Recommended Reading
Curated books, studies, and tools to support your journey of healing, self-discovery, and personal transformation
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma
by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D
This book explains how trauma is stored in the body and how it manifests as physical and emotional distress; it’s an essential read for understanding the connection between mental health and physical well-being, offering hope and tools for healing.
Good for: anyone processing trauma or seeking deeper self-awareness.
The Courage to Be Disliked: The Japanese Phenomenon That Shows You How to Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness
by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga
This exploration of Adlerian psychology helps readers break free from the constraints of personal limitations that they may not even realize they have.
Good for: anyone looking to let go of past resentments, build a life rooted in self-respect and fulfillment, and is especially helpful for those working on setting boundaries.
Note: this is great as an audiobook, as the chapters are very short and “easy” reads/listens.
When the Body Says No: Exploring the Stress-Disease Connection
by Gabor Maté, M.D.
Dr. Maté dives into the science behind how chronic stress and emotional suppression contribute to physical illness, and emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and boundary-setting in healing.
Good for: anyone managing chronic pain or stress-related conditions, and anyone working on setting better boundaries.
Radical Acceptance: Embracing Your Life With the Heart of a Buddha
by Tara Brach, Ph.D.
This book blends mindfulness and compassion to help readers move past self-judgment and find peace in the present moment. It offers practical tools to live more fully in the “true” self.
Good for: anyone struggling with perfectionism, self-criticism, or anxiety, and anyone coping with the loss of a relationship.
This book explores the mechanism of surrender and how letting go of resistance can lead to emotional and spiritual freedom. Dr. Hawkins provides readers with practical, relatable examples of overcoming negative emotions and fostering inner peace in a spiritual tone.
Good for: anyone navigating emotional healing, personal growth, or seeking a deeper understanding of what it really means to let go.
Letting Go: The Pathway of Surrender
by David R. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D.
A fictional masterpiece, this story follows the journey of Santiago, a shepherd boy who dreams of discovering a treasure near the Egyptian pyramids. This allegorical story covers themes of purpose, destiny, and the pursuit of personal legends, offering timeless lessons wrapped in a compelling narrative. It’s an inspiring, quick read that speaks to the heart and soul.
Good for: anyone looking for an easy, quick read that’s still spiritually enlightening and reflective.
The Alchemist
by Paulo Coelho
A a collection of short, thought-provoking pieces inspired by Coelho’s own reflections and encounters. Each 1–2-page excerpt offers a nugget of wisdom to start or end the day with meaning and introspection. These concise reflections are perfect for readers looking for brief yet impactful insights to incorporate into their daily routine – and great if you are already familiar with Coehlo’s works.
Good for: anyone who enjoys inspirational and spiritual readings in small, digestible formats. Ideal for morning or evening reflection to set or close the day with purpose.
Maktub: An Inspirational Companion to the Alchemist
by Paulo Coelho
The Way Out: A Revolutionary, Scientifically Proven Approach to Healing Chronic Pain
by Alan Gordon and Alon Ziv
This book introduces readers to Pain Reprocessing Therapy, which educates about the research showing that most chronic pain; while real pain, is not coming from the body but actually from mistaken signals in the pain center of the brain. It is an easy, fairly short read with no/limited medical jargon, and goes beyond talking about the research and case studies to train the reader to re-wire the brain and thus greatly decrease, if not eliminate chronic pain.
Good (if not a must) for: anyone who suffers from chronic pain or who has a loved one with chronic pain.
This daily devotional provides 365 passages, each offering inspiration, a reflection, and a practical activity or check-in. The entries are dated, making it easy to integrate into a daily routine and create a habit of mindful reflection.
Good for: anyone looking to kickstart a daily practice of reflection and mindfulness. This is especially helpful for those who appreciate structured guidance in fostering awareness and gratitude since it’s practical and literally spelled out day-to-day.
The Book of Awakening: Having the Life You Want by Being Present to the Life You Have
by Mark Nepo
Pema Chödrön shares teachings from Buddhist philosophy to help readers embrace uncertainty and find strength in vulnerability, no matter the situation. With compassionate guidance, she reveals how pain and difficulty can become pathways to growth, resilience, and inner peace.
Good for: anyone going through a tough time, facing a major (or minor) life change, or seeking to transform fear and discomfort into opportunities for healing and self-discovery.