Reading as a Form of Self-Care (with book recommendations!)
Today’s blog is a guest post from Marisa over at Le Salon Literary Discussions. She runs a bookish business that offers reading recommendations, monthly online book discussions, and more!
Reading can be such a great way to relax. It can also be educational and help you learn new ideas and see yourself in new ways, which can be invigorating! No matter which you choose, both of these can support a sense of self-care.
I know it can be challenging to find time to read these days between work, life, TV, and scrolling. If you need a few tips on how to make some time to pick up your book or e-reader, I’ve got some advice that might help. My biggest tip is to make sure you are enjoying what you are reading—and that will look different for everyone. From romance to graphic novels, thrilling mysteries to classic novels. Here are some book recommendations to get you started.
Non-fiction books to support your body and mind:
- Furiously Happy: A Funny Book About Horrible Things by Jenny Lawson. Not only did this book make me laugh, it made me feel so much less alone about my own mental health struggles.
- When Food is Love and Feeding the Hungry Heart are both by Geneen Roth and were so eye opening in helping to connect ideas around emotional comfort and food.
- Careergasm by Sarah Vermunt is a book I recommend to anyone who is working in a job they don’t love, but aren’t sure what to do next.
- The Handbook for Bad Days by Eveline Helmink probably isn’t one you’ll read cover-to-cover, but pick up as you need and take from it what brings you comfort.
Books that feel like a hug:
- If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy (the author of Dumplin’) is a retelling of the classic Cinderella story for modern times: a reality dating show and a plus size main character.
- Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery. You might not have read this since you were young, but I highly recommend a reread (and if it’s your first time, you’re in for a treat!).
- My Life in France by Julia Child. Child brought French cooking to America! Read about her journey through France and her trailblazing life in the US.
- The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie by Alan Bradley. It can be incredibly healing to read about a young protagonist who embraces her quirks!
No matter what you choose to read, it is so important to remember that self-care isn’t selfish! And this is a hobby that doesn't have to cost too much: you can explore used book stores, get a library card, or even exchange books with friends.
Happy reading!
