We all know that I've dismissed many forms of self-help in my anxious life. From the unnecessary visits to CBT and breathing exercises that seem impossible in a moment of panic, I am still impartial when it comes to self-help reading. Admittedly, on many occasions I've thrown them out of sight, underestimating their power in my time of need; afterall, what use are a few forgotten words going to be in the middle of a crowd? That is why I've decided to choose more 'attitude-changing' books.

The books in my TBR pile at the moment are a mixture of fiction and non-ficition, with self-help ones dotted in between. The mental health ones, though, are all based on how to change your lifestyle, outlook, and perspective. Making more engrained and memorable attitudes stick with you, rather than just being a bunch of meaningless demands.

Might I add - these books are on my To Be Read pile, but in no way does that mean I'll be reading them tomorrow. Hell to it - I might not even read them this year! What matters, is that I have a desire to read these books and will not drop even an ounce of pressure on my self for when they need to be completed and, what the hell, even if I start reading them and don't finish them, that's fine.  I've always noticed a great deal of  anxiety inducing idealism when it comes to reading, but I'm here to say that reading just one book in your life is a brilliant achievement and if you don't finish it, respect yourself for forming a critical opinion on it. 

1.  Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig

"A moving, funny and joyous exploration of how to live better, love better and feel more alive, Reasons to Stay Alive is more than a memoir. It is a book about making the most of your time on earth."

I've always heard brilliant things about this book and it's a lovely little pocket-sized item that I feel will sit pretty on my bedside table. I do worry that this might be a little bit triggering since it covers some sensitive and tragic moments in Matt's life, but the reviews do suggest that this book provides a useful and realistic perspective, taking a step back from the depressive mind and helping understand why there is hope at the end of the tunnel.

"This interactive mindfulness journal will engage all your sense and focus your mind on the present, drawing together the fundamental principles of mindfulness and ecotherapy in one fun, interactive journal."

This interactive self-help book is teaching me different ways to embrace nature when I'm out there. It includes all sorts, such as cloud identification and noting down feelings as I pay attention to how leaves crunch beneath my feet. Simple little acts of mindfulness are helping me to identify the power of nature and bring a different, more grounded approach to my outside adventures.
Whether I decide to pop this in my backpack on my next walk or take a few moments on a Sunday morning to step into the garden and record some sounds (maybe by trying to write them or drawing 'sound lines'), I see this book as an excellent way of encouraging the beautiful concoction of mindfulness and fresh air.

3. The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking

"Hooga? Hhyooguh? Heurgh? It is not really important how you choose to pronounce or even spell 'hygge'. What is important is that you feel it. Whether you're cuddled up on a sofa with a loved one, or sharing comfort food with your closest friends, hygge is about creating an atmosphere where we can let your guard down."

Of course, we all want to live the best, most stress-free life we possibly can and I guess unlocking that door and changing my lifestyle could end up impacting my perspective.  The thing that excites me most about this book is learning how to make my possesions and responsibilities work for me, rather than me working for them.  The idea of Hygge is contentment from the little things in life and I am definitely open to embracing that.