For years now, whenever a new book is released by neuroscientist Dr. Caroline Leaf, I am quick to add a copy to my TBR list. Her work has impacted me tremendously, and I have recommended her insights to many people I know. While her newest publication from Baker Books has a bit of a contentious title (it is not something I can easily give as a gift without offending the recipient!) it is powerful and potentially life-changing nonetheless. “Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess: 5 Simple, Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking” is a powerhouse of a book. Packed with up-to-date brain research from Dr. Leaf’s own clinical studies and the research of other scientists, this book combines science with practical application. Continue reading
Dr. Caroline Leaf definitely has a gift for writing timely books that prove to be exactly what the world currently needs. Just take a look at the title of her recent release from BakerBooks: “101 Ways to Be Less Stressed: Simple Self-Care Strategies to Boost Your Mind, Mood, and Mental Health”. 
Have you ever been told “you’re just too sensitive” and “don’t let things get to you”? Do you find yourself very aware of your surroundings, including tiny details that other people often miss? Do you take longer to process new information and form a response than others? Do loud noises, bright lights, and strong smells affect you intensely? If you answered yes to any of these sample questions, you just might be an HSP – a Highly Sensitive Person. . . According to Denise J. Hughes and Cheri Gregory’s new book from Harvest House Publishers, “Sensitive & Strong: A Guide for Highly Sensitive Persons and Those Who Love Them”, one in five people are HSPs, but many of us have become adept at hiding this truth – even from ourselves. 
Sometimes a book’s title accurately and succinctly describes exactly what you can expect to find within the pages. That is the case with a new book by Nelson Searcy and Jennifer Dykes Henson – “The New You: A Guide to Better Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual Wellness”. Published by BakerBooks early in the new year of 2019, this book is a practical yet exciting, user-friendly resource to help us form new habits and, consequently, improve our health. 
For many people, Christmas can be a rather controversial topic. It’s supposed to be the “most wonderful time of the year”, filled with reflection on the baby in a manger and quality time with family. While this may be the case to some degree, there’s more to the story for most families. . . In reality, this season is also a time of hectic chaos, heartache that seems to build up from a difficult year, and frustration over what we wish was true but isn’t. In a new book from Baker Publishing, “Loving My Actual Christmas: An Experiment in Relishing the Season”, Alexandra Kuykendall unpacks some great insights into being present AND finding joy in our own actual, imperfect Christmases. 
Prairie Sky Book Reviews 