Best Books To Read Before Bed
A bedtime routine can add order to your life and provide a good night’s rest. Yet, as we turn into adults, we tend to slowly forget about it. Mom will eventually stop bathing and soothing you to sleep. As a grown-up, you probably don’t even have the time for a bedtime routine. Dealing with your job, hanging out with friends, and checking the latest stories on Instagram or Facebook can easily interfere with your sleep schedule.
Especially the latter. Just think about it. How many times did you lay in bed, tired after a full day, yet, instead of sleeping, you used your time to scroll through social media?
Yes, we’ve all been there. And you know what? All this is wrong! Health specialists have advised us way too many times that smart devices should stay out of the bedroom, and for a good reason. The blue light emitted by a smartphone screen can disrupt the production of melanin – the hormone responsible for regulating your circadian rhythm.
As a result, you’ll struggle to fall asleep and won’t rest properly. A quick fix and your pass to a night of good sleep is reading a good book, preferably the printed-on-paper, old-fashion kind. From inspiring books for men to self-help books to fairytales for adults, everything works.
If you haven’t read a book in a while and wonder which titles should fill your bookcases, check out this list of feel-good books you should read before bed.
AWOL On The Appalachian Trail – David Miller
A book written to inspire the adventurer in you, the AWOL on the Appalachian Trail is the story of David Miller, a software engineer who decided to quit his job and leave everything behind to fulfill his dream of hiking the Appalachian Trail. More than an inspirational book, this is a work that accurately describes the pristine scenery you can discover between the valleys and the mountains. The author also talks about the inspiration that fueled his quest, as well as the life-changing moments he experienced. In-between a travel guide and a novel, the book includes both introspections and useful passages regarding safety and gear—all in all, a captivating story about a man’s adventure and tenacity.
Simplify – Joshua Becker
From the renowned author Joshua Becker, Simplify is an inspirational book that highlights the enjoyment of living with less. So, if you’re too concerned about your worldly possessions and focus on your career a bit too much, this book could be your perfect bedtime companion. The book is about the author’s journey – together with his family – to decluttering their home and simplifying their way of life. Based on a rational approach to minimalism, the book highlights the benefits of living with less as well as the sense of freedom delivered by the lack of clutter. Undeniably, this volume can both inspire and stimulate you to find the real meaning of life by cherishing the people around you rather than your material possessions.
A Walk In The Woods – Bill Bryson
A book turned into a movie, A Walk in the Woods, is Bill Bryson’s autobiography as well as a story about courage and perseverance. The volume documents Bryson’s journey along the Appalachian Trail, together with his buddy Stephen Katz. From the difficulties experienced in the beginning to the challenges of traveling with a friend to finding and using the right hiking and camping equipment. Although written in a humorous style, the book also includes plenty of serious discussions about the trail’s history and things you can expect to see along the way.
The Art Of Racing In The Rain – Garth Stein
The New York Times’ bestseller novel The Art of Racing in the Rain is the touching story of Enzo, a dog that prepares to reincarnate as a human in his next life. Throughout his journey, Enzo helps his owner Denny Swift through the ups and downs of life, playing a key role in many circumstances. The novel not only highlights the deep connection between a dog and its owner but also aims to help readers reflect on the essential things in life.
Practical Zen: Meditation And Beyond – Julian Daizan Skinner
From Zen master Julian Daizan Skinner the Practical Zen: Meditation and Beyond is a practical guide to meditation and mindfulness techniques. Whether you’ve been too stressed out at work or try to cope with difficult situations, the guide aims to help you address any pitfalls and teach you how to achieve success. The guide is structured around the traditional teaching framework, “the two wings of a bird,” while also describing the experiences of western practitioners with this method. Described as a complete guide to Zen meditation, this bedtime-perfect book delivers deep concepts in a simple, easy to read manner – just perfect for meditation practitioners of all levels.
