Caregivers try and do too much. You know what I mean, don’t you? When I was caring for Bob, I lost my perspective about life and I forgot about me. I’m pretty sure I’m not the Lone Ranger here, because this is just what happens when you are a caregiver. But thanks to my radio show, I have had the great opportunity to interview some amazing people, who are far more evolved in the area of self-care than I ever was. And one of the bonuses is that these individuals are also authors.

 When I am having a particularly rough day I know I can turn to these authors for comfort and a good reminder about the importance of caring for myself. Each of them, in their own way has mastered this. I keep their books by the side of my bed and I read passages for inspiration.

 Daphne Rose Kingma teaches people how to love – and that includes loving yourself. This she says, “Is her soul’s calling.” Daphne’s book The Ten Things to Do When Your Life Falls Apart takes the reader on a path of emotional and spiritual healing.

This is so important when caring for a loved one has rocked your world. It’s too easy to forget how important the journey is because you are so caught up in the minutia of caring for someone else. Daphne will throw you a lifeline and help you manage the multitude of emotions that accompany caregiving. There is peace to be found in the pages of The Ten Things to Do When Your Life Falls Apart.  

Donald Altman calls upon us to live our lives with a deep sense of ease, peace, clarity and possibility in his book, One-Minute Mindfulness.

This beautiful book teaches us how to get the most out of each minute. Donald Altman is responsible for showing me that how we show up each and every minute of our lives matters.

I have a copy of Donald’s book by my bed but also in my car. If I’m ever stuck somewhere, I pick up One-Minute Mindfulness and open it randomly and I’m reminded that in each minute of each day, there is grace.

Simple Abundance has been with me ever since Sara Ban Breathnach first appeared on Oprah.

Simple Abundance is a day book that teaches us to find abundance and gratitude in the simple joys of life. Some days you will be full with abundant feelings. Other days you’ll be challenged to find joy in simplicity. As a caregiver I would encourage you to find the beauty in the blessings you bring to your loved one’s life. When you embrace the concept of Simple Abundance, a transformation occurs within you. 

Let these authors take you to a place of internal peace with their powerful, insightful and compassionate words. Give yourself the gift of a timeless book.