I wanted to share some book recommendations with all of you in case you're looking to add to your reading list. These books have been truly transformative for me, covering topics like confidence, health, and happiness. I really hope you can take some time this summer to slow down and savor those precious moments with your kids, partner, friends, and most importantly, yourself.

Managing stress and lowering our cortisol levels can be done in various ways, as we all have our own unique ways of resting and slowing down. Personally, my rest days from working out involve walking on an incline on a treadmill or doing hot yoga. I'm just not great at sitting still! But it's equally important to find different ways to rest. So, let's consider reading as a form of "rest".

And no, I don't mean reading medical journals, although I do try to sneak in some poolside reading during the summer to make it seem like I'm not "working". #workaholicproblems

So, here's my list of life-changing books. Let me know if any of them resonate with you!

GRIT by Angela Duckworth: This book explores the concept of grit, defined as a combination of passion and perseverance towards long-term goals. Duckworth's research and personal experiences highlight that sustained effort and resilience, rather than talent alone, lead to achievement. I especially love the applications of this book in career growth and our children's success.

Fiber Fueled by Will Bulsiewicz, MD: This book delves into the connection between gut health, plant-based eating, and overall well-being. Dr. Bulsiewicz introduces the microbiome, the diverse community of bacteria in our digestive system, and emphasizes its vital role in maintaining optimal health. He presents a compelling case for a fiber-rich, plant-based diet to positively impact the microbiome, leading to weight loss, improved digestion, enhanced immune function, and better mental health. This book has completely changed my perspective on fiber—it's not just for pooping!

The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love that Lasts by Gary Chapman: In this book, Chapman explores how individuals express and experience love through different love languages. He identifies five love languages—Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch. The book aims to enhance couples' understanding of each other and foster long-lasting, fulfilling relationships by embracing and utilizing these love languages. On a personal note, my husband and I have referred to this book countless times when we want to better communicate our needs.

The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor: Achor's book dives into the relationship between happiness and success. He challenges the common belief that success leads to happiness and presents evidence to support the opposite perspective—that happiness actually leads to success. Drawing on research from positive psychology and neuroscience, Achor emphasizes the power of cultivating a positive mindset and happiness, which can significantly improve our performance, productivity, and overall well-being. I'm almost finished with this book, and I've found many similarities between the concepts here and in coaching and developing a healthy mindset!

I would love to hear from you about books that have transformed your mindset and life. 

Wishing you all good health,

Shani Esparaz, M.D.

Double Board-Certified Ophthalmologist, Lifestyle Medicine Specialist, Certified Health & Wellness Coach