What is the theme in Peace Is Every Step by Nhat Hanh?

Mindful living is the primary theme within the novel. Hanh, the author, uses a building block teaching method to instruct readers on attaining inner peace through mindful living. The process begins with conscious breathing: a focused method of breathing that times each inhale and exhale with specific mantras used to focus the mind and body. Once focused, the reader is taught to deal with negative emotions through compassion, understanding, and love.