My 6 favorite books to lead a whole life and feed a hungry soul
I’m back! My stay-cation was low-key and restful.
I got some sun and went for a brief trip to Santa Cruz to visit my brother. I was in heaven at the 100% organic farmer’s market and he and I got to go golfing. It was my first time and the other golfers definitely had some good laughs at my expense!
I also read a lot.
I’m a pretty avid reader and usually have about 3 books going at a time. I also have the habit of re-reading books. For instance, I read To Kill a Mockingbird, at least, three times each year.
The following list is my tried and true; the books I come back to for inspiration, relief or a kick in the pants. They remind that health is not only about the absence of disease, but about a whole, healthy, and rich life.
When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chodron: I was once on a retreat and the teacher asked people to raise their hands if they had come to meditation via a book or talk of Pema Chodron’s. Almost everyone raised his/her hand. Her voice is real and gentle and her instruction is so practical.
The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown. She describes the ten guideposts of people who live wholehearted lives. When I think about health and what it means to heal and be well, I hope it is in service of the opportunity to experience wholeheartedness.
Awakening Joy by James Baraz. Making changes in our health and life are not always easy. James is an encouraging narrator with practical tools to help us feel everything in our life, so that we experience more joy and fulfillment even amidst disappointment, pain, or disease.
Women, Food and God by Geneen Roth. This book is for every woman who has ever had a second thought about her weight. It is a poignant reminder of the the emotional nuances that underlie any relationship with food and an invitation to allow ourselves to be just as we are.
Jerusalem by Yotam Ottolenghi and Sami Tamimi. Yes, I read cookbooks cover to cover. And this one never ceases to inspire me and gets me out of a cooking rut.
The Art of Simple Food by Alice Waters. This book is infused with Alice Waters philosophy about food. For me, it’s a love note to the magic of gathering around the table combined with simple rustic cooking instruction that is accessible to a novice or experienced cook. Her books instilled in me a reverence for seasonality and the idea that a return to food can have a revolutionary impact on health and well being.
Have you read any of these? Any favorite books you find recommending all the time? Or re-reading time and time again?
Wishing you time cozied up with a good read!
Antonella
