National Book Lovers Day 2024

Hello, beautiful souls!

As we journey through the realms of nature and nurture in the jungle of life, I thought it was important to shine a spotlight on a special day that resonates deeply with many of us, myself included: National Book Lovers Day has been celebrated each year since the start of the 21st Century on the 9^th August. Whether you are a seasoned bibliophile or a curious newbie, this day is a perfect reminder to pause, breathe and immerse yourself in the magical world of books.

Books are more than just pages and ink; they are gateways to new worlds, keepers of ancient wisdom and companions that inspire us, comfort us & transform us. Engaging with a great book can be as nourishing for the soul as a walk in nature, scribbling a few words in a journal or a deep meditation. There are many ways that getting lot in the pages of books can support wellness.

Here are the 4 main ways that books support and guide me though the twists and turns of life; 

1. Mental Escape: Just as a hike can transport you away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, a captivating book can whisk you away to distant lands and different eras, offering a mental escape. In these stories, we find refuge from our daily challenges and a chance to explore new perspectives.

2. Relaxation: Like the calming sound of a trickling stream or breathing deeply reading can also provide relaxation and calm. Studies have shown that reading for just six minutes can slow your heart rate and ease muscle tension, making it a wonderful practice for unwinding after a busy day.

3. Emotional Connection: Stories allow us to connect with characters and situations on a deep emotional level, fostering empathy and understanding. It’s akin to the connections we build with nature and the people around us. Through the lives and experiences of characters whether fictional or real-life, we often find reflections of our own struggles, joys and desires.

4. Knowledge, Growth & Personal Development: Books are a treasure trove of knowledge, providing insights and perspectives that can fuel personal growth and inspire new adventures. Each book we read adds a layer of understanding to our lives, helping us grow wiser, more compassionate and more equipped to navigate the challenges of life.

You might be thinking yourself how can I celebrate National Book Lovers Day, in a way that honours a deep connection with written words. 

Here are some delightful ways to honour this day and integrate the wild wellness of reading into your life:

Read Outdoors: Combine the tranquillity of nature with the joy of reading. Find a cozy spot under a tree, on a park bench, or by a bubbling stream, and lose yourself in a book. Allow the sounds and scents of nature to enhance your reading experience, creating a peaceful haven for your mind.

Visit a Local Bookstore: Support local businesses by visiting an independent bookstore. There is something magical about browsing the shelves, discovering new timeless, picking up something that catches your eye, and perhaps even striking up a conversation with the owner about their recommendations. Each book on those shelves holds the potential to change your life.

Host a Reading Circle: Gather friends or family for a reading circle. Choose a short story or a few chapters from a beloved book and take turns reading aloud. This is a great way to bond and share the magic of storytelling. Being in circle is a wonderful way to connect with like-minded souls, exchange ideas and discover new genres & authors.

Gift a Book: Spread the joy of reading by gifting a book to someone special. Choose a title that has had a profound impact on you and write a heartfelt note sharing why it holds a special place in your heart. Your thoughtful gift could become a treasured part of their life journey.

As I reflect on the books that have shaped my own path I want to share some of my personal favourites that embody the essence of being a wild and wonderful woman and hold a special place in my heart and in my library of life...

Wild by Cheryl Strayed: A raw and inspiring memoir of personal transformation and self-discovery through a solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. Cheryl’s journey is a testament to the strength and resilience we all carry within us.

Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis: A down to earth book that encourages and inspires us as women to live our best, most authentic lives. The words that Rachel shares are a reminder that we have the power to create the life we desire & deserve.

Braving The Wilderness by Brene Brown: A powerful exploration of true belonging and tthe courage it takes to stand alone. Turn over the pages to learn about the BRAVING practice to cultivate a deeper sense of connection and authenticity.

The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga: This self-help offers a unique and alternative perspective to achieve a fulfilling life. Challenging us to break free from societal expectations and embrace our true selves. It is a book that is thought provoking and deeply moving.

Women Who Run With the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés:  Women Who Run With the Wolves is a book that captivates me with its timeless wisdom, pulling me back into its pages again and again and again.This profound work is a book that explores the power of the wild woman archetype through myths, fairy tales and stories that reconnect us with our intuitive, instinctual nature. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking to embody their inner wildness and live a life of authenticity and strength.

Your Bed Loves You by Meredith Gaston: Prioritising sleep is an absolute must in life and this book celebrates the power of sleep and all things related with comfort and calm. Get ready to relax, be guided through a world of sleepy facts and delicious ideas to send you to dreamland and prepare you for not only a restorative but also creative sleep. This book is a delightful guide to creating a bedtime routine that nurtures both your body and soul.

On this day, National Book Lovers Day, I invite you to embrace the journey that a great book offers. Just as we seek wellness through nature, nourishment, movement and mindfulness, may we also find it in the stories that touch our hearts and expand our minds.

I would love you to share your favourite books below as I am always looking for new titles to add to my library of life.

Books are not just a pastime; they are a path to greater understanding, empathy and personal growth.

Happy reading, my wild wellness warriors!

Until next time, stay curious, stay wild , turn those pages and keep nurturing your beautiful self.

Hannah