Reading and writing save my life on a daily basis, and I can’t help but share some of my favorites with you. These writers, researchers, and creatives all write from the heart and discover things I simply refuse to live without. I recommend them because these folks are honest in their works, act with integrity, and call me to a higher way of living.
Interested in working together? Let’s talk! Contact me at my email address which is jenn@theholyabsurd.com or call or text me at my practice number which is (817) 642 – 7305. Let’s help you build a life worth living and loving!
My Favorite Books
Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott
A celebrated spiritual classic on everything from finding God in addiction recovery, the wonders and pitfalls of single motherhood, and celebrating imperfect communities of love.
Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself
Dr. Kristin Neff’s compelling first book details exactly how being kind to ourselves can help change the world, one heart at a time.
Mindsight: The New Science of Personal Transformation by Dr Dan Siegal
Written by neuroscience psychiatrist and counselor, Dr. Siegal’s book is a fabulous introduction to interpersonal neurobiology, which is all the power of mindsight to move us towards safety and connection in all most important relationships.
Try Softer by Aundi Kolber
Aundi Kolber’s first book is a powerful combination of the latest insights from neuroscience and ancient contemplative wisdom written by a compassionate trauma-informed therapist. A must read for anyone who’s ever dealt with trauma.
The Gifts of Imperfection by Dr. Brene Brown
This book is a fabulous introduction to Brown’s shame resilience work, and her ten guideposts are practical steps for creating a fully embodied and meaningful life with the one you have now.
The Divine Dance by Richard Rohr
An excellent book on the science and theology of the divine presence in our lives. Read this and watch your loneliness vanish as you realize we are more loved than we know!
Wintering: The Power of Rest and Retreat in Difficult Times by Katherine May
May’s short but uplifting book is part memoir, literature review, and science exploration of how winter can nurture and empower us.
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
This amazing book is considered the Bible of trauma, and for good reason: Bessel writes compassionately about trauma from the lens of a scientist with the heart of poet.
The Road Back to You: an Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery by Suzanne Stables and Ian Cron
One of the best introductory books on the Enneagram written by two fabulous spiritual directors and therapists.
The Long Night: Readings and Stories to Help You through Depression by Jessica Kantrovitz
Jessica is a writer who knows exactly what it’s like to survive the hell of depression. Her words will meet you where you’re at with well-researched tips and a big dose of kindness.
Peace is Every Step by Thich Nhat Hanh
Essential reading for anyone interested in how practicing mindfulness can help you generate peace on a daily basis.
My Favorite Blogs
Dr. Brene Brown has changed millions of lives with her groundbreaking work on vulnerability and shame resilience. Read The Gifts of Imperfection first as that’s a great introduction to Brown’s work and then dive into the rest of her books.
Dr. Kristin Neff’s seminal work on the benefits of a self-compassion practice will help ease worries and cultivate kindness towards yourself. A clinical psychologist, Neff’s guided meditations are pure gold. Consider using them before bed if you struggle with insomnia.
Center for Action and Contemplation
Richard Rohr is a Catholic priest and mystic in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the Center for Action and Contemplation. His writings center on experiencing the love of God in the midst of suffering and radical action to alleviate suffering, especially to the socially marginalized. Admired by the religious and non-religious, Rohr’s work is shaping spiritual thought and action to create a more just and loving world.
Dr. Marisa Franco is a clinical psychologist who studies the power and importance of friendship. What makes her work relevant is studying adult platonic friendship and how these relationships enrich our lives. Her monthly newsletter offers important tips on exploring how to make our friends a priority.
Rick Hanson is a clinical psychologist and author from North California who has taught extensively on increasing your inner strengths and cultivating everyday happiness. He and his son Forest co-host a podcast called Being Well which offers a treasure trove of mindfulness-based psychological approaches to healing from depression, anxiety, trauma, and so much more.
Mental Health Resources
National Alliance on Mental Illness
Anxiety and Depression Association of America
(Photo by Danielle MacInnes on Unsplash