4 Books That Have Helped Me Find Healing
Hi Everyone!
Ok so- I’ve gone back and forth with whether or not to launch Thrive by Cayla, and after sitting with it for awhile it’s something I’m going to try. I do feel like a lot of people are suffering in silence and I have definitely been there so I’m going to speak to anyone who will listen
To start things off, I wanted to share a list of books that have helped me in general on my journey towards healing.
1) You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero- I wasn’t sure about this initially, I made a quick judgement call, but upon reading the book I found it insightful, relatable, funny and motivating. It feels like you’re sitting down and having a coffee with a friend. Amongst the valuable advice in this book it reiterated for me that I am in charge of my life, and also not to be too hard on myself. I had been self loathing for a long time when I read this, and this helped shift perspective for me.
2) Overcoming Trauma Through Yoga by David Emerson- I was at the lowest point in my life when I read this book. I took it out from the library and read it cover to cover, then vowed I would one day work with Dave in some capacity (I ended up training with him several years later). I had recently fallen through the cracks in the medical system and felt like there was no hope until one evening I remembered that I was a yoga teacher- there had to be some way I could navigate my own trauma via using movement as an adjunct. I figured I had to learn how to help myself using what I knew, while waiting for greater assistance, in whatever way that came. Also as a note here, Dave really does walk the walk, he lives the words he writes and I can’t say enough good things about the Centre for Trauma and Embodiment and the work they do there.
3) The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk- This is like a trauma tell-all- no stone is left unturned. This has been, to date, the most affirming book I have read on trauma- the scientific explanations of what happen in the body physiologically validate me and continue to remind me of how trauma effects people in ways that aren’t visible- like your ability to form relationships, self esteem, etc.
4) Milk and Honey by Rupi Kaur- While this isn’t a trauma book per se, at the time it was released there was really no mainstream poetry that spoke in a way that was raw and real (and borderline shocking at points). I have never been someone who likes journalling but always knew that I had words I needed to get out of my body- so this book re-inspired me to pick up my pen and continue creative writing. Her honesty also reminded me that even when I feel alone, I am not alone- everyone is working through something. Her bravery in sharing her words also reminded me of my own bravery.
That is it for now- but I will continue sharing books as I continue reading
Would love to hear from you and until then, sending you lots of love!!!
xx Cayla
@ThrivebyCayla
@MoveToHealProject