4 Books for Cultivating Self-Love by BIPOC Authors
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I found wellness as a lifestyle and practice after struggling extensively with my mental and physical health for most of my life. While I have tried and implemented many wellness related activities, from practicing yoga, to drinking herbal tea, or doing shadow work - self-love has been at the root of it all and ultimately set me free.
Doing everything with an energy of love showed me to myself, and taught me to discern, understand, and practice what I need to be well. Self-love as the root of all healing is an offering and passion I hope to share and spread widely amongst women of colour starting with this list of books.
For transparency, this blog post is sponsored by Indigo. However, you’ll read my opinions about the books and authors we truly admire at The Villij.
What is Self-Love?
Over the past few years, there has been a notable shift in the conversation around self care, self-love and intention that can and often does entail. We have collectively left behind the days of bubble baths and pedicures (not that we don’t occasionally indulge) as the ultimate depiction of self care and self-love and entered into a new era. One of radical, and liberating self-love filled with boundaries, rest, attachment theory, emotional intelligence, trauma informed, and mindfulness - to name a few.
Self-love looks and feels different for each person but is rooted first in self understanding and expands to self-respect and making decisions that are in your best interest. Many BIPOC authors have been at the forefront of this movement. Bravely tackling topics ranging from grief and loss to sex and intimacy to help foster self-love and care amongst readers.
Indigo is deeply committed to living life on-purpose, which means taking time, care, and intention throughout all aspects of life including when it comes to caring for your wellbeing and incorporating self-love in your life. The Villij shares the ideology which is why we are highlighting four books we are reading this year to foster self-love.
Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto by Tricia Hersey
In a world where we are constantly encouraged to push ourselves to work harder, be more productive, and achieve more success, Tricia Hersey (she/her), in her book Rest is Resistance: A Manifesto argues that rest is actually a form of resistance. She lobbies against the idea that taking a break and resting is lazy or unproductive,and offers that it’s radical and revolutionary. She concludes that resting is actually just going against the societal pressure to constantly do more and the systems of oppression that benefit from our never-ending work. Throughout her book she explores various forms of rest, such as self-care, leisure, and sleep, as well as the history of rest, and how the concept has been understood by different cultures and societies throughout time. She concludes and writes a refreshing and necessary reminder that rest is not just a luxury, but a crucial aspect of our lives.
Notes on Grief by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Notes on Grief by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (she/her) explores the overall experience of grieving and the ways in which death and loss can shape our lives. Through a collection of essays, poems, and reflections she writes openly and candidly about her grief following the sudden and difficult death of her father. She beautifully explores the ways in which grief can be transformative and lead us to a deeper appreciation for life and a greater sense of empathy for others. She gently invites the reader to reflect on their own experiences with grief and how the impermanence of life intricately and divinely connects us all.
All This Could Be Different by Sarah Taken Matthews
All This Could Be Different is a novel by writer Sarah Taken Matthews (she/her) that tells the story of a group of young people living, working, and dating in Milwaukee. They embark on a difficult journey where secrets come out, jobs are difficult to keep, and housing is unstable. This novel tells stories of strength, perseverance, and hope and how caring for oneself and the people around you triumphs over all external troubles.
Be Not Afraid of Love: Lessons on Fear, Intimacy, and Connection
Be Not Afraid of Love by Mimi Zhu
Be Not Afraid of Love: Lessons on Fear, Intimacy, and Connection by author Mimi Zhu (they/them) is a collection of personal essays and affirmations about her journey to re-learning love after a violent romantic relationship. They hope to help readers overcome fears and form deep, meaningful connections with others by leaning into love with softness. One of the key themes of the book is the intersections of friendship, family, and romantic love. They remind readers that the process of cultivating love is a process that deserves care, time, and intention. Mimi concludes and reminds us to, be not afraid of love, and reflect deeply on our own experiences to undo hurt and uncertainty.
Villij, how has self-love shown up in your life? What practices, tools, products, or books do you utilize when cultivating self-love? Visit your nearest Indigo store or indigo.ca to find the recommended books.
