Books at the intersection of mindfulness, somatic therapy, and embodied healing work
For Beginners
Start with these three books to build a foundational understanding:
Waking the Tiger (Levine) - Introduction to somatic healing
What My Bones Know (Foo) - Personal perspective on healing
The Body Keeps the Score (van der Kolk) - Comprehensive overview of trauma
For Practitioners
Deepen clinical knowledge with:
Trauma and Recovery (Herman) - Clinical framework
In an Unspoken Voice (Levine) - Advanced theory
The Polyvagal Theory (Porges) - Neurobiological foundations
Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness (Treleaven) - Safe meditation practices
For Spiritual/Contemplative Approach
Integrate meditation and Buddhist psychology with trauma healing:
Radical Acceptance (Tara Brach) - Buddhist psychology meets trauma work
When Things Fall Apart (Pema Chödrön) - Working with groundlessness and fear
A Path with Heart (Jack Kornfield) - Meditation, compassion, and emotional healing
Radical Compassion (Tara Brach) - RAIN practice for difficult emotions
For Social Justice Work
Connect trauma to collective healing:
My Grandmother’s Hands (Menakem) - Racialized trauma
The Myth of Normal (Maté) - Cultural context
Trauma and Recovery (Herman) - Political dimensions
Bookstore Information
Books Are Magic
Cobble Hill Location: 225 Smith Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Brooklyn Heights Location: 122 Montague Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Website: https://www.booksaremagic.net/
Phone: (718) 246-2665
Hours: 10am-6pm daily
WORD Bookstores
Greenpoint Location: 126 Franklin Street, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Website: https://wordbookstores.com/
Phone: (718) 383-0096
Hours: 10am-7pm daily