The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk The book delves into the profound impact of psychological trauma on both the mind and body. It illuminates how trauma physically reshapes the brain and the body, contributing to a wide range of issues from anxiety and depression to various physical ailments. Drawing on decades of research and clinical experience, Van der Kolk presents innovative treatments designed to help individuals reclaim their lives by addressing trauma's deep-seated physiological and emotional effects.
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy This is a beautifully illustrated—hand-drawn—story about four characters, their journey, and their friendships. It includes heartwarming messages, important life lessons, and a touch of humour.
The Compassionate Mind by Paul Gilbert Written by Paul Gilbert, a well-known clinical psychologist and the founder of Compassion-Focused Therapy, this book explores the importance of compassion in our lives. Gilbert explains how to cultivate compassion to foster better well-being, and also delves into the social and evolutionary foundations of the brain.
Quiet by Susan Cain In this non-fiction book, the author makes the case that our society often doesn't appreciate introverted people and their valuable skills enough. It explores how Western culture views introversion, using scientific definitions and drawing on research from fields like neurobiology and psychology.
It Didn't Start With You by Mark Wolynn This book explores how family traumas—those inherited from our parents, grandparents, and previous generations—can continue to influence our present-day lives and significantly impact our mental well-being. This can manifest as issues such as unexplained anxiety or depression.
Transactional Analysis (article) Transactional Analysis (TA) is a psychotherapeutic approach that analyses social interactions to understand and improve human relationships.
Gestalt (article) Gestalt therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on the present moment and the individual's experience as it unfolds. It emphasizes personal responsibility, self-awareness, and the integration of mind, body, and emotions to achieve wholeness.
Person-centred therapy (article) Person-centred counselling is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on the client's experience of themselves. It operates on the belief that individuals have an innate capacity for growth, which is facilitated by a therapeutic relationship built on empathy, unconditional positive regard, and congruence.
Attached by Amir Levine & Rachel Heller The book explores the science of adult attachment and its profound impact on romantic relationships. It explains three main attachment styles—anxious, avoidant, and secure—and helps readers understand their own style, their partner's, and how these dynamics play out. This book offers valuable insights and tools for building healthier, more fulfilling connections.
Thinking on my feet by Kate Humble In Thinking on My Feet, Kate Humble reflects on her personal experiences of walking in nature and its profound impact on her well-being. This book is a wonderful exploration of how movement, observation, and solitude can help clear the mind, foster creativity, and deepen our connection to the world around us.
Toxic Childhood Stress by Nadine Burke Harris The book offers vital insights into the science of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their profound, long-term impact on our health. As a pediatrician, Dr. Burke Harris explains how chronic stress from childhood trauma can fundamentally alter our biology, increasing the risk of various diseases in adulthood. The book ultimately advocates for better understanding, prevention, and treatment of the health effects stemming from childhood adversity.
Surrounded by idiots by Thomas Erikson The book categorizes people into four main personality types: Red (Dominance), Yellow (Influence), Green (Steadiness), and Blue (Conscientiousness). Erikson uses these colours to illustrate why people behave the way they do, how they communicate, and what motivates them. It helps you not only understand your own communication style but, more importantly, provides invaluable tools to better understand and interact with others. You'll learn to identify different personality types and adapt your approach, leading to smoother conversations, fewer misunderstandings, and more effective collaboration.
Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman Eleanor Oliphant is completely fine is a poignant and sharply observed novel about loneliness, trauma, and the quiet bravery of finding your way back to connection. Gail Honeyman's heartwarming and often humorous debut introduces a uniquely lonely woman who’s carefully constructed world is about to be beautifully unravelled by unexpected connections.