Top Brain Health Reads of 2023

Welcome to a journey through the fascinating world of the human brain! If you’re anything like me, a good book is not just an escape but a portal to the vast mysteries of the mind. The brain is our most enigmatic and captivating organ, shaping our thoughts, driving our emotions, and commanding our every action (alongside the gut microbiome which sometimes is in the driver’s seat instead of the brain). Understanding the brain can be both a challenge and an adventure.

Over the past year, my peers and I have delved into a diverse range of books that explore the intricacies of the brain from various angles. Whether you’re intrigued by the psychological underpinnings of our behavior, the neurological basis of our habits, or the profound impact of mental health on our daily lives, this curated list of books offers something for every brain enthusiast.

From scientific explorations and psychological insights to practical guides on harnessing the power of the mind, each book on this list has been a beacon of knowledge, enlightening and inspiring us in equal measure. Dig in and enjoy these thought-provoking reads!

1. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

2. Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art

3. Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess: 5 Simple, Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking

4. Clear Thinking: Turning Ordinary Moments Into Extraordinary Results

5. Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence

6. Drama Free: A Guide to Managing Unhealthy Family Relationships

7. Even the Rat Was White: A Historical View of Psychology (Allyn & Bacon Classics Edition)

8. From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life

9. Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things

10. A Mind at Home with Itself: How Asking Four Questions Can Free Your Mind, Open Your Heart, and Turn Your World Around

11. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

12. The Myth of Normal: Trauma, Illness, and Healing in a Toxic Culture

13. Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity

14. The Oxygen Advantage: Simple, Scientifically Proven Breathing Techniques to Help You Become Healthier, Slimmer, Faster, and Fitter

15. The Portable Supervisor: The Essential Guide for Students and New Mental Health Professionals

16. Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain

17. The Science of Stuck: Breaking Through Inertia to Find Your Path Forward

18. The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth: Live Them and Reach Your Potential

19. The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself

20. The Awakened Brain: The New Science of Spirituality and Our Quest for an Inspired Life

21. The Awe of God: The Astounding Way a Healthy Fear of God Transforms Your Life

22. Thinking, Fast and Slow

23. Who’s in Your Room: The Secret to Creating Your Best Life

24. When Narcissism Comes to Church: Healing Your Community from Emotional and Spiritual Abuse

I hope you’ve found some titles that pique your interest and spark your curiosity. Remember, each book is a window into the vast and intricate world of our brain, offering unique insights and perspectives.

Now, I’d love to hear from you: Which of these books have you read and what was your key takeaway? Or, do you have any other recommendations for books that delve into the marvels of the human brain? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments below and keep our collective curiosity thriving!

I look forward to hearing your thoughts and discussing our favorite brain books. And I sincerely hope this list helps guide you to greater mental health, performance, and fulfillment in the year ahead.

Happy reading and exploring!