Lykins advises readers not to approach Reflections in “chronological order” and instead to “surrender fully” to what they “see and feel” while browsing the book.That means that Lykins’ repetitive revisiting of a few powerful ideas is less of an issue than it might be in a traditional guidebook, but the inconsistent layout is not optimized for the ease of browsing. Chapters are numbered in the text, but not in the table of contents, and a pivot to relationship management advice near the end is a jarring shift. The accompanying art is evocative of the right moods—with an ephemeral sense of light in the landscapes and a mystical impression from human figures—but the sense of the canvas gets lost in the reproduction, and large stretches of white space diminish the illustrations’ impact.
Nevertheless, Lykins does an excellent job connecting her ideas to a wide range of thinkers in the Western tradition, pulling quotes from creative, scientific, business, and religious luminaries and using them to exemplify the idea of trusting the self to experience life from a strong internal grounding, undeterred by difficulties in the outside world. Lykins offers readers new to the idea of “inside-out” thinking a clear introduction, and those with some experience in cultivating a mind-centered perspective a good collection of jumping-off spots for reflection.
Takeaway: Awash in calming insight, these reflections on lasting happiness will appeal to readers looking to dip into universal wisdom.
Great for fans of: Sydney Banks’s The Enlightened Gardener; Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: B-
Illustrations: A-
Editing: B
Marketing copy: A
I keep this on my bedside table and glance through it before bedtime. I love that I can open it at any page and ponder the words or the art and engage in a meaningful reflection to augment my well being. It's just right for me in that it isn't a big commitment to read cover to cover in a continuous fashion. I love all of Elizabeth Lykins' work which always strike a chord for me as being just what the doctor ordered. And as a doctor, I do think people need more of this in their lives. Highly recommended! - Meredith Broderick
This book is a welcome reminder that we are each part of something bigger in the Universe. The inside out approach to living as explained by the three principles help guide the reader into a journey of happiness and self reflection. I highly recommend this if you are looking for a book to guide you on a path to living in the moment and self awareness. The art in this book is as beautiful as the written word. -Jason A.
“Although the words and the art within this book are beautiful and are certainly soul-stirring, the true magnificence of Elizabeth and Steven’s work and the source of innate resilience and well-being is not found there between the pages…” – Robin Lockhart, Therapeutic Coaching, Recipient of the 2016 Global Youth Worker of the Year award, by The Commonwealth
“The book is a beautiful compilation of ancient, timeless wisdom from many sources—I always enjoy reading how each of us uniquely presents with words what we see of the Three Principles.” – Linda Sandel Pettit, Ed D, Counseling Psychologist.
“Do yourself a big favor and get your hands on the remarkable new book by Elizabeth M. Lykins, Reflections on Transcendence. The vital message of the book is that life is best understood and lived from an inside-out perspective; that external circumstances are not the source of our experience. Expressed another way, it is the inside-out perspective that offers the best chance of living to the fullest. Dramatically illustrated by Steven D. Lyons, this important new book has the potential to transform your understanding of the human experience and offers a roadmap to a more peaceful and effortless life.” – Dr. John Countryman, Retired Theatre professor, Berry College. Recipient of two Kennedy Center, American College Theatre Festival Awards for Directing
“We all go through life with our thoughts swimming around in our minds and they define our lived experience. The bad ones pull us down and have undesirable ripple effects. In Reflections on Transcendence, Elizabeth helps readers navigate those troubling thoughts or state of mind. Whenever you want to feel differently, pause whatever you are doing. Take the book with you in your smartphone, tablet, or laptop—you never know when you may need it.” – Aamer Iqbal, MD, Asthma Specialist, and Certified Wellness Coach
“I think it is outstanding; the best 3P based access to wellbeing I have read.” – Bill Cumming, Director, The Boothby Institute and The Pause Place
“Reading through Reflections of Transcendence was similar to taking a trip through my life’s emotions log book. There were flashbacks to moments, places, people, experiences, that I had neatly, or not so neatly, tucked away, never to access again. Or so I thought. I would liken the words of this book to having a personal guidance counselor; one who allows the freedom to walk through the days of life in privacy and attempt to unlock one’s personal journey. This book took me on a journey through my personal suitcase.” – Celia McBride, RN, Emergency Medicine Nurse
“Reflections on Transcendence is pointing in one direction, where the human experience is really coming from. It’s like going on a journey, its beautiful artwork helps engage the creative mind, whilst the words gently guide you to your own insights and realizations. Be prepared to get comfortable, open your mind, and be open and curious about what you are hearing from inside.” – Clésia Mendes, Speaker and Mindset Head Coach
"Reflections on Transcendence is an inspiring book that reminds us to live in the present moment. In this day and age, we allow too many outward forces impact how we feel and perceive the world around us." - Rachel Ashworth
