty profound teachings-each a short chapter-on how to show up for democracy with compassion, clarity, and courage. It invites readers to step away from enemyship, to root their activism in shared humanity, and to declare their interdependence.

Readers will discover:
• How mindfulness can heal the civic wounds of polarization and fear
• Practices for engaging with news and social media without being consumed
• A reimagining of democracy as collective empowerment, not endless conflict
• Zen stories and teachings to inspire transformation
• Practical tips for showing up skillfully in moments of disagreement and tension

Whether you're a seasoned activist or a tender-hearted citizen seeking a new path forward, On Mindful Democracy offers a lantern in the dark-and a quiet call to remember who we are, and what we're here to do, together.