Our wellness library

When it comes to self-development and wellness, there are so many ways we can learn more and educate ourselves. One of our favourite ways to do this is reading.

There are hundreds of ‘self-help’, ‘self-development’ and ‘wellness’ books out there – so, it can be hard to know where to start! We asked the Therapy Directory team what their favourite books are. Here’s what they had to say:

Jo Ferguson (Membership Manager)

59 seconds: think a little, change a lot by Richard Wiseman

“This is a really straightforward, easy read that encourages you to question unhelpful thoughts and habits and focus on actions/ways of thinking that automatically make you feel more positive and happy. It’s incredible how much one small, seemingly arbitrary action can affect how you feel, or how thinking of three things that you’re grateful for (no matter how small!) can completely turn your mood around!”

Becky Wright (Marketing Communications Executive)

Strong by Zanna Van Dijk

“I love Strong by fitness blogger, Zanna van Dijk. I think it’s quite different to the type of book you’d normally expect from a person in the fitness industry. It’s not a week by week planner of ‘how to get a bikini body’,  or a guide for ‘how to look your best’. It’s about living in a way that makes you feel good: “achieving a fit, healthy and balanced body”.

It’s split into three sections: Move, Nourish and Thrive. I love this combination, as I think it reinforces the message that self-development means developing as a ‘whole’ person – in mind, body and soul. She guides you through a variety of exercises, as well as some delicious and healthy recipes – all with the premise that everything is optional.

It’s not preachy and instructive, but guiding and supportive. She doesn’t tell you what to do, or what not to do, but invites you to try new things so that you can figure out what works best for you. She advocates living life to the full, enjoying keeping fit and eating healthily – but the underlying message is that it is part of your life, not your whole life. I really connect with her balanced approach to life. Would definitely recommend!”

Kat Nicholls (Marketing Communications Executive)

Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking – Susan Cain

“This book helped me truly understand what it means to be an introvert and that it can be a huge asset. Susan has so much insight on the subject and speaks to introverts and extroverts alike, tackling subjects like work, relationships and how to harness your power as an introvert.

If you’ve always been called ‘quiet’ or ‘shy’, I would strongly recommend reading – it’ll change the way you see yourself and what you’re capable of.”

Matt Holman (Marketing Manager)

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change – Stephen R Covey

Considered ‘revolutionary’, this book helps people solve both personal and professional problems. The holistic, integrative approach has touched millions (over 25 million copies have been sold since it was published). Matt says:

“I remember feeling very positive and engaged after reading!”

Further reading

Here are some further recommendations from Emma White, Co-Founder of Therapy Directory:

• Loving What Is by Byron Katie
• The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer
• The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma
• The Chimp Paradox by Steve Peters
• Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor Frankl
• Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
• You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay

We want to know – what are your favourite wellness/self-development books? Let us know on Facebook!