Did you know that the oldest known library in Thebes, Egypt, dating back to the second millennium BC, bore a sign “Psyches Iatreion” (healing place of the soul) above its door? Books have the power to heal. They help us cope with difficult situations and sometimes even have the answers we are looking for. Reading helps reduce stress and alleviates depression.
Bibliotherapy
Bibliotherapy (primarily clinical or therapeutic bibliotherapy) has long been applied to patients suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction. It is often suggested to those struggling with loss. Books and stories not only entertain but also provide comfort.
Self-administered bibliotherapy is equally effective. Don’t we all return to our favorite book when we are feeling low? I seek out mysteries and romances. Even reread books from my childhood.
Join me as I take you on a personal journey. How books have supported me during the darkest phases of my life. How they have helped improve my emotional well-being over the decades. And how they provide solace when my body is in rebel mode.
Surviving injury
My 20s weren’t exactly the best years of my life. At the age of 21, I suffered a back injury that turned my life upside down. A straight-A student raring to go. Valedictorian at my design school. And here I was barely able to sit up for a few minutes, let alone move around. I had made a switch to IT from design but keeping a job also turned difficult since each episode would leave me bedridden for weeks. I was angry. I was upset. Seeing life pass you by when you know you have the potential for so much more is a horrible feeling.
Back in the 1990s, I wasn’t big on meditation. Television has always given me a headache, literally and figuratively. Laid up in bed, I sought out my books. Reading and re-reading them. Including the ones I had sworn I would never read (My brother’s Jason Bourne series after being sorely disappointed by the ending of the first book). I gradually added my collection to our library. As I recovered, I launched my design agency and gave it my all. But at the end of the day, books were always my go-to.
Coping with loss and grief
We lost our father in January 2017. On Thursday, we were planning the Lohri celebrations. By Tuesday, he was gone. Little had we come to terms with the loss that my brother suffered a cardiac episode in July and was hospitalized for almost a month. In early December, I woke up to a loud thud at 3 in the morning to see my mother lying on the bathroom floor, her clothes soaked with blood. Within a span of less than a year, I lost my father and almost lost my only sibling and mother too.
The injury left my mother bedridden for months and confined to a wheelchair for another couple of years. As a sole caretaker, I again turned to books to help me cope. A way to escape from the realities of life. Those few hours where the pain of loss and fear of losing would take a back seat. I read books about doctors (my father being one). About families coping with illness and loss. But I also read a heavy dose of mysteries, thrillers, romantic comedies, fantasy fiction, and what have you. The escapist reads to block out the pain.
An emotional catharsis
A few months back, I received a copy of Silver Lining by Kamal Shah for a book review. As I began reading, it seemed as if life coming full circle. The Universe has its ways. Our journeys may not have been exactly similar but I could relate to the author’s thought process. The “Why me?”. The clinging to the thin thread of hope and finally accepting reality. The strong will to not let the injury define me. It felt cathartic. The book will always have a special place in my heart.
Reading for emotional well-being
Bibliotherapy is not a magic pill or a one-size-fits-all. That said, it is highly beneficial and helps boost mental health. I share a few tips on how to read for emotional well-being. Tips that I swear by. Tips that apply to both avid and new readers.
Find books that work for you
We are often more critical of ourselves than we are of others. Pick books that work for you, irrespective of the fear of judgment. Feel-good books. Cozy mysteries. Cheesy romances. Fantasy fiction. They are called comfort reads for a reason.
During the Holiday season and particularly in January, I stick to light reads. Not just as a way to de-stress after long working hours but also as a way to cope with grief. We never get over a loss. We just find a way to live with it.
Mind the triggers
Trigger warnings are often termed spoilers but are God-sent for those struggling.
A few months after my father passed away, I recall reading an indie romance. Out of nowhere, the story veered to the protagonist struggling with the guilt of not having done enough to save her father. That sent me on a downward spiral since it was the guilt I was struggling with too. It took me weeks to recover
Take a break and explore other avenues
If you are unable to read, don’t fret. The idea is to improve mental health and not add to the anxiety. By all means, binge-watch that show that has been on the watchlist for a while.
I am not an author but I write a lot. Every day. Sometimes even up to a thousand words. I am a big believer in journaling to channel my thoughts. As an introvert, writing is like meditation for me. The self-talk at the end of the day to voice it all out.
Explore different mediums
Audiobooks get a bad rap but they are my books of choice. Earlier this year, my arthritis flared up like nobody’s business. Holding a book to read was quite painful. I couldn’t cut down on work but I did need to cut down on my print books. Audiobooks, on the other hand, worked like a charm in more ways than one.
Hardcovers. Paperbacks. Ebooks. Audiobooks. Pick the medium that works for you.
Seek professional help
Bibliotherapy is a powerful tool but it can never replace professionals. Please seek help if you are overwhelmed or need assistance starting out.
In my five years as a book blogger, I have rarely shared anything so personal. Why now? I hope sharing my life experiences will help someone in need. Quoting the Pulitzer-prize-winning author, Jane Smiley, “Reading a novel is like giving yourself a hug.” Don’t we all need that sometimes?
The Healing Power of Books: A Personal Journey #TrulyYoursHolisticEmotions @rakhijayasankar @romaguptasinha Click To Tweet
This post is a part of Truly Yours Holistic Emotions Blog Hop by Rakhi Jayashankar and Roma Gupta Sinha
This blog post is part of the blog challenge ‘Blogaberry Dazzle’ hosted by Cindy D’Silva and Noor Anand Chawla in collaboration with Dr. Preeti Chauhan.
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October 18, 2023 @ 9:16 pm
Dear Ritu, I never knew you carried so much in your heart. You have suffered a loss, you met an accident, and you have been a sole caregiver. In this hour when we are worshipping the Goddess, your personal encounters remind me of that Maa Durga is hidden in every women like you. In my early twenties, I also met an accident and that left me with a permanent injury and it pains still. But now I have become habituated with the habit of walking with my ankle pain. From your musing, it’s clear that pain has been an integral part of our stories, and thus we heal each other with our virtual connection and hugs and abundance of love. I also want to salute our dearest aunty for being such an inspirational woman who keeps working at this age after having a severe injury. Just like you, Ritu, I too find solace in books and you can call me an escapist too. From your post, I am taking home two things that hit me hard. “Seeing life pass you by when you know you have the potential for so much more is a horrible feeling.” and “The escapist reads to block out the pain.” Thanks for writing your heart out here. May you receive an abundance of blessings from the universe.
October 19, 2023 @ 11:39 am
Your life journey has been a test of endurance and grit and is inspiring too Ritu! I now know where your steely strength and compassion originate and it has made me respect you even more. I was an introvert and somebody low on confidence as a child. Books were the place I found myself happy. I agree they have the power to heal. They can entertain and transport you to a different world, make your view of the world broader, and lets you know about others’ perspective, without the need to go out socially or divulge yours.
October 19, 2023 @ 12:40 pm
What a soulful post my love, I feel like giving you a hug and get one in return. Thank you for pouring out your heart and what a champion you are. Like you books save me as well and when I am unwell I resort to audiobooks. Like you I love journaling they are my coping mechanism and help me smile back. You are a beautiful soul and I have personally learned a lot from your journey thank you so much for the insights. Lots of love and hugs
October 20, 2023 @ 12:22 pm
Books have been my sibling and my friend all my life. I am a single child and have always been isolated by others in my childhood. People formed groups and pairs and left me out. I turned to books. I can so relate to you. I am also an introvert and self talk through journaling. I want to thank you for sharing your life here openly by being vulnerable, it gives me strength to face life challenges.
October 20, 2023 @ 3:34 pm
Gosh. That is a terrible time, Ritu. But glad you have gotten through all of that and ur mom is doing wonderfully now with her blog. It is so important to keep ourselves busy with things we love. And it’s awesome how BOOKS have helped you throughout your bad times. Tight hugs to you.
October 20, 2023 @ 4:55 pm
I have been a reader since a kid, My parents always encourage us to read. Books can pick us up from grief and show us the brighter side of living. your post is straight from the heart.
October 21, 2023 @ 2:33 pm
Warm hugs, Ritu. I feel you. You never shared before. Why? Sharing is also cathartic. Books have lost their charm for me. Living alone I feel lonelier if I sit in a room and read. For me writing is cathartic, but for the first time in 19 years I have a writer’s block as well as, I am not cooking. Both my lifelines. Fighting fighting as long as I can.I only wish I had words to ease your pain. More power to you and God Bless always.
October 24, 2023 @ 10:46 am
I put off leaving a comment because I had no words to say what I felt on reading your post Ritu. All I can say is that I am ever so glad you found solace in something as wonderful as reading. I am glad you could build it up into something worthwhile. I am glad you have a mom who is even more inspiring. Your post made me aware of how little we know of our online friends and that all of us are fighting battles others know nothing of.
Sending warm wishes and lots of love your way.
October 25, 2023 @ 4:15 pm
I agree books have the power to heal the weirdest of sins of which we are reaping the fruits as a duty.
October 25, 2023 @ 9:28 pm
Dear Ritu,
I always liked you and admired your style of review but I was not aware of the emotional roller coaster ride that you experienced in your life. Daughters like you are true blessings for parents. You had your own struggle with health but never gave up. You cope up with the loss of my dear uncle and still remain strong for your family. You witnessed the sufferings of your brother and handled everything like a warrior. You found your mom in such a painful state and yet gave your undue care and attention to ensure she is back with energy. Dear Ritu, how did you manage this all? You are not a simple girl but a true fighter having the guts to face all odds in life with courage, confidence and boldness and come out as a woman who can be inspirational for many others in this world. Reading for me is a stress buster and as Rakhi once said work for me is worship… It all helped me in overcoming some of the painful years full of failure . disappointment and physical distress about which I hardly talk to any. But yes, today I am free from those pains. But still I am way behind you and your emotional journey as a daughter, sister and above all as a human being. I am inspired by you and promise to be emotionally strong and bold like you as my father is also not in a good physical strength and has acute alzheimer. It pains looking at him and recalling who he was some years back… I know time is getting out of hand and no one can change my destiny … all that I pray God plz give him a few more years … to be with us. Your post will remind me to stay strong. God bless you Ritu… Love you and respect you a lot.
Regards
Samata
October 26, 2023 @ 8:51 am
I have always loved books. They are my go to friends as well. Which is why I enjoy a lot of classical literature, as it deals a lot with emotions. The indepth characterisation also helps to relate and understand situations, After all, it’s humans who write and their thoughts and environment shape them.
When I feel like lightening up, I read romance, Mills & Boon. They are just fantastic dream builders and then for thrills, I seek crime and mystery. I guess, we all have our ways and means of coping with situations that flounder us from time to time.
We are not an isolated community, and life isn’t a smooth joyride, but our anchors make it easy to continue the ride.
October 27, 2023 @ 8:34 pm
Ritu, I have told you this several times and I repeat it again. Your posts are a treat. And today, I saw the real you behind your posts. I always wondered, “How does this girl read so much?” Today I know why. I agree that books can help you cope, but guess what? Of late, I’ve been struggling to read even a few lines a day. But as you said, the idea is not to increase anxiety, so I’m waiting when I’ll restart the journey all over again. Hugs to you and I am so proud of you and Madhu Aunty. You guys are warriors!!
October 29, 2023 @ 2:29 pm
I’ve always noticed your passion for reading through your posts. I often wondered, “How does she manage to read so much?” Now, after reading your story, it all makes sense. Books truly have the power to help us cope.
I’m sorry to hear about the tough times you’ve faced, but it’s amazing how you found solace in books. Your tips for reading for emotional well-being are so helpful, especially the part about finding the right books for oneself.
Your words are now a source of strength for me, especially during those moments when I question, “Why me?”
October 29, 2023 @ 4:10 pm
Books have always been therapy for me. Reading and writing gave me immense happiness and peace that I cannot imagine pushing through a day without books.
My psychologist suggested me Power of Subconscious mind and since then there was no looking back. I have pushed through the hardest time with the help of the self help books. And the rest that I read for review have been my entertainment mediums.
October 31, 2023 @ 9:32 am
Ritu, although life has been kinder to me I’ve sought relief in books in hard times and can understand where you’re coming from. Heartbreaks, betrayals, insecurities, and any mental health issue did and still pulls me into crazy obsessive reading, sometimes for weeks on end. You’re a strong person and my respect for your grit and dedication has increased multifold after reading your journey. Kudos and God bless, my friend.
October 31, 2023 @ 4:42 pm
Dearest Ritu,
You are an amazing, strong and loving sister-in-law. Reading your post brought back memories and swelled me up. You are a vivacious reader, a cool design artist, photographer, foodie, a great listener, a reliable friend and talented in many other ways. Truly inspirational.
Like you, I lean on books so much so that an audiobook is mostly on when I am driving or doing the chores. Like you I find comfort in books as well as journaling. You and I have had book discussions in good times and during times of struggle.
I can’t believe you have read the same Jason Bourne books. 🙃, I really like your library. Know that you are loved ♥️
November 1, 2023 @ 10:53 pm
Your personal journey through the healing power of books is both touching and inspiring. Your resilience and strength shine through your words, and your ability to find solace, escape, and catharsis in the pages of books is a testament to the therapeutic nature of reading. The tips you’ve shared for emotional well-being through reading are invaluable, and your willingness to open up and share your experiences is a beautiful gesture of empathy and support. Your story truly emphasizes the profound impact literature can have on our lives. Thank you for sharing this deeply personal and uplifting piece.
November 2, 2023 @ 12:05 pm
I can’t find words to express my gratitude to you, who fought back to life courageously. Books are good partners, they take us to a different world while teaching us how to cope with the struggles of this world. More than any medium like books, it is you who should be ready to go with the flow, no matter what.
November 4, 2023 @ 10:57 pm
Hi Ritu, your personal experiences beautifully illustrate how bibliotherapy is more than just reading—it’s a lifeline that offers comfort and a sense of hope to those in need. Thank you for sharing this touching story. 📚💕
November 5, 2023 @ 9:48 am
Your experiences reflect the profound impact that literature can have on emotional well-being. The way you navigated through your back injury and coped with the overwhelming loss of your father, brother, and mother showcases the transformative role books played in offering an escape and a source of strength.
The tips you’ve shared for reading for emotional well-being are not only practical but also deeply empathetic. Your advice about finding comfort in books that suit our own tastes and being mindful of triggering content is incredibly insightful. Additionally, your encouragement to explore various mediums, such as audiobooks, opens up new avenues for individuals seeking solace through literature, especially when physical conditions make traditional reading difficult.
Your openness and the quote by Jane Smiley truly encapsulate the essence of the therapeutic power of books. Your words serve as a reminder that within the pages of a book, there’s a sanctuary, a place for self-care and healing. Thank you for sharing your personal journey and offering these invaluable insights into the healing potential of bibliotherapy.
November 5, 2023 @ 3:39 pm
A post after my own heart! Ritu, I wasn’t aware of your personal struggles but it’s admirable that you have moved on from them and continue to live a wholesome and happy life. May the love of reading always be with you…
November 7, 2023 @ 1:04 am
Ritu I didn’t know that you carried ao much in you..but I’m glad to know that you are a fighter. As a fellow book lover I agre that books can be the greatest healers. We ll have that one comfort read, that we pick up. Choosing what works for us is very essential when resort to reading the books to deal with emotional lows
November 10, 2023 @ 5:29 am
Books has been a source of strength to many introverts and when they are your side then magic is bound to happen. Ritu, you have surely been through toughest of times yet keeping it strong with support of books.
November 11, 2023 @ 12:30 am
Reading through your experience and imagining what you went through was a scary process. I have no clue how you paddled your boat through. If there’s a certain path to solace, you sure seem to have found it. May you find a Fruitful journey forward.
November 13, 2023 @ 7:49 pm
your post made me emotional and at the same time made me realise the power of books. We often never know about the person who we are interacting with online. Thank you Ritu for sharing your story.
November 13, 2023 @ 7:50 pm
Audiobooks indeed are saviour for many. For different reasons.
November 14, 2023 @ 12:17 am
I concur that reading books is one of the best ways we can heal ourselves and that they teach us many useful self-healing skills. I would be curious to know which books, other fiction, you found therapeutic. Also, anytime I’m feeling down or just want to spend time alone myself, I pick up a book and begin to read.
November 14, 2023 @ 8:41 am
Reding has always been my escape from emotional turmoil’s and issues in life. Books are like a door to some different destinations where I get to travel and feel happy and safe. They are truly mans best friend.
November 14, 2023 @ 12:55 pm
With time I am realising that books are going to be the best friend for years to come. I often journal as well and that’s also been a better solution than talking to people. I find solace like you in books
November 14, 2023 @ 1:00 pm
With time I am realising I find solace in books more than in people. With books I feel safe 🙂
November 17, 2023 @ 4:35 pm
Ritu – Big hug. I cannot imagine the pain and the mental strength and resilience you have had to get through it and grow and prosper – your sharing shows me that one can get through it, and it a okay to have a tool (like books) to get you through the rough times. the quote you shared and “Psyches Iatreion” really resonated with me.
November 24, 2023 @ 11:26 pm
A tight hug to you Ritu. You are a warrior. It is really difficult to survive the way you have gone through. I am glad that you survived. I do love books. As you mentioned it is therapy. And it is true for me too. Life give you hard time and books are the only thing I enjoyed to survive, to meditate and to gear up for survival.
November 26, 2023 @ 3:47 pm
Thank you for letting us into your world Ritu. We all knew the book reviewer but getting to know the woman behind the reviewer feels really good.
First of all hugs to you. I am glad that you found solace in books during rough times. Now I know why you are soooo passionate about them. I too agree that they heal and like you said, sometimes, the effect can be ulta also if we choose the wrong book… I have experienced that.
I wish you more books and I wish that the only reason you read them will be to read them.
November 29, 2023 @ 11:33 am
Thank you for sharing your deeply personal journey with the healing power of books,Ritu. Your resilience through physical and emotional challenges resonates deeply. My spine surgery after the loss of my husband and while I was struggling to make ends meet, makes me shudder even now. Your narrative on overcoming a back injury and navigating grief showcases the therapeutic nature of literature. I appreciate your insights on choosing books for emotional well-being and the importance of seeking professional help when needed. Your story is a powerful reminder of how books can be steadfast anchors, offering comfort and understanding in life’s tumultuous seas. But somehow I jhave not been able to go back to reading. Please keep sharing your personal battles. It is very inspiring and helpful for people like me to relate to and still be grateful for what we have. Madhuji has always been an inspiration and now I can put her on a pedestal after what she has been through.Wishing you continued strength on your healing journey with books.
November 30, 2023 @ 12:15 pm
I felt super attached to this article. I loved the way you penned every detail and how beautifully you conveyed a message via this article. I know it’s difficult to deal with mental problems, but the way you overcame and handled them is really commendable. Thanks for such a wonderful message and for not giving up.
December 1, 2023 @ 7:41 pm
Great sharing! I’m sorry for your loss and I hope the rest of you and your family would be at good health always. Reading books has been a passion of my dad. It was his pasttime activity(when we used to live without phones). Itbwas through his novels that I fell in love with reading and would find time in my busy mom-life for a few minutes of reading. It truly is something relaxing for me to have and would happily do.
December 2, 2023 @ 12:06 pm
There’s somethings that technology can’t replace. For bookish people like me, the mere smell and feeling of holding a book give a different feel. It almost makes me feel grounded, I’m immediately more mindful of the thin pages that I’m about to flip. I guess, for me, that’s how books make some sort of healing personally. The feeling of relaxation amidst all the chaos happening around you.
December 2, 2023 @ 5:42 pm
I can’t compensate for your loss and pain however if you ever need a friend im here. I never thot books had mind healing power.
December 6, 2023 @ 3:35 am
I love reading in any form, these days I am obsessed with audiobooks, I am going through the old books that I’ve read in audio format these days. Your poignant exploration of the healing power of books resonated deeply with me. Your personal journey beautifully illustrates the transformative impact of literature. Thank you for sharing this moving experience.
December 12, 2023 @ 4:05 pm
As much as I want to say sorry for what you been through, I want to look at things in a positive way and sure say inspiring. I am.glad all is well at the end and how you found comfort in reading books . We always have to have a hobby or keep us occupied with things that give positive outlook to our life. Glad you found one and wish many other women find it too.
December 18, 2023 @ 9:28 pm
Ritu I have seen your love for books . Books can heal no doubt. I was suggested to write to bounce back to happiness so I personally appreciate your experience with biblotherapy.
January 6, 2024 @ 12:37 am
Your story is incredibly touching and resonates with the transformative power of books in challenging times. It’s heartening to see how literature has been a source of solace and strength throughout different phases of your life. Your decision to share these personal experiences speaks volumes about the impact books can have on our lives. Your insights and tips may indeed provide comfort and guidance to others navigating their own challenges.
January 9, 2024 @ 7:54 am
Thank you for this inspiring peep into your life. Much-needed.