Don't pay attention to the description on the back of the box as well as that given in the beginning of Tape 1--the content in the tapes is actually quite broad. These descriptions inaccurately reduce the tapes' actual content. The tapes are actually live recordings of a presentation Dr. Kabat-Zinn gave at a Zen conference of some sort in San Francisco about mindfulness in everyday life. The sound quality might not be top-notch, but, for me, this didn't matter.

Dr. Kabat-Zinn, as always, speaks with such sincerety, conviction, and plain logic, that you'll find his messages on embracing the present--no matter how painful or ugly--hard not to take to heart. While he is talking to an audience of people who had gathered for the conference, you feel as if you are right there with them all.

The 2-hour "Pebbles and Pearls" is separated into 15 minute segments, two of which are guided meditiations (with the audience participating), and the rest of which are explanations and encouragement about incorporating mindfulness into everyday situations. You might find the material more familiar, and therefore more helpful, if you have heard or read some of Dr. Kabat-Zinn's previous works.

If you feel stressed, that something is just not right, that something is missing in your life, or experience chronic anxiety, pain, or depression, then you should listen to what he has to say.