The Best Books I've Read about Self-care

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Oh, the value of learning from others who have gone before and left sign-posts along the way! I have learned so much from the collective experience and wisdom of these authors who have impacted my life. Mental health can be a lonely and isolating journey fought in secret places, and knowing I am not alone as I read these books has given me strength and hope to persevere.

Here is a list, in no particular order, of my top eight books about self-care and mental health. These books have left an imprint on my life, and I find myself recommending them to friends and colleagues frequently. I hope you love them as much as I did.

Four Gifts: Seeking Self-Care for Heart, Soul, Mind and Strength

I felt an instant connection with April Yamasaki, a fellow pastor, overwhelmed with the demands of family and ministry. She looks at self-care for the whole person— heart, mind, strength and soul. This book is full of biblical truth and practical advice for those of us who want to love God with our whole being while living in a fast-paced world.

Get Your Life Back: Everyday Practices for a World Gone Mad

I recently read this book, recommended and loaned from a friend, and I'll be getting my own copy so I can read it regularly. John Eldredge articulates the soul thirst caused by our modern, distracted world, and shares wonderful insight. I love what he says about the restorative nature of beauty and the importance of giving ourselves time to process transitions in life. There is so much wisdom in this easy-to-read book. I highly recommend it. There is a study guide that goes with it. 

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World

This is another book I loaned from a friend but will be purchasing for my library. I found the beginning of the book quite discouraging as John Mark Comer explains the problems of our modern pace of life, but once I got past the first section, his advice and insight are life-giving. I love the simple and very practical steps he advocates for eliminating hurry from our lives and living from a biblical place of rest. It’s okay to drive in the slow lane!

Leading on Empty: Refilling Your Tank and Renewing Your Passion

I've lost count of the number of times I've loaned this book to colleagues and friends. It is well set out, easy to read and full of permission-giving wisdom. Sharing from his own significant burnout experience, Wayne Cordeiro ministers to leaders who empty themselves for the sake of other's expectations and gives them a roadmap to healing. Every leader and pastor needs to read this book!

Didn't See it Coming: Overcoming the Seven Greatest Challenges That No One Expects and Everyone Experiences

This book is brilliant. There were so many 'Aha' moments for me! Even though I read it months ago, the truth has resonated with me, and I think about it often. I can catch myself going down the road to irrelevance, notice the signposts, and get back on the right track. These are all the lessons I wish I'd learned when I was younger, and am glad I know them now. Another unmissable dose of wisdom from Carey Nieuwhof.

Finding Spiritual Whitespace: Awakening Your Soul to Rest

This beautiful book is almost a devotional, following Bonnie Gray’s healing journey out of burnout to health. The chapters are short and thoughtful, and the reflection questions at the end of each chapter take us on our personal journey of healing and restoration. If you are feeling broken, this gentle book will help you find hope once again.

The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands

This book transformed the way I made decisions and helped me truly recognise the cost of saying yes to the opportunities that cross my path. Every yes also means a no to something else, and often the one's paying the cost are those closest to us. In this book, Lysa Terkeurst reminds us of how we have one precious life to live and our need to spend it wisely.

Simply Tuesday: Small-Moment Living in a Fast-Moving World

This is my current read, and I am enjoying Emily P. Freeman's friendly writing style. Reading this book is like having a cup of tea with a wise and encouraging friend. This beautiful book reminds us there is beauty, wonder and significance in the very ordinary and mundane moments in life, like Tuesdays. Each chapter ends with a beautiful prayer; a special gift.