Method 1

Read the book right through. Most people find that the best rate is 1-3 pages a day. Allow time to absorb the material and the perspectives. When you finish, make a decision whether this path is for you.

Method 2

Put together a study-practice group. Meet regularly, whether weekly or monthly. At each meeting, review your experience and understanding, bouncing them off the experience of other people in the group. As a study group, you can go page by page or chapter by chapter as you wish. As a practice group, practice each meditation for a minimum of two weeks.

There are study-practice groups already in various locations: details can be found here.

Method 3

Read the first two chapters. Then begin a meditation practice using the method described in Chapter 3. If possible, find a teacher who is willing to answer questions about your practice and help you through challenges. Work through each chapter using the time frames suggested on this site.

Method 4

Use the book as a curriculum of practice with your students.

Method 5

Use the book as a backup practice resource. If you have already have a practice, use any of the meditations to work through difficulties or deepen understanding. Then return to your main practice and see what has changed.

Method 6

Use the book as a reference text for clarification of meditation points or alternative perspectives on classical teachings.

Method 7

Read the Nasrudin stories at the beginning of each chapter. Everything is there.

Method 8

Just read the quotations. You'll get through the book much faster.