Inspiring Reads

The name of this practice was inspired by David Whyte’s poem Just Beyond Yourself, which reminds us that healing and growth often lie just beyond where we are now — a gentle invitation to step toward presence, curiosity, and that space that opens us towards transformation.

A few of my favorite reads explore trauma and healing, relationships and attachment, self-compassion, mindfulness, philosophy, self-help, and social justice. I’m also deeply inspired by poetry, drawn to voices such as Mary Oliver, Thich Nhat Hanh, Nayyirah Waheed, Andrea Gibson, John O’Donohue, Wendell Berry, Rumi, and Rainer Maria Rilke.

The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk

Explores how trauma is stored in the body and the path to healing. Also, fun fact: this book inspired me to become an EMDR therapist.

Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find—and Keep—Love by Amir Levine and Rachel S. F. Heller

Explains attachment theory and how it applies to relationships.

When Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön

Offers advice for navigating difficult times (and life in general) with courage and compassion. Pema's voice offers both straight, practical insight and enduring wisdom.

Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

Psychiatrist Viktor Frankl’s profound reflection on his experiences in a Nazi concentration camp and the enduring human search for meaning, purpose, and hope, even in the depths of suffering.

No Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz

Dr. Schwartz introduces us to Internal Family Systems (IFS), and shares how embracing every part of ourselves with curiosity and compassion can help us heal and live with greater wholeness.

The Body Is Not an Apology by Sonya Renee Taylor

A powerful call to cultivate radical self-love and challenge the shame and the systems that keep us from embracing our bodies as they are.