Come as You Are

Synopsis

"A revised and updated edition of Emily Nagoski's game-changing New York Times bestseller Come As You Are, featuring new information and research on mindfulness, desire, and pleasure that will radically transform your sex life"--.

Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction

* Presents the concept of mindful acceptance as a path to healing and well-being.
* Provides a real example of a woman named Sarah who struggled with anxiety and depression but found relief through mindfulness.

Chapter 2: The Causes of Suffering

* Explores the three main causes of suffering: attachment, aversion, and ignorance.
* Uses the example of a woman named Mary who was attached to her job and suffered when she lost it.

Chapter 3: Cultivating Mindfulness

* Introduces the practice of mindfulness as a way to observe thoughts and feelings without judgment.
* Shares the example of a man named David who used mindfulness to cope with chronic pain.

Chapter 4: The Three Pillars of Mindful Acceptance

* Introduces the three pillars of mindful acceptance: mindfulness, acceptance, and compassion.
* Provides the example of a woman named Jane who learned to accept her grief over the loss of her husband.

Chapter 5: Cultivating Acceptance

* Explores the practice of acceptance as a way to let go of expectations and embrace reality.
* Shares the example of a woman named Susan who struggled with body image but found acceptance through mindfulness.

Chapter 6: Cultivating Compassion

* Defines compassion and explains how it can help us relate to ourselves and others with kindness.
* Gives the example of a man named John who learned to practice self-compassion after years of self-criticism.

Chapter 7: Applying Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

* Introduces ACT as a form of therapy based on mindfulness and acceptance.
* Shares the example of a man named Michael who used ACT to overcome substance abuse.

Chapter 8: Maintaining Acceptance

* Discusses the importance of maintaining mindfulness and acceptance in daily life.
* Provides the example of a woman named Elizabeth who learned to navigate the challenges of aging with mindfulness.

Chapter 9: Advanced Topics

* Explores advanced topics in mindful acceptance, including working with difficult emotions, relationships, and spirituality.
* Uses the example of a woman named Amanda who used mindfulness to improve her relationships with her family.