Book Review: Books that I Use in Practice
I often get asked what resources I use and how I find some of the ideas that can lead to insight and new coping skills. These are three books that I have found myself often reaching for myself and for clients 📘📚.
- Take a Breath: This book is a great resource if you are starting a mindfulness practice in your life. Its chock full of different techniques, how to use them, and what moments in life they can be helpful for. I found my copy at 5 Below for 💵 Price: $5.
- Self Love for Kids: This book is teaming with fun and self-esteem building activities for kiddos ages 5-11. The activities are built to increase sense of self, belonging, confidence, and more 🤩. I found my copy at 5 Below for 💵 Price: $5.
- The Body Keeps the Score: This book is different from the last two. It is far more information based and focused on exploring the connection between body, mind, and trauma. It can be a hard read and if a client is interested in it I often recommend going one chapter at a time with space to process in between. This book does include descriptions and discussions of others trauma including gun violence and sexual assault. It also includes the following paths to healing and discovery the patients made after. I found my copy on Amazon for 💵 Price: $10.86
Books have often been a huge resource for me personally. I love to read 💕. I read for knowledge, growth, pleasure, fun and healing. #safespace #lemon8challenge
*ALL ITEMS AND SKILLS MENTIONED ARE FROM MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCES AND ARE NOT CONSIDERED THERAPEUTIC RECOMMENDATIONS. IF YOU NEED OR DESIRE HELP PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN YOUR AREA*
I've often found myself turning to books not just for knowledge or entertainment, but for a deeper sense of comfort and understanding. It’s a bit like finding a 'new high' – not in the fleeting sense, but in the sustained, profound peace and clarity that comes from truly engaging with a good book. This concept of 'Reading for Healing' is something I deeply resonate with, and it goes beyond just reading self-help guides; it's about the entire experience. For me, the journey of healing often feels overwhelming, and books have been steadfast companions. They offer a safe space to explore complex emotions, learn new coping mechanisms, and gain perspectives I might not encounter in my daily life. When I'm feeling stressed or unsure, diving into a book allows me to step away from my own thoughts for a while, providing a much-needed mental break. Sometimes, it's the quiet contemplation offered by a mindfulness guide, like 'Take a Breath,' that helps me anchor myself. Other times, it's the profound insights into human resilience found in works like 'The Body Keeps the Score' that make me feel less alone in navigating life's challenges. One aspect of reading for healing that I particularly cherish is the validation it offers. Discovering that someone else has articulated feelings or experiences similar to my own can be incredibly powerful. It reduces feelings of isolation and reminds me that many paths to healing exist. This connection, even with an author I've never met, fosters a sense of community and shared humanity. It’s not always about finding direct answers, but often about finding empathy and understanding within the pages. To truly embrace 'Reading for Healing' and experience that 'new high,' I've developed a few personal practices. Firstly, I try to create a dedicated reading ritual – a cozy corner, a warm drink, and setting aside even just 15-20 minutes without distractions. This allows me to fully immerse myself. Secondly, I've found that journaling alongside my reading can deepen the experience. Jotting down thoughts, questions, or personal reflections sparked by the text helps integrate the insights into my own life. This is especially useful when grappling with heavier topics. And finally, remember that healing isn't always about intense, heavy reads. Sometimes, a beautiful piece of fiction or poetry can offer its own unique form of emotional release and gentle solace. Ultimately, this 'new high' isn't about escaping reality, but about gaining the tools and perspective to engage with it more mindfully and resiliently. Books empower me to understand myself better, cultivate self-compassion, and navigate the world with a calmer, more informed spirit. While books are incredible resources, remember they complement, not replace, professional support when you need it. But for a consistent source of peace, growth, and genuine well-being, turning the page might just be your next beautiful step.