Here are some books that have sparked deep reflection for me. I add my most recent reads at the top of the list. Enjoy some food for thought!
Conspirituality: How New Age Conspiracy Theories Became a Public Health ThreatBy Derek Beres, Matthew Remski, and Julian Walker
Trauma Stewardship: An Everyday Guide to Caring for Self While Caring for OthersBy Laura van Dernoot Lipsky
Permission to Come Home: Reclaiming Mental Health as Asian AmericansBy Jenny Wang, PhDWritten by an Asian American clinical psychologist, this unique book is a culturally-informed look at the effects of racial trauma. While the material is geared towards those who identify as third culture or as part of the Asian diaspora, its transcendent themes can be useful for understanding intergenerational trauma and the legacies we carry.
Roots of YogaBy James MallinsonTranslations of over 100 ancient and medieval yoga texts, without much commentary – which is a great opportunity for you to think for yourself 😉
My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and BodiesBy Resmaa MenakemThe distinction made between “clean pain” and “dirty pain” is so helpful. Read to understand more of what this means.
Practice And All Is Coming: Abuse, Cult Dynamics, And Healing In Yoga And BeyondBy Matthew RemskiA compassionate and necessary look at the uncomfortable parts of yoga cultures and communities.
The Body Keeps Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of TraumaBy Bessel van der Kolk, MDThis comprehensive book unpacks how deeply trauma affects individuals and society. It covers some pretty heavy topics and is an absolutely worthwhile read.
Conflict Is Not Abuse: Overstating Harm, Community Responsibility, and the Duty of RepairBy Sarah Schulman
