Spreading Joy
A gift from me to you
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As we approach the weekend, I’m excited to share some book recommendations tailored specifically to support you on your journaling journey.
But before we dive into the recommendations, I’d like to focus on the joy of sharing and recycling books.  There’s something so magical about passing along a beloved book to someone else, knowing that it has the power to inspire, uplift and bring joy to another person’s life.  By sharing our favourite reads, we not only spread happiness and positivity into the world, but also create connections and foster a sense of community.
When you receive a book from someone else, it’s not just a physical object, it’s a gift of knowledge, wisdom and inspiration.  Each page holds the potential to spark new ideas, ignite creativity and transform perspectives. And I have found as I immerse myself in the words and stories within, I become part of a collective experience, sharing in the joy and wisdom that the book has to offer.
Similarly, giving away a book is a beautiful act of generosity and kindness.  Whether you’re passing on a book that deeply resonated with you or sharing a new discovery that you think someone else will enjoy, you’re spreading positivity and making a meaningful impact in someone’s life.  And now more than ever, in a world where kindness and compassion are so important, these simple acts of giving can ripple outwards, creating so many waves of happiness and goodwill.
Myself and fellow Substacker
decided to do a book swap earlier this month.  We have given ourselves a few weeks to read the book and then we are going to swap back when we meet up IRL on the 2nd of March in Oxford for Afternoon Tea.  Books, tea and cake - my perfect kind of day.What about you… do you share books with friends? Maybe you have a cute little book box in your village or at the end of your street? But if you’re like me, there are some books I couldn’t possibly share! If you’d like to get involved with book swapping, you’re most welcome to join our book sharing initiative.  The only cost is the postage, but it’s such a priceless gift when it arrives at your door.
Additionally recycling books is not just about sharing happiness - it’s also about promoting sustainability and environmental consciousness.  By passing along books that we’ve read and loved, we extend their lifespan and reduce waste, contributing to a more eco-freindly and sustainable future.
If you’re in need of writers inspiration I highly recommend all these books, some of which I’m sure you’ll find in your local library.
Living The Artist’s Way - a follow on publication from The Artist’s Way - which has been my bible since I started properly journaling back in 2016.
Swallowed by a Whale - a new book I treated myself to last week. Filled with expert advice from over 50 writers on how to get to the page, sharing experiences of their own writing practice. I found it a fascinating read.
Little Stories of Your Life - A joyful and pretty book to read or simply dive into when you have a spare half an hour. Beautifully presented with lots of words of encouragement. A fabulous guide, focusing on how within us all, we have lots of little untold stories to share.
The Miracle Morning - an absolutely jam packed book, with easy to apply practical tips on how to start your day in a positive way.
Writing Down the Bones - written by one of my muses, Natalie Goldberg who is a legend and a dear friend to Julia Cameron. Apparently they are neighbours. What a dream that would be to meet them both for tea and cake.
Write It All Down - written by the very talented Cathy Rentzenbrink. If you’re about to start writing your memoir, this is an essential read. I’ve hosted a retreat with Cathy and after spending a long weekend with her, I must say, she is one of THE best memoirist and writing mentors around. It was a real privilege to collaborate with her, such a wonderful, warm and witty woman.
As a little gift from me to you, I’d like to post a book to one of my lovely readers, and it could be YOU. The book is ‘Floor Sample’ and is written by the wonderful Julia Cameron who wrote one of my favourite books The Artist’s Way. All you have to do is email me at hello@easeretreats.com
Happy Friday !
Until the next time
Take care and stay safe xxx
Writing Down the Bones changed my life back in my twenties. I also love Wild Mind by same author, and read obsessively about her life of writing and painting in New Mexico. Attending one of her writing workshops there was a (sadly never realised) fantasy!
I have a list of books I want to read that’s so long it’s not a list anymore it’s an infinity. HOW DO YOU organise your reading time and book selection? One at a time or several on the go? I thought that if I used library books only that would help solve the dilemma. In fact it’s only added time pressure and return management issues! Sometimes the sheer number of interesting books stops me reading reviews and looking at new book launches. Book exchanges though always work a treat. As do recommendations.