If you’ve been around for awhile you know that I love a good morning routine. I share parts of it on stories (almost) daily and even shared a rundown of my morning routine earlier this summer. And while each step really builds on the rest, I think my favorite part of that routine (and my day tbh) is reading. Especially during this chaotic year and very different holiday season, my morning reads have kept me calm, grounded and feel less stress.
I find words to be incredibly comforting, so starting my days with the wisdom of others is a grounding, encouraging and strengthing practice that truly love. Almost every morning, I pick a book (or several) to read, sometimes chapters, sometimes passages and sometimes quotes. What I read and how long I read for depends on my emotional and mental needs that day. Some days that’s a mood booster, other days it’s a kick in the pants. Either way, I usually start off with my daily devotional and then reach for whatever feels right. With poetry or quote books, I open to a random page and just read whatever I see first.
Lately I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the books I’m reading – what they are and what I like about them, and of course requests for links! I shared a little bit about my early quarantine faves here, but figured I’d share everything in one post so you can access it with ease.
I know this year has been tough. I know this season is even tougher. My hope is that in sharing some of the books and practices that bring me comfort, I can pass that along to you, too!
Journey to the Heart: Daily Meditations on the Path to Freeing Your Soul by Melody Beattie
My daily devotional / meditational! I’ve had this for almost 4 years and every year it just gets better and better. There is a passage for every day, each one bringing you along on the author’s journey towards self love and renewal and encouraging you to do the same. I tend to underline things that speak to me at the time, and it’s been really cool to see what resonates with me year after year – or how that changes. Beattie’s writing is encouraging without being preachy and spiritual but not overtly religious.
The Boy The Mole The Fox and The Horse by Charlie Mackesy
My mom gave me this earlier this year (she talks about it in this post – one of my favorites and most read posts to date) so it holds a special place in my heart. I love how it is so simple, yet so meaningful. My mom described it best when she said: The book is priceless and precious. It is not overly wordy or complicated. It can be read and enjoyed by young and old. It teaches lessons simply that all can understand and think about! It was a birthday gift to me and I have read it often. I think it is so meaningful and important a message that I have given it to all of my children. A wonderful read for this trying time and makes a beautiful gift, too.
All Along You Were Blooming: Thoughts for Boundless Living by Morgan Harper Nichols
My dear friend Claire gifted me this book of poems by our favorite writer and creator, Morgan Harper Nichols. If you haven’t read any of her works, you absolutely must. Morgan has a knack for writing in a way that makes me feel like she is speaking straight to my heart. Her words make me feel seen. And the amazing thing is that I know so many people – all types of people – feel the same way. I often read this in conjunction with her app, Storyteller, an amazing daily devotional with quotes, passages, journal prompts and art.
It’s Okay To Feel Things Deeply by Carissa Potter
Elsa gifted me this beautiful book with heartfelt passages, illustration and words of encouragement. Potter wrote it as a resource to help women through trying times of anxiety and depression, and it contains everything from practical guidance to meaningful messages and moments of humor. The drawings are colorful and whimsical and the words are helpful and promote, above all else, self love.
Heal Your Body by Louise Hay
This is a great one for anyone who is going through something physical and wants to have a better understanding of the psychological blocks and mental beliefs that may be at the root of it. Louise Hay is one of the pioneers in the world of positive affirmations, and while many may believe her work is kinda of “out there”, I found her insight to be fascinating and mentally helpful when applied.
The Secret by Rhonda Byrne
Okay, I am not a worshipper of this book – I haven’t even finished it – but cult following aside I do think it’s an interesting concept. The Secret is essentially The Law of Attraction, and the text focuses on how to use positive thinking and manfestation to your advantage. It’s a little cheesy and at some points it feels a little outdated and close minded (like 90% of the quotes are from old white dudes), but if you are in the mental space for the concept, I think the practices can be encouraging and helpful. A more refined version of this Course in Miracles-esque text would be various works by Gabby Bernstein, but I don’t really jive with her at this time in my life. I’m curious by nature and willing to learn more, so I’m keeping the door open in that regard!
Little Ways to Keep Calm and Carry On: Twenty Lessons for Managing Worry, Anxiety and Fear by Mark A. Reinecke, Ph.D.
Oh man, anyone who deals with anxiety or anxious feelings will love this book. I have dealt with siginifcant anxiety issues in my life and am a worrier through and through, and this small but mighty book is like having a little mini therapist in your pocket (it’s based on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT). Each chapter contains a simple lesson with journal prompts, techniques and actionable steps you can take to reduce anxiety and the impact of stressful moments.
After The Rain: Gentle Reminders for Healing, Courage and Self-Love by Alex Elle
My current go-to! Alex Elle is one of my absolute favorite instagram follows. She is wise beyond her years and hits me in the heart with every single insight. This book is part memoir, part guide. In telling her own story from self-doubt to self-love, Elle encourages the reader to do the same through journal prompts, quotes and revealing passages on everything from loss, fear, bravery, healing, love, acceptance and more. It’s truly a work of art that holds your hand through an emotional journey, as long as you’re willing to do the work too.
You Are a Badass Every Day: How to Keep Your Motivation Strong, Your Vibe High, and Your Quest for Transformation Unstoppable By Jen Sincero
Raise your hand if you have trouble getting or staying motivated these days! *raises hand* I hear ya! My mom gave me this awhile ago and I don’t think I really appreciated it until 2020 came along and I’ve reached for anything and everything to help me through my varying ruts and funks. This book is a great accountability buddy with prompts, quotes and passages to lift up and get you out of your own way!
Rituals for Every Day by Nadia Narain and Katie Narain Phillips
This is such a good read if you’re in a rut and need ideas for simple yet thoughtful ways to ground and nurture your mind, body and soul. The ideas are small but mighty – some you may have thought about and others you may not have! Great for anyone who is new to self kindness and care and those who want to change up their routine in a mangageable way.
Photography by Kelly F. Peterson
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