Developing a meditation/reading/journaling practice over the last few years has been life changing. Here are just a few of the works I have been able to explore during this time.
Each of these books touched me in one way or another. I hope you can get as much enjoyment our of reading them and connecting with yourself as I have. I included a brief description, a meaningful quote and a link to purchase for each book. HAPPY READING!
On Being Human: A Memoir of Waking Up, Living Real, and Listening Hard
By Jennifer Pastiloff
“The only time I felt that surge of being awake was when I was paying attention to other people and letting them affect me. Essentially, when I was doing love was the only time I felt worthy. I hadn't coined the term yet, but this was when I understood the idea of being fall-in-lovable. To not only let someone in to see you, but to see them back, fully. ”
I guess I can credit this book for this website and my journey into teaching mindfulness, yoga and speaking my truth. This is a powerful, real read that leaves you feeling energized and ready to tackle your dreams.
The Book of Joy
By His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Archbishop Desmond Tutu with Douglas Abrams
“You are made for perfection, but you are not yet perfect. You are a masterpiece in the making. ”
" The need for connection with others is such a fundamental part of who we are as human beings."
Two fundamentally different human beings with contrasting religious beliefs reminding each other and everyone who reads this that we are all simply human beings. We are all connected and can be accepting of each other as humans despite our differences. A powerful read that reminds us that life it truly about finding joy.
The Four Agreements
By Don Miguel Ruiz
“The problem with most people is that they lost control of their emotions. It is the emotions that control the behavior of the human, not the human who controls the emotions. When we lost control we say things that we don't want to do. That is why it is so important to be impeccable with our word and to become a spiritual warrior. We must learn to control the emotions so we have enough personal power to change our fear-based agreements, escape from hell, and create our own personal heaven.”
A road map, if you will, on how to live a life that is fulfilling. Don Miguel Ruiz details the four agreements: Be impeccable with your word, Don't take anything personally, Don't make assumptions, and Always do your best and describes how adhering to these agreements allows you to experience true happiness.
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Yoga
By Deepak Chopra and David Simon
“In your daily life, practice accepting people as they are and circumstances as they occur, understanding that every moment in your life is the consequence of every prior choice you've made. Rather than resisting who or what is currently in your life, practice acceptance of what is present and reinforce your commitment to make more conscious choices from this moment on.”
If you are looking for a wonderful introduction into yoga and mediation, look no further. This book is divided into three sections: The Philosophy of Yoga, Meditation and Breathing, and Yoga Practice. I especially enjoyed the philosophy section, I am the type of person that enjoys understanding the "why" and this was a wonderful description on the why of yoga.
Essential Chakra Mediation
By April Pfender
“Meditation hold wonderful promises of self-realization, peace ,and clarity, but it doesn't necessarily come easy, especially at first. It might take days, weeks, or even months to really feel any progress. If you find yourself returning to negative thought patterns, gently remind yourself to choose only positive thoughts that align with your highest vibration. Repeating small, potent, self-affirming mantras can get you back on track in no time.”
This book has truly been "essential" for me. I have referred back to it almost daily as I navigate my own learning and chakra balancing. Each chakra is described in detail and there are three suggested meditations for each one. I also have benefited from the information on essential oils, crystals and mudras. I highly recommend this book as a mindfulness library staple.
If you have any others you would like to share or if you have already read some of these I would love to hear from you about your thoughts and suggestions.