Creative Fuel
A collection of books I’m reading (or reading again) for Flow State Summer.
My Flow State Summer Reading List
It wouldn’t be a season of self-study without a reading list, right? I’ve compiled all the books I’m currently reading, perusing, revisiting, or listening to via audiobook below. If the list looks daunting, please know I’m in a deep dive right now. Plus I’ve been reading them over the last few weeks! Some of them, like The Creative Act, I’ve been reading just a couple pages a day. Others like all about love I plan on starting when I’m on a flight on Wednesday.
Flow State Summer doesn’t = stress.
So take a browse through. I’ve categorized them for ease. From Creativity, to Self, to Spirit, and Signs (books that have found me serendipitously this season).
BOOKS FOR CREATIVE LIVING:
The Artist’s Way
by Julia Cameron
IYKYK because I haven’t shut up about my Artist Way experience! Heading into week 8 now, still enjoying my Morning Pages (most days). I’ve spoken to so many clients, readers, and friends who are feeling the ping to start the process. It is a BIG commitment though, so keep in mind should another season support it more!
The Creative Act
by Rick Rubin
One of those books you can open to almost any page and find something worth highlighting. It’s less about making art and more about becoming someone who pays attention. It really reminds me of the work I do as a psychic and channel, but applied to creativity.
How to Live an Artful Life
by Katy Hessel
My dear friend Holly gifted me a signed copy! She stumbled upon a bookstore on her trip to Paris and the author was signing books. She thought I needed it. She was right. It’s a daily and joyful reminder that creativity isn’t reserved for artists—it’s a way of moving through the world. This book has daily teachings from artists of every modality. Making it such an easy ritual to start or end your day and reflect on the creative mind. Trust me on this one!
Practice You
by Elena Brower
I will never ever ever shut up about this journal. The first time I ever used it was in 2017 and I have had multiple copies since. It renews my love for channeled writing each time I pick it up, and it has some of the most thoughtful prompts of any journal. It’s themed and based on the chakras, so there is a healing thread through every page.
I will speak highly of Elena Brower and her genius forever. She has an accompanying deck as well that I pull from often before client sessions.
BOOKS FOR HEALING:
No Bad Parts
by Richard C. Schwartz
Reading this to accompany my Somatic IFS certification. The model (Internal Family Systems) completely changed how I understand the inner critic, inner child, fear, and all the different parts of myself. I recommend it if you’re ready to learn more about IFS and parts work. I would recommend (always) working with a parts work therapist or facilitator. If you are simply intrigued by a new model and approach, or you’re a practitioner / facilitator yourself, it’s worth a read!
I’ve been using them as a form of study because I’m in student mode! I work with Macauley Cliffe for Parts Work personally.
Women Food and God
by Geneen Roth
Don’t let the title fool you—this book is about so much more than food. It’s really about our relationship with ourselves, our desires, our habits, and what we’re truly hungry for. I will listen to the audiobook on walks and it is profound.
BOOKS THAT FOUND ME THIS SEASON:
all about love
by bell hooks
I was speaking to my husband and his friend last weekend, who both have read teaching to transgress by bell hooks. They suggested I do the same. A few days later my friend Ashley Jones said I must read all about love, which is also by bell hooks.
I took that as a sign. I’ll be starting it on Wednesday when I’m on the plane. Will report back!
I, Lalla
written by Lal Ded
Tiny book, enormous wisdom. This book came to me by way of a meditation and goddess card pull from one of my oracle decks. I pulled a card and it shared the story of Lal Ded, a poet and mystic also known as Lalla or Lalleshwari. I immediately ordered an English translation of her poetry.
BOOKS FOR SPIRIT CONNECTION:
Opening to Channel
by Sanaya Roman
One of the books that most influenced my own intuitive practice. It’s approachable, practical, and a wonderful place to start if you’re curious about developing your intuition or connecting with inner guidance. It’s an OG - published in the 80’s.
Anatomy of the Spirit
by Caroline Myss
A classic for anyone interested in energy, intuition, and the connection between emotional and physical well-being. I find this book challenges me, and I always come away thinking differently after reading it.
You can shop all the books (& a couple others I love) through this link.
Yes, it’s through an Amazon list. No, you do NOT need to vibe with that. I endorse local library visits and use of the Libby app.
I learned of Lalla and other women mystics of India earlier this summer - I, Lalla is absolutely going in my mystic poetry book stack 🏺