WISDOM
RESILIENCE READS
BOOKS FOR BOUNCING BACK // By Karl Gostner
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urviving times of acute hardship requires a careful balance of engaging with the reality of the moment while still keeping our eyes fixed on the horizon. It is this combination that allows us to be fully present and grounded in our experience without becoming overburdened and stagnant. With cognisance of our current reality and hope for a better tomorrow, we can take intentional action to create the future we envision for ourselves, our planet, and all those beings with whom we share it. But this is no easy task. In times such as these, as we attempt to conquer tomorrow while surviving today, it is vital that we look to sources of inspiration and wisdom. This collection of nonfiction draws together the best of human knowledge, experience and guidance to provide not only a roadmap to brighter days, but also invaluable comfort and encouragement as we make our way through the darkness. Dark Nights of the Soul: A Guide to Finding Your Way Through Life’s Ordeals by Thomas Moore, PhD In this powerful work of nonfiction, American psychotherapist, theologian and spiritual writer Thomas Moore draws on contemporary and ancient wisdom to offer guidance for navigating and finding renewal in our darkest
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moments. The ‘dark night of the soul’ refers to a period of great pain, sadness, and – inevitably – transformation. In the introduction, Moore writes: “The dark night saves you from being stuck in your small life. It makes you a hero. It grows you into your fate and into being a responsive member of your community. In your mother’s womb you were becoming a person. In your womb-like dark night you are becoming a soul.” Moore does not look upon the dark night as the enemy; rather, he sees an opportunity to reflect, reshape and grow. If you are looking to discover the positive potential of our current hardship, Moore may just have the answers you are seeking. Apollo’s Arrow: The Profound and Enduring Impact of Coronavirus on the Way We Live by Nicholas A. Christakis Nicholas Christakis – trusted physician, sociologist and head of the Human Nature Lab at Yale University – strikes a sound balance between philosophy and science in Apollo’s Arrow as he unpacks the long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on human society. Although focused on the US context, this expert analysis sheds ample light on the global experience of the health crisis. With comprehensive examinations of and reflections on past pandemics, scientific research and sociological theory,
this work offers a grounded and wellsubstantiated exploration of how the coronavirus has shaped our world, and where we may be headed next. Resilience: Powerful Practices for Bouncing Back from Disappointment, Difficulty, and Even Disaster by Linda Graham Seasoned psychologist, counsellor and coach Linda Graham is wellversed in the art of building resilience for endurance through life’s toughest challenges. Through a measured combination of neuroscience and holistic approaches to wellbeing, Graham has created an encyclopedia of over 130 evidence-based, experiential exercises that you can perform daily to strengthen the foundations of your resilience. With regular practice and active self-care, you can use Graham’s techniques to ‘rewire’ your brain’s habitual coping mechanisms and transform challenges into opportunities for posttraumatic growth. Unf*ck Yourself, Unf*ck the World: Revelations to Save Your Life by Kagiso Msimango Kagiso Msimango’s Unf*ck Yourself, Unf*ck the World is a rollicking read that takes us on a whirlwind tour through everything from planetary grids and family constellations to plant medicine, behavioural kinesiology, mindful breathing and more. Msimango’s humorous,
