By Christian Adrian Brown
Body, Mind and Quill
ABOUT THE COLUMNIST
Quadragenarian fitness model, lifestyle coach and bestselling author of the critically acclaimed Feast of Fates, Christian A. Brown received a Kirkus star in 2014 for the first novel in his genrechanging Four Feasts till Darkness series. He has appeared on Newstalk 1010, AM640, Daytime Rogers, and Get Bold Today with LeGrande Green. He actively writes and speaks about his mother’s journey with cancer and on gender issues in the media.
Ah, summer! The season of sandy beaches, refreshing drinks, and leisurely days spent soaking up the sun. But wait, before you dive headfirst into the depths of relaxation, let’s talk about the hottest reads that will keep your mind sharp, your body fit, and your spirit enlightened. This summer, I’ve handpicked two books that seamlessly blend the worlds of fitness, mindfulness, and health, delivering a literary experience that will leave you motivated, inspired, and, dare I say, even a tad fitter.
If you’ve struggled to build and sustain healthy habits, “Atomic Habits” by James Clear is the perfect companion for your fitness journey. This New York Times bestseller is a refreshing take on habit formation and shows you how to make small, incremental changes that lead to remarkable transformations.
Clear’s writing style is as captivating as a motivational coach, blending practical advice with compelling anecdotes. He effortlessly draws you into the world of habit-building and unveils the power of micro-choices. Whether you aim to establish a regular workout routine, eat healthier, or improve your sleep habits, “Atomic Habits” will guide you with actionable strategies to make your goals stick.
“Atomic Habits” serves as a perfect bridge between fitness and literature by merging the principles of behavioural psychology with the art of storytelling. Clear weaves real-life examples and relatable narratives throughout the book, making it an enjoyable and enlightening read. By the time you finish the last page, you’ll be armed with a treasure trove of wisdom to make fitness and health an effortless part of your life.
Moving on, in a world buzzing with distractions, finding inner peace can seem like a distant dream. Enter “The Headspace Guide to Meditation and Mindfulness” by Andy Puddicombe, a renowned meditation expert and co-founder of the Headspace app. This book offers a comprehensive roadmap to navigate the labyrinth of your thoughts and achieve a calm and focused mind.
Puddicombe’s writing style is akin to a friendly conversation with a wise and relatable mentor. He breaks down the complexities of meditation and mindfulness into bite-sized nuggets, making them accessible to beginners and experienced practitioners alike. With its warm and conversational tone, this book invites you to embark on a transformative journey toward mental well-being.
What sets “The Headspace Guide to Meditation and Mindfulness” apart is its unique blend of practical exercises, personal anecdotes, and scientific insights. Puddicombe effortlessly intertwines his experiences as a former Buddhist monk with modern research, demystifying meditation and providing valuable tools for stress reduction, improved focus, and emotional resilience. Puddicombe emphasizes the significance of mental well-being alongside physical health. Likewise, this book will help you cultivate a daily meditation practice and inspire you to approach your fitness goals holistically.
Don’t let your summer reading list become a snooze-fest! As you embark on your summer adventures, whether lounging by the pool or exploring new horizons, don’t forget to pack these sizzling reads in your carry-on. “Atomic Habits” by James Clear will equip you with the tools to build sustainable habits that propel your fitness journey forward. Whereas “The Headspace Guide to Meditation and Mindfulness” by Andy Puddicombe will guide you toward tranquillity, helping you achieve a balanced and centred mind.
Change is always within our grasp.
—C
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Article originally Published in the June / July / August 2023 Issue: Summer Reads.