Recently a reader wrote in asking about the benefits of reading and specifically: What are the benefits of reading? What impact does it have on us, in terms of increasing our ability to empathise/heal from past trauma? In what ways can it be therapeutic? Reading has tremendous benefits beyond therapeutic…

Is fiction as escapism healthy? A reader recently contacted me with the following questions: What makes you pick up a fiction book? Have you ever selected a fiction book as a means of escapism from your problems? Many people read fiction as a means of escapism from daily problems and…

I’ve recently had several requests from clients on reading recommendations on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to better understand what is happening there. So, I have curated a selection of non-fiction book recommendations and fiction recommendations. Hope you find it useful in the context of what is currently taking place. Non-fiction Book Recommendations 1…

Here are 11 books on developing a stronger sense of self-worth, the impact of which is greater self-esteem, confidence and authenticity. Before I discuss the books, below I’ve listed 6 of my go-to tips on building greater self-confidence. I hope it serves as a handy guide whenever you’re in need…

Time’s precious — on average we may only read 2000 books in our lifetime and for some people, it might be a fraction of that. Should we then focus on reading books that will help us, entertain us or benefit us in some way? Should we be more mindful and…

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health issues people face. Here’s a list of some of the best books on anxiety (covering both fiction, non-fiction, self-help) that I often recommend to my clients. …

In 1905, the Bloomsbury Group began as a group of writers, artists and thinkers who came together at artist Vanessa Bell’s London home to discuss and share ideas as well as support each other’s creative work, forming firm friendships along the way. Lesser-known Vanessa Bell was Virginia Woolf’s sister. The gathering quickly became a permanent fixture for the next 3 decades, taking the name ‘Bloomsbury’ as the majority worked or lived in townhouses within the Bloomsbury district of London. They met on Thursdays and Fridays, and whilst their art was revolutionary, they were better known for their controversial ideas…

Ways to use reading to help you boost your happiness hormones. Any that I’ve missed? A big hello and thank you for reading! Passionate about literature, psychology, and life I launched Book Therapy as an alternative form of therapy using the power of literature. I train mental health professionals, librarians…

Main Character Syndrome isn’t new and has always existed. However, it has recently been gaining significant prominence as a growing mental health concern, thanks to a TikTok trend where users have made self-deprecating videos, poking fun at themselves for feeling like a protagonist while partaking in completely mundane activities. The…