My top 5 mindfulness books
Over the years, I’ve become really passionate about self-development and finding ways to stay grounded in the middle of everyday stress. I’m always looking for practices that help me stay a little more zen, and love reading a range of self-growth and mindfulness books. Here are my top five books that started my mindfulness journey and why I love them. Inspired by the Japanese art of Zen living, they’re an amazing place to start if you’d like to become more present and bring more happiness and fulfilment into your life.
Zen: The Art of Simple Living
Shunmyō Masuno
Even if you’re unfamiliar with Zen monks or meditation, this book is an amazing starting point for beginners looking to bring a little more zen into their lives. It’s filled with short, easily digestible tips that help you slow down and find more peace, promoting a simpler lifestyle to energise your present self. It’s also fascinating to learn about the morning routines of monks and how they can inspire your own daily habits.
Ikigai
Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles
Another book I absolutely love! It’s not just about mindfulness - it also teaches you how to live a long, happy life with purpose. This book even inspired me to keep growing my small business while working full-time. Being creative is my Ikigai, and having my own business lets me share my creations with others, along with the tips I’ve picked up on my mindfulness journey. If you’re looking to connect with your passion and live more purposefully, this book is a must-read.
Don’t Worry
Shunmyō Masuno
A simple book full of quotes, tips, and mindful exercises designed to help you be more present in your everyday life. I initially picked it up because I wanted something quick and easy to read, so I could go through one or two tips in the morning before starting my day. The book is beautifully designed and features a variety of illustration styles. The content offers really inspiring tips that feel obvious, yet our minds often overlook them because we’re so distracted by screens and social media.
Wabi Sabi
Beth Kempton
This book explores the Japanese concept of Wabi Sabi -the beauty of the perfectly imperfect. It encourages you to let go of striving for perfection, enjoy the simple things in life, and appreciate the beauty in imperfection. Filled with reflections, practical exercises, and inspiring examples, it helps you bring this mindset into your home, work, and daily routines. Reading it has helped me slow down, notice the little joys, and embrace life as it is.
A Monk’s Guide To Happiness
Gelong Thubten
This is one of my all-time favourite Zen books - I even have post-it notes stuck to many pages to mark the amazing tips, quotes, and habits that Gelong suggests. It also includes some great guides for beginner meditation. This book inspired me to start meditating daily, helping me find peace with my thoughts and live more mindfully. It teaches you to accept the natural balance of life, the mix of good and bad, and find calm within it.
These five books have been a huge part of my mindfulness journey, they’re perfect if you want to slow down, be more present, and add a little more happiness to your life.