Life, Beauty & Authenticity

Tiny Beautiful Things (Cheryl Strayed, 2012): Cheryl Strayed is an American author and podcast host. She was a regular columnist for the Rumpus literary magazine, where she responded to people's questions regarding different areas of life. This book is a collection of those essays. Although I am not a fan of advice columns in general, Cheryl Strayed is just a breath of fresh air. Funny, empathetic, non-judgemental, and extremely wise, she conveys acceptance, hope and guidance with her writing, without ever being superficial or paternalistic. A book full of life lessons, in which no topic is avoided, no matter how painful or uncomfortable.

Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail (Cheryl Strayed, 2012): A memoir focusing on the hike of a lifetime. In 1995, Cheryl Strayed hiked more than 1700 Km on Pacific Crest Trail in a journey of self-reflection and self-discover. As the author physically walks the trail, she is also forced to move through unprocessed grief and pain, eventually rescuing lost parts of herself and finding healing. A touching story displaying the resilience and strength of the human soul.

Daring Greatly (Brené Brown, 2012): Brené Brown, Ph.D., is an American research professor at the University of Houston, Graduate College of Social Work. Over the last 20 years, her work has been focused on courage, vulnerability, shame. This book demystifies the idea that being vulnerable makes you weak, and details why vulnerability is a key ingredient for living a full and authentic life. An intellectually and emotionally challenging book, backed up by good qualitative research.

The Anatomy of a Calling (Lissa Rankin, 2015): Lissa Rankin, MD, is an American physician, author, artist, and the the founder Whole Health Medicine Institute in the United States. As a young obstetrics and gynaecology specialist, Lissa struggled to belong to a medical system with little space for vulnerability and connection. When she experiences a series of life challenges, she is led in a quest to find a new medical model focused on promoting health and wellbeing, rather than just eliminating disease. A remarkable book mirroring some of my experiences both as a medical doctor, and a patient.

Braving the Wilderness (Brené Brown, 2017): This book presents the author's work on true belonging. As human beings, we are constantly seeking connection and a sense of belonging. Rather than changing ourselves to fit in the crowd, this book discusses how true belonging results from having the courage to be ourselves, even when it is uncomfortable and challenging.

Dare to Lead (Brené Brown, 2018): A book about leadership that revisits the concepts of vulnerability, shame, courage, and true belonging. It deconstructs common views about leadership, and presents key characteristics of good leaders, according with current research. Another deeply challenging book from Dr. Brené Brown.

Love Warrior (Glennon Doyle, 2016): Glennon Doyle is an American author, philanthropist and social activist. She is also a highly sensitive person, who spent her childhood and early adulthood trying to change herself to match society's expectations. As she discovers that her husband has been unfaithful throughout their marriage, she embarks on a journey of self-inquiry, and self-discovery that would change her life forever. A book that made me reflect on gender roles and question my limiting beliefs on this subject, inspiring me to live my womanhood more freely.

Over the Top: A Raw Journey to Self-Love (Jonathan Van Ness, 2019): The memoir of Jonathan Van Ness, an American hairdresser, activist, and host of the Netflix show Queer Eye. What I love about this book, and mostly about Jonathan himself, is how he was always so unique and genuine, even in the face of enormous adversity. Growing up gay in a conservative environment, Jonathan embraced his natural femininity, flamboyance, and sexuality from early on. Despite suffering continuous bulling and eventually sexual abuse, Jonathan grew up to become a beautiful model of love, compassion, and a strong advocate for equality.

Untamed (Glennon Doyle, 2020): The most recent book from this author is a collection of different life episodes highlighting the way society conditions women, and her individual journey toward authenticity, and self-empowerment. A life-changing book that forced me to reflect on my own conditioning as a woman and as human being, and invited me to explore my intuition, creativity and personal power.

Becoming (Michelle Obama, 2020): An overview of Michelle Obama’s life, including her years as the first lady of the United States. This is a beautiful book exemplifying how people around us, and seemingly ordinary moments can influence our life’s trajectory so deeply. A journey of "becoming" told by a woman full of insight and compassion, highlighting the relevance of personal stories to connect, and empower people.

More Myself (Alicia Keys, 2020): Alicia Keys is a professional musician, songwriter and social activist. More Myself is a raw memoir detailing Alicia's journey as an individual and a musician. Guided by the belief she should not change her personal style to fit the requirements of the music industry, Alicia's life is a succession of wise life choices that eventually culminated in the role model she is today. A book about resilience and authenticity.

Medicine, Health & Healing

Radical Remission: Surviving Cancer Against All Odds (Kelly Turner, 2014): Kelly Turner, Ph.D., is an American researcher, who collected and analysed testimonials from more than 100 patients, who had experienced unexpected cancer remissions. In this book, she presents nine factors, common across most survivors, that may contribute to facilitate healing. I read this book in the beginning of my cancer journey and it was truly empowering. From the nine factors presented in the book, I dedicated most of my time to creating the emotional and spiritual environments that, I thought, would benefit me. For people who would like to explore different diets and supplements, I would advise seeking specialised medical help, particularly because some of these approaches are contra-indicated during chemo and radiotherapy. Apart from that, this book was an encouragement to re-evaluate my emotions, relationships, and spirituality, and use my cancer journey to promote healing.

It didn't start with you (Mark Wolynn, 2016): Mark Wolynn has a degree in psychology, and is a world leading expert in inherited family trauma. This book summarises the research evidence in the field of inter-generational trauma, and introduces the new field of epigenetics (the study of inherited characteristics, that are independent of your DNA sequence). It is a book approaching a novel subject that made me think deeply about the origin of familial patterns, and adjust some of my most engrained behaviours.

Mind over medicine - revised edition (Lissa Rankin, 2020): In this book, Lissa Rankin, M.D., compiles the research evidence supporting mind-body approaches to healing. An important work, highlighting the relevance of holistic approaches to achieve optimal health.

Mental & Emotional Health

Man's Search for Meaning (Viktor Frankl, 1946): Viktor Frankl, M.D., Ph.D., was an Austrian neurologist and psychiatrist, and a holocaust survivor. This book is a masterpiece of psychology, detailing how having a vision for ourselves and our future can provide us with hope, meaning, and ultimately save our lives. A book for everyone who has ever lived, particularly for people going through challenging times.

Healing the shame that binds you (John Bradshaw, 1988): John Bradshaw is an American counsellor, author and speaker, who introduced the concept of "the inner child", the part of your psyche that retains childhood memories and trauma. This book is focused on toxic shame, its impact on people's lives, and strategies to heal. An excellent tool on my path of self-exploration, casting a light on the impact of toxic shame on my self-esteem, and the quality of my close relationships.

Revolution from Within: A Book of Self-esteem (Gloria Steinem, 1992): Gloria Steinem is an American feminist, activist, and journalist. During her years as a spokeswoman for the 60s and 70s feminist movement in the United States, she met multiple strong and intelligent women who seemed to lack confidence and self-esteem. However, as Gloria describes herself, books about self-esteem were either oriented towards internal change, or external change. This book is unique in highlighting that self-esteem results from both internal and external work. In a world still dominated by patriarchy, this book has the potential to educate both women and men in the path towards equality.

Rewire your Brain: Think your way to a better life (John B. Arden, 2010): John B. Arden, Ph.D., is a neuropsychologist, and an advocate for the use of evidence-based mind-body therapies. This book explores the theme of neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to reorganise and grow neural networks), and details evidence-based approaches to rewire the brain and change behaviour.

The body keeps the score: Mind, Brain and Body in the Transformation of Trauma (Bessel Van der Kolk, 2014): Bessel Van der Kolk, MD, is a psychiatrist and researcher, whose work is focused on PTSD and trauma. This book is a summary of the current evidence on trauma and chronic stress. It is an excellent book to understand how these conditions translate into physical signs and symptoms, and the most effective therapeutic approaches. More than just a book about trauma, it is a scientific description of the mind-body connection, highlighting the contribution of our emotional world to our overall health state.

The empath survival guide: life strategies for sensitive people (Judith Orloff, 2017): Judith Orloff, MD, is an American psychiatrist, with a particular interest on people who are labeled as overly sensitive or empathic. This book is an excellent guide for people who feel life intensely, sometimes to the point of experiencing the pain of others as if it was their own. As an empath myself, this book validated the way I experience the world, and taught me some life strategies to conserve my energy, and enhance my mental and emotional health.

Creativity

Big Magic (Elizabeth Gilbert, 2015): Elizabeth Gilbert is an American journalist and writer. This book presents a unique view on creativity as a vehicle for self-expression, self-knowledge, and healing. It is an invitation to be curious about the effects of creating something just for the pure pleasure of seeing an extension of ourselves in the tangible world. A book that freed me up to explore my own creativity and let go of any fear associated with it.

Relationships & Sexuality

Tantric Sex - Making Love Last (Cassandra Lorius, 1999): A simple and clear introduction to tantric sex. This book broadened my perspective on sexuality and love making by presenting multiple ways to build up intimacy between couples. I believe it can be particularly useful for people with physical limitations, because it provides a fresh perspective on intimacy, invites creativity into the bedroom, and demystifies the current assumption that sex needs to include intercourse.

Mating in Captivity - Unlocking Erotic Intelligence (Esther Perel, 2006): Esther Perel is a Belgian psychotherapist, whose work is focused on modern relationships and sexuality. In her first book, she provides a new perspective on modern relationships, discussing the paradox of security vs. freedom as a key determinant for maintaining eroticism in a long-term relationship. A book that made me question my patterns within close relationships, and try new ways of relating.

Committed (Elizabeth Gilbert, 2010): American author Elizabeth Gilbert had never considered remarrying, until her partner was prevented to enter the United States due to visa restrictions. In an attempt to make peace with the institution of marriage, she is driven to investigate its origins, differences between cultures, and its evolution over time. A brilliant investigative work, that made me consider marriage in a different light.

The State of Affairs, Rethinking Infidelity (Esther Perel, 2017): The second book from Esther Perel discusses the theme of infidelity. A deep and open-minded exploration of the reasons leading people to cheat in committed relationships, and an invitation to explore new ways of relating that can better serve us in a long term.

Spirituality & Yoga

The Seat of the Soul (Gary Zukav, 1989): Gary Zukav is an American author and a spiritual teacher. His Book The Seat of the Soul is an exploration of our capacity for spiritual evolution, centered around the concept of the human soul. A encouragement to live a life grounded in our soul's purpose in order to achieve authentic power.

Radical Forgiveness (Colin Tipping, 1997): Colin Tipping is an English author, and creator of the Radical Forgiveness method. This book is a guide to help people forgive those who hurt them, and overcome associated feelings of anger, sadness, and resentment. I like the spiritual principles underpinning this book. Most of all, I think it provides an empowering new perspective on relating dynamics, describing how every challenging relationship can be an opportunity to re-examine ourselves, and learn to make smarter choices.

What I Know for Sure (Oprah Winfrey, 2014): This book feels like a masterclass with Oprah Winfrey, in which she shares her most valuable and important life lessons. Oprah's spiritual vision of the world is more than inspiring, having provided me with hope and meaning during some of the most challenging times in my life.

Sacred Contracts: Awakening Your Divine Potential (Caroline Myss, 2001): Caroline Myss is an American author and internationally renowned speaker in the fields of human consciousness, spirituality, and energy healing. This book proposes a new outlook on Carl Jung's psyche archetypes as a tool for broadly identifying the gifts we bring to the world, and our authentic values. A great tool for aiding self-enquiry, inviting us to reflect on the values/behaviours that serve us well, and those that are outdated.

Yoga, The Essence of Life (Alix Johnson, 2004): Alix Johnson is a journalist, yoga practitioner, and a qualified yoga teacher. This book is a collection of interviews with prominent yoga teachers, where they share their personal and spiritual journeys, the hurdles and challenges they overcame, and their perspectives on yoga and life. A beautiful book for both yoga practitioners, and people who are new to yoga.

End of Life, Death & Grief

The Death of Ivan Ilyich (Leo Tolstoy, 1886): A literature classic written by Leo Tolstoy, a Russian author and one of the greatest writers of all time. This book portrays the story of a man experiencing a painful death as a result of a disconnected and artificial life. The book explores the meaning of life, and suggests that life and death are unequivocally connected, reflecting each other like mirrors.

On Death and Dying: What the Dying Have to Teach Doctors, Nurses, Clergy & Their Own Families (Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, 1969): Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, MD, was a Swiss-American psychiatrist and a pioneer in end-of-life research. This book presents a collection of interviews she conducted with people at the end of life, and a discussion meaning behind them. A remarkable work that shines a light on what is important for people at the end of life, a time that can be both challenging and beautiful.

The Last Lecture (Randy Pausch, 2008): Randy Pausch, Ph.D., was an American professor of computer science, who was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer in 2006. This book is based on his last lecture entitled "Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams" delivered at Carnegie Mellon University, in 2007. A remarkable testimonial of a man's life, including major life lessons, and what really matters in the face of death.

Caring for the Dying: The Doula Approach to a Meaningful Death (Henry Fersko-Weiss, 2017): Henry Fersko-Weiss is clinical social worker and an end-of-life doula, providing physical, emotional, and psychological support to people at the end of life. This is a book detailing the importance of creating meaning for someone approaching death and their families. I like this book for different reasons. Two of the most important ones are how it highlights the importance of rituals during challenging life transitions, and the way it sheds light into an emerging occupation that, in coordination with health care professionals, may help optimise people's end-of-life care.

To Love and Let Go: A Memoir of Love, Loss and Gratitude (Rachel Brathen, 2019): Rachel Brathen is a Swedish yoga teacher, author and entrepreneur, currently based in Aruba. This is a memoir focused on the loss of her best friend in a tragic car accident, and her own grieving process. A book about loss, and the importance of accepting pain, and not rushing through grief.

Social Awareness & Equality

To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee, 1960): Harper Lee was an award-winning American author. To Kill a Mockingbird is a classic of modern literature, and one of the most beautifully written fiction books about racial inequality. There is a gentle quality about this book. The story is told by a 6-year old character, which softens the heart of the reader, and invites us to reflect on how society shapes our views about race. To this day, this book holds one of my favourite quotes of all times: "The one thing that doesn't abide by majority rule is a person's conscience."

The Collected Autobiographies of Maya Angelou (Maya Angelou, 1969-2002): Dr. Maya Angelou was an award-winning African-American writer and a civil rights activist. Her collection of autobiographies is a classics of modern American literature, detailing her life from childhood up until the verge of starting her first autobiography. Six books that portray the story of a truly inspiring woman, who overcame impossible challenges with grace and dignity, becoming one of the greatest writers of all time. Concomitantly, these autobiographies highlight the role and importance of the 20th century civil rights movement towards a fairer, and more equalitarian society.

Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind (Yuval Noah Harari, 2011): Yuval Noah Harari, Ph.D., is an Israeli historian and a History professor in the Department of History of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. This book is a comprehensive overview of the evolution of our species, an analysis of our unique characteristics, and an exploration of current and future challenges. Throughout the narrative, the author invite us to reflect on widely accepted social constructs, and the way they serve us individually, and as species. This book made me question my choices, my role in my community, and how I would like to participate in the society at large.

How To Be An Antiracist (Ibram X. Kendi, 2019): Ibram X. Kendi, Ph.D., is an American professor, author, historian, and Founding Director of the Boston University Center for Antiracist Research. This book introduces the concept of antiracism, inviting us not only to reject racism but also to take action towards a juster society. A book combining history, science, law, and policy, making a strong case for the deep need for personal and systemic change in the path for justice and equality.

A Promised Land (Barack Obama, 2020): Barack Obama was the 44th president, and the first African-American president of the United States. This book provides an overview of his years as an early-career politician, and his first mandate as president. It gives us two perspectives from the same situation. Firstly, it gives us a zoom-out view of his daily life as president. Secondly, it gives us a zoom-in view of the president as a human being, heavily shaped by his family, his country, and his community. The book is a constant exploration of these two perspectives, and the way they inevitably shape each other. Perhaps my favourite aspect of this book, is President Obama's capacity for insight. Every issue he had to solve, and every decision he had to make were carefully reflected upon, and planned to the last detail. Whether you support his views or not, it is capacity to question himself, and imagine a better world that makes this book outstanding.

Me and White Supremacy: How to Recognise Your Privilege, Combat Racism and Change the World (Layla Saad, 2020): Layla Saad is a British author, speaker, and teacher. This book is a 28-day guide created to make readers examine the way white supremacy, and white privilege has shape their lives. This was my introduction to matters of race, and a difficult pill to swallow. It made me identify and examine my own racist thoughts/behaviours, and become an active contributor for positive social change.

For Women

Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype (Clarissa Pinkola Estés, 1989): Clarissa Pinkola Estés, Ph.D., is an American scholar, writer, poet and Jungian psychoanalyst. Through the masterful analysis of stories, myths, and tales from different traditions, this book unravels the concept of the Wild Woman (the instinctual nature of all women that is frequently repressed and tamed by society). This is a book to savour, not to read. Once in a while, I pick one tale and read the whole analysis, which is usually quite detailed and complex. It is an engaging and surprising invitation to start connecting with the untamed parts of yourself.

The Wild Woman's Way: Unlock Your Full Potential for Pleasure, Power, and Fulfilment (Michaela Boehm, 2018): Michaela Boehm is renown expert in intimacy, relationship and sexuality. This book is useful for women who live too much in their heads, experiencing excessive worry, anxiety, and a sense of disconnection with life. A practical guide suggesting multiple embodiment techniques designed to sooth women's nervous systems, and discover pleasure through the senses.