Reading for Wellbeing
Reflections on World Mental Health Day: Books for wellbeing
As we come up too World Mental Health Day, on the 10th of October it is an opportune moment to reflect on the importance of mental wellbeing and the various ways we can nurture it. Reading has a profound capacity to explore our inner worlds, offering insights, comfort, and guidance. Today, I’d like to share thoughts on four exceptional books that resonate with the themes of mental health and emotional resilience: The Half Bird by Susan Smillie, Just One Thing by Dr Michael Mosley, The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, and The Creative Act by Rick Rubin.
The Half Bird by Susan Smillie
Susan Smillie’s The Half Bird is a hauntingly beautiful exploration of grief and identity. The protagonist’s journey reflects the struggle of reconciling loss while seeking purpose and understanding in a fractured world. Smillie’s poetic prose delves into the complexities of mental health, illustrating how grief can intertwine with our daily lives and influence our perceptions. On World Mental Health Day, this book serves as a reminder that it’s okay to feel lost and that healing is often a nonlinear process. Smillie encourages us to confront our emotions, embracing both the pain and the beauty of our experiences
Just One Thing by Dr Michael Mosley
In Just One Thing, Dr Michael Mosley provides readers with practical advice to enhance their mental wellbeing through small, manageable changes. Each chapter presents a simple action, ranging from mindfulness practices to physical activities, that can significantly improve our mental state. The premise is reassuring: we don’t need to overhaul our lives to achieve better mental health. This book is a brilliant resource for anyone looking to cultivate a more positive mindset, especially on a day dedicated to mental health awareness. As we reflect on our wellbeing, the take-home message is clear: even the smallest steps can lead to profound changes.
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
The Little Prince is a timeless classic that transcends age and culture. Through the eyes of a young prince, readers are reminded of the importance of imagination, connection, and seeing the world through a lens of wonder. This tale beautifully illustrates how the complexities of adulthood can cloud our understanding of joy and friendship. The story’s poignant lessons encourage us to reconnect with our inner child, fostering curiosity and emotional openness. The Little Prince’s quest for meaning resonates deeply with our own journeys, reminding us that love and relationships are at the heart of our mental wellbeing.
The Creative Act by Rick Rubin
Rick Rubin’s The Creative Act explores the transformative power of creativity in our lives. Rubin, renowned music producer and creative visionary, discusses how engaging in artistic pursuits can serve as a powerful tool for mental health. Whether through music, art, or writing, creativity allows us to express ourselves, process emotions, and find solace in times of distress. On this day of mental health awareness, Rubin’s insights encourage us to harness our creative energies as a form of therapy. It’s a gentle nudge to pick up that paintbrush, write that poem, or play that instrument, as these acts can provide profound healing and self-discovery.
Let’s continue the conversation about mental health, breaking down stigma and encouraging openness, not just today, but every day.
