Wellness With Her Club

Daily writing prompt

List three books that have had an impact on you. Why?

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I am such an avid reader and there are  a myriad of books that have had an impact on my life but these are my top 3 picks.

1. “Women Who Run with the Wolves,” written by Clarissa Pinkola Estés, has had a profound impact on my life, encouraging me to embrace my authentic self, reclaim my power, and reconnect with my wild and intuitive nature. 

Here are some ways in which the book changed my life:

• Embracing Feminine Wisdom: “Women Who Run with the Wolves” explores the power and wisdom found in ancient myths, fairy tales, and folklore, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming and valuing feminine intuition, creativity, and spirituality. The book helped me recognize and honor the unique qualities and strengths that come with being a woman.
• Healing and Transformation: The book delves into the process of healing and personal transformation, providing insights and guidance on navigating through life’s challenges and traumas. It offered tools and stories that inspired me to embark on my own journey of self-discovery, self-acceptance, and healing.
• Reconnecting with Nature and the Wild: “Women Who Run with the Wolves” emphasizes the significance of reconnecting with the natural world and the untamed aspects of our being. It encouraged me to embrace your wild and instinctual nature, fostering a deeper connection with nature and recognizing its transformative power.
• Empowerment and Liberation: Through the exploration of myths and stories, the book aims to liberate women from societal expectations, cultural conditioning, and limiting beliefs. It inspired me to question and challenge societal norms, redefine my own identity, and embrace my authentic self, allowing me to step into my power and live a more fulfilling life.
• Honoring Intuition and Creativity: “Women Who Run with the Wolves” highlights the importance of listening to and trusting your intuition as a source of wisdom and guidance. It encourages the exploration of creativity as a means of self-expression and personal empowerment. The book inspired me to tap into my intuitive abilities, embrace my creative passions, and live a more authentic and fulfilling life.
• Community and Sisterhood: The book fosters a sense of community and sisterhood among women, emphasizing the power of collective support and shared experiences. It encouraged me to seek and nurture relationships with like-minded women, creating a supportive network that celebrates and empowers each other.

The book’s teachings resonated with me offering guidance, inspiration, and validation on my journey towards self-discovery, empowerment, and embracing my true nature as a woman.

2. “The Alchemist,” written by Paulo Coelho, also had a profound impact on me, inspiring me to explore my personal journey and pursue my dreams. Here are some ways in which “The Alchemist” changed my life:

• Following Your Personal Legend: The central theme of “The Alchemist” revolves around discovering and fulfilling one’s Personal Legend, the true purpose and calling in life. The book encourages readers to reflect on their own dreams and desires and take the necessary steps to pursue them, even in the face of obstacles or doubt. It inspired me to have a clearer vision of my goals and motivated me to actively work towards achieving them.
• Embracing Change and Taking Risks: “The Alchemist” emphasizes the importance of embracing change and taking risks in order to grow and find fulfillment. It encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, face my fears, and pursue new opportunities or adventures in my life. The book promotes the idea that transformation and self-discovery often occur when we are willing to leave familiar territory and embark on new journeys.
• Trusting in the Journey: Throughout the story, the protagonist encounters setbacks, challenges, and moments of uncertainty. “The Alchemist” teaches us the importance of trusting in the journey, even when the path seems unclear or difficult. It helped me to develop a sense of faith and resilience, enabling me to navigate the ups and downs of life with a positive mindset.
• Connecting with the Soul of the World: “The Alchemist” introduces the concept of the Soul of the World, a universal force that guides us people towards our destiny. The book inspired me to cultivate a deeper connection with the world around me, to pay attention to signs and synchronicities, and to trust in the interconnectedness of all things.
• Appreciating the Present Moment: The book emphasizes the significance of living in the present moment and finding joy and fulfillment in the journey itself, rather than solely focusing on the destination. It encouraged me to embrace mindfulness and appreciate the beauty and lessons found in each day.

3. A very unexpected addition to this list is ‘Harry Potter Series by J.K Rowling’. It was my best friend all through puberty and provided an enjoyable escape from reality.

• Imagination and Escapism: Harry Potter introduced me to a rich and detailed magical world that sparked my imagination and provided an escape from reality. It allowed me to immerse myself in a captivating story and explore a realm of possibilities beyond my everyday life.
• Love for Reading: The series played a crucial role in instilling or reigniting a love for reading in most people including myself. Harry Potter’s engaging storytelling and relatable characters motivated countless readers to delve into other books and discover the joy of reading.
• Moral Lessons and Values: Throughout the series, Harry Potter addresses important themes such as friendship, bravery, loyalty, and the fight against injustice. The characters’ struggles and triumphs resonated with me, teaching me some valuable life lessons and promoting positive values.
• Community and Connection: Harry Potter created a vast and passionate fan community that brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds. Fans formed connections through online platforms, events, and discussions, fostering a sense of belonging and shared enthusiasm. The series created a bond among people who found solace and friendship in their mutual love for Harry Potter.
• Empowerment and Resilience: The journey of Harry Potter and his friends portrays the power of resilience, determination, and the ability to overcome obstacles. I drew inspiration from the characters’ courage and perseverance, translating those lessons into my own life.
• Social Commentary and Empathy: The series touches on various social issues, including prejudice, discrimination, and the abuse of power. Through its narrative, Harry Potter encouraged me to question injustice and empathize with those who may be marginalized or mistreated.