Reading has so many health benefits, but often it’s hard to find the time to sit down with a good book. We’re here to make it easier, with wellness approved book recommendations and why we loved them. Did you read one of our suggestions? Let us know what you thought!
I think it’s safe to say that Earth Day doesn’t quite get its due as a holiday. On April 22 while many of us were warding off the sunday scaries, I was enjoying the Yankees (of course) and reveling in the layered brilliance of The Magical Mindful Day.
The Magical Mindful Day is a new book aimed at helping children (of all ages) discover the wonderful world of mindfulness through the eyes of the story’s young protagonist Gaby. While taking in a day at the beach with her stuffed cat Baba, Gaby is approached by a gentle, wise cat named Oreo. Oreo takes Gaby on a journey of mindfulness and awareness of the world around her, all the while helping Gaby see the inter-connectedness of all Earth’s beings.
The story in and of itself is great for children but what I found most interesting is the story of its creator. The Magical Mindful Day is informed by the incredible back story of its author (social worker & therapist) Deborah Salazar Shapiro. Salazar Shapiro uses both her experiences as a child in El Salvador during periods of environmental and political unrest with her later experiences as a mother helping her children see the benefits of caring for the Earth and all living beings. And with that kind of back story, it’s no wonder that I found myself walking away inspired to both be more mindful and encourage others to stop and take a look at the world around them when they can.
The Magical Mindful Day is for EVERYONE
The Magical Mindful Day, I think, works on multiple levels. Not only does it help kids understand the riches of our environment and our need to look for ways to sustain Mother Earth, but the story also communicates the benefits of mindfulness and awareness of one’s self in said environment. This awareness is something I often work on with my mindfulness coaching clients in their day-to-day lives. The story also speaks to how kindness and compassion help make our world a much better place for every being, and that’s something that I fully support.
For more information The Magical Mindful Day, visit www.TheMagicalMindfulDay.com. The book is available in both English and Spanish on the website and at Amazon.
Author: Jor-El
Jor-El is Co-founder of Viva Wellness and a foodie and film buff. He most often writes about mental health, relationships, food and mindfulness. When he’s not busy working, he typically can be found lounging or walking around NYC with his pup Nomi.
