In honor of World Book Day later this week, I thought I would share some of my favorite self-care (or closely related) book recommendations! These are my regular go-to books and the ones I am regularly recommending to others. Let me know if you read or have read any of them. I would love to know what you think. And be sure to comment and let me know your favorites! I am always looking to add more books to my collection.
The Art of Extreme Self-Care by Cheryl Richardson
- Cheryl is a local author from Newburyport, Massachusetts. This book is fantastic. My mom credits this book with changing her life. Easy read with actionable steps to prioritize your needs.
Intuitive Eating by Evelyn Tribole & Elyse Resch
- This book changed my life in terms of learning to heal from my eating disorder. If you struggle with weight and need help letting go of the diet mentality – this book is for you! There is a workbook, journal, and deck that are fabulous also.
Health at Every Size by Lindo Bacon
- Please note that Lindo Bacon’s work in this arena has provided a very one-sided perspective. They are not the creator of the Health of Every Size (HAES) movement, and their interpretation is not inclusive. If you read this book, please consider the privilege behind it and also read about the creators of the HAES movement from The Association of Size Diversity & Health (ASDAH). You can also learn more about the current circumstances regarding Lindo and the harm they have caused this community.
- With all this in mind, this book helped me understand my healing several years ago and the societal pressure behind my eating disorders. You may find value in this as well.
- If this is a topic you are interested in: I suggest adding a couple of other titles to your list, such as Fat Activism: A Radical Social Movement and The Body Is Not an Apology, Second Edition: The Power of Radical Self-Love, and workbook. I have not read these yet, but they are on my list too! However, they come highly recommended by others in the activism community.
- If you are interested in learning more about trauma, this book is for you. Warning – this is not a light beach read.
- Additionally, check out My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies – this one has been recommended to me many times, but I have not gotten around to reading it yet. But, again, it is on my list.
Anything by Deepak Chopra, Wayne Dyer, or Louise Hay is fabulous.
For Kids
- If you are interested in some books for kids, check out any of Dr. Christopher Willard’s books. They are a lot of fun. Also, keep an eye out, Dr. Willard was a recent guest on the Dr. MC podcast, and the episode will release next month.
Check-in with Dr. MC every morning on Instagram and Facebook Stories. Previous reminders are stored in the highlights on Instagram too @drmcselfcare.
Be sure to like, subscribe and love me across all my social media platforms for the most up-to-date information on self-care! There are now 21 episodes of the podcast available.
Best.
Dr. MC