The book
From Stressed to Zen
A Mindfulness Journey for College Success and Beyond
You can't always change what life brings. You can change how you meet it.
Imagine having the tools to navigate life's challenges with greater calm, clarity, and confidence—not just for today, but for years to come.
Learning these skills in college can create a powerful foundation for life. But the beauty of mindfulness is that it's never too early—or too late—to begin.
Through relatable stories, practical exercises, and simple shifts in perspective, From Stressed to Zen makes mindfulness accessible and meaningful, whether you're navigating college, moving through a life transition, or simply ready to experience everyday life differently.
Small shifts in awareness. Powerful changes in how you live.
Reader testimonials
The Ripple Effect
Sometimes a small insight makes a lasting difference.
“I am very grateful for the time, energy and effort you put into this book. It is life changing and has taught me so much about what it means to be present and aware of myself in every way.”
“I’d rave about how simple and doable the practices are. Nothing feels overwhelming or unrealistic. It’s the kind of book where even a one-minute activity can shift your whole mindset.”
“I appreciate how approachable the book is. It doesn’t feel preachy or unrealistic. It feels like it was written by someone who understands what students are actually dealing with.”
Inside the book
Small shifts. Meaningful possibilities.
Mindfulness isn't about getting everything right. It's about becoming more aware of how we experience life—and discovering that we have more choices than we might realize.
Greater Awareness
Recognize familiar patterns and begin noticing how your thoughts, emotions, and habits shape your experiences.
More Calm and Choice
Explore practical mindfulness tools to navigate stress and respond to everyday challenges with greater clarity.
Meaningful Change
Bring what you're learning into daily life through small, intentional practices that support growth.
A note from the author
Why I Wrote This Book
I remember my college years vividly—juggling classes, working two jobs, commuting, and somehow trying to have a social life. I was often stressed, overwhelmed, and wishing I had a little more guidance along the way.
That experience stayed with me.
Throughout more than 30 years of teaching at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, I've continually explored ways to help students navigate life's pressures, recognize their own possibilities, and develop practical skills that serve them well beyond graduation.
From Stressed to Zen grew out of that journey.
I wanted to create something approachable, engaging, and genuinely useful—a collection of stories, insights, and mindfulness practices that people could bring into their everyday lives.
And while the stories come from college life, the lessons are for all of us.
My hope is simple: that these practices find their way into more lives, creating a ripple effect of greater awareness, compassion, and meaningful change—one person at a time.
Your next chapter
A little more awareness. A lot more possibility.
You don't have to change everything overnight. Sometimes meaningful change begins with a pause, a fresh perspective, or one small practice.
From Stressed to Zen is an invitation to begin.