Five Essential Reads to Further your Growth
Updated: Aug 24, 2022
It Didn’t Start with You by Mark Wolynn: This is a great read about what Wolynn terms “inherited family trauma.” If you are interested in the psychological patterns that have been in place in your family prior to your existence, this book will keep you engaged as you learn about generational trauma and its impact on the present. This is not a book that blames parents, but, rather, looks into the tendency for trauma to cross generational lines.
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk: This book continues to gain popularity as we work to understand how trauma affects the body. The author studied acute trauma in Vietnam veterans, but he makes his findings applicable to everyday life. If you are interested in gaining a better understanding of how your brain and body work together, this is a must-read.
The Orchid and the Dandelion: Why Sensitive People Struggle and How All Can Thrive by W. Thomas Boyce: The main concept here is that sensitivity, although often viewed as a weakness, is actually a great strength. This is essential reading for the “highly sensitive person” and an incredible window into sensitivity as a form of strength and resiliency rather than as a barrier to full functioning.
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown: Seeing yourself as imperfect is not an admission of weakness, but, rather, a testament to your humanness. Brown writes all about how shame impacts our sense of self and gives practical advice for letting go of shame and treating ourselves with love and compassion.
Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab: If you’ve ever struggled to set firm and appropriate boundaries with others, you’re not alone. This book will help you understand the concept of boundaries as well as lay out a practical blueprint for setting and maintaining them.
By Phil Lane, LCSW
This post is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
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