Make room on your shelves—our go-to self-care books deserve some space in the stacks.
Though it's easy to focus on fitness and skincare when the word "wellness" comes into play, it's equally important to nourish your mind. You could be applying the best hyaluronic acid serums money can buy, but if you're stuck in a negative headspace, your overall wellbeing will suffer.
If you're in need of some spiritual guidance in terms of life and love, have a look at the titles below. From bestsellers to poetry compilations, these selections feature all the pep talk you've been waiting for.
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The best self-care books to add to your shelf
1. 'The Comfort Book' by Matt Haig
Haig's latest venture is a shoulder to lean on—in literary form. If you need an uplifting reminder that the storm shall pass, the bestselling author's assimilation of stories, lists and notes is the perfect way to go. Turning to history, science and even personal anecdotes, the writer offers his readers plenty of hope.
2. 'Untamed' by Glennon Doyle
Famed memoirist Glennon Doyle proves that we can do the hard things in this lengthy exploration of her true self. Though she seemingly had it all—a successful writing career, three children and a husband—things weren't quite adding up...until she met Abby. Her candid reflection takes us on her journey to finding happiness and offers plenty of helpful insight along the way. Considering over one million copies (and counting) have been sold, this book is a must for your collection.
3. 'Happy Not Perfect' by Poppy Jamie
Poppy found fame on social media, and she ultimately struggled to suppress negative thoughts. In her book, she takes a relatable approach that all millennials will appreciate (they say "Bridget Jones meets neuroscience") while attempting to tackle ways to improve mental and physical wellbeing, as well as our personal relationships.
4. 'Tiny Beautiful Things' by Cheryl Strayed
The author of Wild—and the once anonymous voice behind an online advice column at The Rumpus—has heard it all. From stories of love gone sour and inconsolable grief to hot sex and career highs, Cheryl has words of wisdom for every scenario you could imagine.
5. 'Good Vibes, Good Life' by Vex King
Taking into account mindfulness and meditation, Vex King's book offers readers a look at what it takes to turn negative thought patterns around, manifest dreams, overcome setbacks and, ultimately, be happy.
6. 'Note to Self' by Conor Franta
Self-reflection in its most creative form, Franta's words of wisdom are imparted to his readers through stories, poetry and photography. Though the social media sensation is also known for his comedy, he's not afraid to tackle difficult topics like clinical depression, social anxiety and self-love.
7. 'The Happiness Project' by Gretchen Rubin
While commuting on a city bus (oftentimes a hectic place), Rubin came up with the idea to live the next 12 months of her life dedicated to all-things happiness, and she used the latest trends and scientific research to find it. Prepare for some laughs along the way.
8. 'Buy Yourself the F*cking Lillies' by Tara Schuster
On the outside, Tara had it all: a fancy career in television and the appearance of having it all together. But truthfully, she had been suffering from depression and social anxiety. Her raw and humorous book focuses on finding self-love and turning those negativities into something positive.
9. 'Maybe You Should Talk to Someone' by Lori Gottlieb
This title is at the front of every bookstore for a reason: it's a hit. Equal parts humorous and insightful, Gottlieb's book explores what happens when a therapist needs a therapist. She examines patients' scenarios, all different, but universal in that everyone's looking for the answer to a happy life.
10. 'The ABCs of Self Love' by Melody Godfred
Learning the art of true self-love isn't as easy as learning your ABCs, but Godfred's charming workbook makes the effort a pleasurable one, with introspective exercises, helpful advice and personal stories at every turn.
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