Book Recommendations -Persistent Pain & Health
Over the years, both through my professional work and my own personal experiences, I have been interested in the complex relationship between the mind, body, and long-term health conditions. Many people I work with live with ongoing pain, fatigue, or health challenges that can feel confusing, frustrating, and sometimes very isolating.
Along the way, I have come across a number of books that I would recommend to people who are exploring the connection between mental health, psychology and healing the body. These books may help you better understand how your mind state can influence physical health, and have ideas and techniques to support you in changing your relationship with dis-ease, and, where possible, move towards longer-term healing. Here are several that you may also find interesting:
How to Liberate Yourself from Pain
Human Givens Institute
This book introduces the Human Givens approach to understanding and managing pain. It explores how the brain processes pain and how emotional stress, unmet needs, and patterns of thinking can influence how pain is experienced. The book provides clear explanations alongside practical techniques designed to help people regain a sense of control and reduce the impact that pain has on daily life.
Mindfulness for Health
Vidyamala Burch & Danny Penman
This book offers a practical and compassionate approach to managing pain, illness, and stress through mindfulness. Rather than trying to fight or eliminate discomfort, it teaches skills that can help people relate to their experience differently. Many people find that developing mindful awareness can reduce the additional suffering that often accompanies physical symptoms, helping them live more fully even when pain or illness is present.
How to Be Sick
Toni Bernhard
Written from the author’s own experience of living with chronic illness, this book offers thoughtful and compassionate guidance for navigating long-term health challenges. Rather than focusing solely on curing illness, it explores ways to cultivate peace, acceptance, and resilience while living with ongoing symptoms. Many readers find it reassuring and supportive when facing the emotional and psychological impact of chronic health conditions.
How Your Mind Can Heal Your Body
David R. Hamilton
This book explores the powerful connection between thoughts, emotions, and physical health. Drawing on research from neuroscience and psychoneuroimmunology, it explains how the mind can influence healing processes within the body. The book offers practical exercises and insights that encourage readers to harness the mind’s natural capacity to support wellbeing.
