Every year around this time, I start thinking about my intentions for the coming year, and while I often chose a single word to encapsulate my goals (a practice inspired by Juhea!), I also find inspiration by giving myself the time and tools to further explore my spirituality, a process that allows me to digest the joys and losses of the passing year while getting clear about how I grow in new ways in the upcoming. The “time” part comes a little easier during the winter holidays as work quiets down, and longer nights are ideal for getting cozy and turning inward. There’s something very special about the distinct feeling of quietude associated with this time of year.
When it comes to “tools,” however, nothing quite does it like turning to a soul-nourishing book that challenges old belief patterns and asks us to go deeper to better ourselves and better the world. The current spiritual place I’m dwelling in has been shaped, bit by bit, by the various metaphysical, philosophical, and self-help books I’ve explored over the years. And I’m ever grateful for them. This winter, I’ll be embarking on a road trip with my family, and I’m so excited to crack open some of the books on this list!
If you’re looking for some special books to add to your winter reading list–or gift your spiritually-minded loved one, consider one of these.
5 Life-Changing Books to Further Your Spiritual Journey
The Spirit Almanac: A Modern Guide to Ancient Self-Care
This gorgeously illustrated book is packed with self-care rituals inspired by the ancients. The Spirit Almanac is organized by season to help you flow with the earth’s natural rhythm all while finding your own and building your trust in your intuition. It’s also a delightful resource for learning about how these rituals came to be from various experts in the field.
Moon Lists: Questions and Rituals for Self-Reflection: A Guided Journal
This creatively structured journal is organized around the phases of the moon with corresponding prompts that help you reflect on life in-the-moment while also gleaning insight about your recent past. The journal is peppered with references to ’70s astrology, architecture, and art, making it an eclectic space for you to be at your most creative–and intuitive.
Coming Back to Life: The Updated Guide to the Work That Reconnects
Whether our planetary crisis prompts apathy or despair for you (or if you swing between the two), this incredibly thoughtful work is a must-read. The authors lay out a moving theoretical groundwork for making change in the world, both as an individual and as part of a group, and address the anguish so many of us experience when confronted with the failing health of our planet.
Women Who Run with the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype
This cult-classic work is iconic for a reason. Clarissa Pinkola Estes explores the archetype of the Wild Woman to illuminate the ways in which all feminine-identifying individuals possess strong instinct, passion, creativity, and drive–no matter how domesticated we have become. Rich personal storytelling combined with insights from world mythology makes this book as engaging as it is enlightening. You can bet that this book is on the shelf of nearly every modern shaman and oracle.
Fulfilled: How the Science of Spirituality Can Help You Live a Happier, More Meaningful Life
What makes someone feel truly fulfilled in life? According to Dr. Anna Yusim, it’s having a sense of spirituality. Using the lens of scientific evidence, Yusim puts forth a road map for cultivating your spiritual side, defining your ultimate purpose, moving past roadblocks, and fertilizing an abundant life. Readers can expect to experience enlightenment with the help of Western medicine, Kabbalah, Buddhism, and shamanistic traditions.
What’s on your winter reading list?
Related: Awaken Your Dormant Spirituality—3 Ways To Invite Magic Into Your Life
Top Psychologists Say Stress & Anxiety Are Healthy. Why You Don’t Need To Be Happy 24/7
7 Yoga Mudras To Manifest Your Intentions And Cleanse Your Energy
Get more like this—Subscribe to our daily inspirational newsletter for exclusive content!
__
Photo: Fabiola Peñalba on Unsplash, Amazon
