The journey into self care is one everyone should take. After years of putting others before yourself, the idea of self-care can be negatively portrayed as selfishness or a poor substitute to real mental health services, but making a conscious decision to improve your mentality is one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself – taking time to care for yourself can help you care for others.

Especially with the busy work schedules and unbreakable routines of the modern world, mindfulness and conscious reflection can be a difficult thing to begin, which is why we’ve come up with a reading list to help you start your journey into putting yourself first. Whether a 10 minute reflection a day, or a change to your whole perspective, the following journals and books will help you unlock a higher level of happiness.

The Little Book Of Self Care – Mel Noakes

Self-care coach Mel Noakes divides self care into three categories: ‘mind’, ‘body’ and ‘life’, in her 200 page book, making it a convenient, easy and to-the-point read. With tips, thought provoking quotes and easy-to-follow guidance on improving your mental and physical health, based on Noakes own experiences and her NLP (Neuro-linguistic programming) practices, this is the perfect book to dip in and out of, to trial different suggestions and to create your perfect self-care routine. Plus it can fit in your handbag.

Self Care For The Real World – Nadia Narain and Katia Narain Phillips

This book is for those afraid of the exclusivity of self care, often promoted by celebrities and influencers, who have the money and time. The book teaches about wellness and self-love without patronising, gate-keeping or overcomplicating, strongly encouraging the idea of self care no matter the circumstances.

How To Be Happy (Or At Least Less Sad) – Lee Crutchley

One of the most popular ways to reflect at the moment is through journaling. How To Be Happy (Or At Least Less Sad) is a creative workbook aimed to help you find happiness in the little things, providing a product of distraction, reflection and new perspectives. Aimed especially at those who struggle with depression or anxiety, checklists, meditative activities and bold quotes are Crutchley’s tactical way to start self-reflection.

Resilient – Rick Hanson Ph.D

From New York Times bestselling author and psychologist Dr Rick Hanson, Resilient mixes psychology, neuroscience and mindfulness to teach us how to gain composure and confidence in the face of adversity. The practical guide provides the reader with personal stories of resilience, conclusive suggestions and bona fide advice on solving conflicts with yourself and others.

The Headspace Guide to Mindfulness & Meditation – Andy Puddicombe

The Headspace Guide to Mindfulness & Meditation is the perfect introduction to self care and mindfulness, especially for those with busy schedules. The book’s mission is to provide 10 minutes of escape from the hustle and bustle of each day and any worries about the future or past. Convenient and easily accessible, Puddicombe has filled this book with daily exercises that practice finding calm, fulfillment and new ways to approach stress and fatigue. Whether you’re new to meditation or not, this book is a great way to get unstuck from the rut of modern living.

Ikigai – Héctor García and Francesc Miralles

The age-old Japanese concept of having happiness and purpose in life (Ikigai) is perfectly captured in this book, as it introduces the mindfulness methods used in Japan to make everyday meaningful, educating the reader on the ten rules of Ikigai and how the people who follow them live such long and full lives. Focussing on Okinawa – the Japanese island home to the world’s most Centenarians – the authors conducted interviews with residents to find the reasons for ikigai’s wonderful effects.

I Am Here Now – The Mindfulness Project

I Am Here Now is another brilliant journal and mindfulness guide. A way to destress and distract, The Mindfulness Project has curated the best collection of activities to focus on the here and now, to break habits and to cultivate a new awareness of your feelings. Drawing, colouring, writing and observing are just some of the simple methods of meditation this book provides.

Ignite Your Light – Jolene Hart

This book is the ultimate self care guide: recipes, skin care rituals, yoga suggestions and quizzes are featured in the book, along with educational profiles and guidance on relationships, resilience and releasing negative energy. Jolene Hart focuses on creating positive energy and a better perspective of the world.

You Are A Badass Everyday – Jen Sincero

This pocket-sized book is a motivational manifesto for personal transformation. New York Times’ bestselling author Jen Sincero empowers striving towards success through easy and accessible messages about surrounding yourself with positivity and staying focused. At less than 250 pages, it’s a perfect reiteration of her two previous books for people with busy schedules, whilst continuing her unapologetic, badass ideas to make new and improved points of motivation.

Gmorning, Gnight!: Little Pep Talks for Me & You – Lin-Manuel Miranda

Hamilton: The Musical creator Lin-Manuel Miranda has created a little book of poetry that sparks self love and appreciation by the page. With cute drawings and thought provoking mini pep talks, it’s a great way to start your day or end it as it reminds you to appreciate things and recognise how important you are. Self care in the simplest form.

Words by Daisy Greetham

Graphics by Zhao

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