6 Books to Read During Quarantine
We are all aware that Covid-19 has resulted in us practicing social isolation leaving us with a lot of time in our hands. Although all this free time may initially seem like an indulgence as we are able to rest for prolonged periods of time or spend a great deal of time with our family without thinking about other commitments, social isolation or in other words, ‘quarantine’ can leave us with many negative health implications physically and mentally ranging from lack of physical movement, and an unhealthy increase in BMI to anxiety, constant overthinking and worsening of depression. As a result, it is crucial that we fill our day with productive habits, one of which is reading.
Reading is one of the greatest habits one should make sure to include in their routine not only because it strengthens our brain and helps us increase our IQ (Intelligence quotient) through the development of our vocabulary and linguistic skills, but it also helps us unwind and reduce stress. In fact, studies show that the mental stimulation that is resulted from reading regularly can slow the progress, and even prevent Dementia; “systems of impairment in memory, communication, and thinking” ( Winter, 2020; see also “Dementia; symptoms”, n.d).
Also Read: 10 Benefits Of Reading Books: Why You Should Read Books
During such a time of uncertainty, it is crucial we try to look past the negativity around us and engage in reading. Here are some recommendations of self-help and mindfulness books that one should read during the quarantine. These books have been carefully selected and are a compilation of three genres; productivity, self-awareness, and entertainment.
6 Books to Read During Quarantine:
Productivity:
1. Atomic Habits
Author: James Clear
This book is one of the NY Times bestsellers and it truly deserves to hold this title, not only it helps individuals evolve into better individuals but most importantly, it’s one of the most realistic self-help books in the market that will change the way you think about the means to achieving success and happiness. This book takes a different approach when discussing the ultimate way to achieve success. In fact, one quotation that has really changed peoples’ perception towards the importance of habits and its contribution to building success is;
Breakthrough moments are a result of many previous actions, which build up the potential required to unleash a major change.
There are many other concepts and approaches that have been explained in the book that if applied, will not only allow you to achieve success but will make you a more disciplined and strong-willed person in life
2. The Success Principles
Author: Jack Canfield
This self-help book is a classic self-help book that is highly recommended due to its effectiveness. The Success Principles consist of many principles that will allow you to achieve success if applied and constantly practiced in your daily life. Although this book can be a bit dense at times, the concepts are very important to grow in life.
Self-Awareness:
1. The Courage to be Disliked
Author: Ichiro Kishimi & Fumitake Koga
This self-awareness book has been an enormous bestseller in Asia and is a recommendation to people that want to understand the true way one can achieve happiness and accomplish their goals in life. This book has been written by two Japanese philosophers and explores Adler’s psychology; a branch of psychology which revolves around the idea that the key to achieving happiness lies in your hands and isn’t determined by past traumas or experiences in your life. Although this book has gained some critics, it is still regarded as a life-changing book for the ones who are willing to read, comprehend and apply this knowledge into their daily lives for their mental and physical wellbeing.
A quote that has stood out from this book and will give you a glimpse of its contents are;
Being liked by others is not your birthright, neither everyone should like you is a compulsion for others. Have the courage to be disliked.
2. Becoming
Author: Michelle Obama
This particular book is an autobiography of Michelle Obama, the former first lady of the United States of America. Although it’s different to the other books mentioned above, it is still a great book that will not only allow you to understand the life and struggles Michelle Obama went through but most importantly, it will allow you to observe her life and truly understand her life through your lens, ultimately strengthening your ability to increase self-awareness and gratitude towards yourself.
Entertainment:
1. The Harry Potter series
Author: J.K. Rowling
This particular series (fiction) holds the rank in the Entertainment section and can be read by people of any age regardless of its specific fantasy genre. This series consists of seven gripping books that have been made into movies as well, however, they say that the books are better than the movies due to its detailed description and extremely vivid imagery that will not only leave you gripped in each chapter but will have you asking for more!
2. Me Before You
Author: Jojo Moyes
This particular fiction novel is a romantic novel that revolves around a love story of two very different personalities that become soulmates. Although this book will leave you teary-eyed due to its emotion-filled plot, it is an excellent book for unwinding and truly connecting with your emotional side.
Do give these books a read and leave a comment down below of your review!
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