a day ago
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
Pontarddulais man behind new mindfulness guide
David Oromith, from Pontarddulais, was having a mental health crisis at the age of 18 and planning his own death.
Now, more than 12 years later, he is a popular meditation teacher helping others find peace and happiness.
A desperate late-night Google search for "Why is life just suffering?" introduced him to the path that would change his life.
This summer, he releases a guide for people wrestling with anxiety, stress, and burnout.
'Calm Mind, Open Heart: 108 Reflections from Buddhism, Psychology & Real Life' distils the lessons that helped Mr Oromith trade panic attacks for peace of mind.
Mr Oromith said: "I know how real life feels – panic attacks, depression – and I want others to know genuine change is possible without escaping to a mountaintop.
"I learned that the hard way – and I wrote this book so no-one has to feel as helpless as I did."
Mr Oromith first encountered mindfulness while working in mental-health services, already grappling with depression himself.
He recalled: "Professionals told me I might have to just live with it.
"Buddhism showed me that thoughts aren't facts and compassion and happiness can be trained like any other skill."
Today, Mr Oromith co-runs the UK charity Samadhi, teaches weekly classes online and in person, runs retreats around the country, and produces podcasts.
Manu Oromith, Samadhi co-founder, said: "David's story proves small, daily changes can transform a life.
"'Calm Mind, Open Heart' puts that power in the reader's pocket."
The book is set to be published on August 1, with signed pre-orders being shipped on July 25.
The book can be pre-ordered on Samadhi's website for a signed copy delivered one week ahead of the street date and before the title appears on Amazon and in UK bookshops.
