Jessica’s Bookshelf

Here, you’ll find some of my favorite reads: books that have inspired, healed, and guided me on my journey. From mindfulness and spirituality to self-discovery and growth, these books are close to my heart, and I’m so excited to share them with you.

Journey of Souls

This book changed everything for me. It’s an incredibly fascinating read that explores life between lives and challenges you to keep an open mind. You don’t have to believe every word, but even embracing parts of it can shift your perspective forever. I’ve recommended it to so many friends (and my husband), and they’ve all been as captivated by it as I was. I talk a little more about it in my post Finding Something Greater: A Spiritual Journey.

Why Buddhism is True

This book is a deep dive into Zen, meditation, and mindfulness, but what makes it stand out is how relatable it is. Robert Wright shares his struggles with the practice, making it feel real and accessible. He also connects Buddhist concepts to pop culture, which helps bring these ancient teachings into a modern context. If you’re looking for a thoughtful, relatable introduction to mindfulness, this is a must-read! I also mentioned it in my post Starting Your Mindfulness Journey in Simple Steps if you want more details.

The Holy Bible

We all know this book. Some of us may know it front to back, some may only know of passages we’ve heard in passing. But as you grow, I invite you to read and reread. Especially the gospels of Jesus. If you can take anything from the Bible, it’s Jesus’ teachings. Reading this as an adult, after a 5-year stretch of inner work, it resonates so deeply with me. Now that I know myself and my spirit, I can see the messages much more clearly. If you are not sure or want to dig deeper without committing, start with A Spiritual Walk Through the Bible. You can also order a completely free New Testament Bible here.

The Glucose Revolution

Through this book, I’ve found it’s not just about what you eat, but when and how you eat it. This book opened my eyes to simple, science-backed tips for balancing blood sugar and breaking free from cravings and energy dips. I discussed it in my Mood & Food Series: Blood Sugar Spikes post. It’s a refreshing approach to feeling your best, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

This book explores the Japanese concept of ikigai, which means “a reason for being.” It offers practical insights into how you can discover your own purpose and live a more fulfilling life. Stories of people who’ve found their ikigai show how passion, mission, vocation, and profession can all come together to create a meaningful life. It’s a beautiful read if you’re looking to explore what truly makes you feel alive. Read more about it in How to Live a Long and Happy Life.

Zen As F*ck

This journal is a fun, no-pressure way to dip your toes into healing and shadow work. I actually picked it up before I even started my self-discovery journey, and it’s been a great introduction to mindfulness without feeling overwhelmed. Its lighthearted tone and practical prompts make the self-reflection journey approachable and even enjoyable! I recommended this journal and talked about more journaling tips here.