Brazen Bibliophage

When I heard the title of this book, I vigorously rolled my eyes. But then I heard the subtitle (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included) and realized that Pooja Lakshmin, MD, truly meant real self-care. In fact, she debunks what passes for self-care nowadays and reveals that real self-care is an inside job.

Wellness influencers and quick-fix peddlers would have you believe that supplements, yoga, mediation, cleanses, beauty products, foods, and a plethora of other things you have to buy are real self-care. It’s all lies. Real self-care is the principles and internal processes that enable you to care for yourself. You might still do yoga, but it’s the self-care that got you there, not the yoga itself.

Dr. Lakshmin’s book provides you with concrete steps to develop real self-care. If you’re one of the millions of people who aren’t getting what they need from faux self-care, get this book right away. Complete all the exercises and turn back to them when you’re struggling. Real self-care requires repeated practical application.