BE GOOD TO YOU

A psychotherapist’s self-help book offers a variety of tools to help women overcome pain, anxiety, and depression.

In an introduction, Schoen (Buddha Betrayed, 2013, etc.) frames this book as a healing manual for women, who, she says, too often “give away too much of their energy to others, and neglect their own purpose and desire.” She also suggests that such healing is particularly important “in a time where feminine qualities like empathy, inclusivity and wisdom are urgently needed.” The pages that follow explore stresses and self-doubts that are common to many women and present ways to make positive changes. Module 1, “Healing and Calming the Hurt Mind,” outlines how strong belief can influence one’s view of the world and of oneself. Module 2, “Resilience & Empowerment,” suggests that meditation and other cognitive techniques may be effective in improving body image, financial well-being, and relationships with others. Module 3, “Transforming,” encourages women to find ways to “step up and into your power.” Sections of explanatory text are followed by workbook exercises, which include questions such as “What are your beliefs about intimate relationships?” and “When in the past have you made decisions that showed self respect?” Many sections also include links to online audio-meditation narratives (not reviewed). Schoen’s style is compassionate and conversational, and she offers helpful insights into the causes of painful and destructive emotions. Although some readers may find her references to “superpowers that most women possess simply because we are female” to be overly gendered, she convincingly analyzes the cultural tendency of women to direct their caretaking energies outward. She uses examples from scientific studies and evolving psychological theories to effectively support her ideas, and the workbook sections allow readers to immediately apply learned concepts to their own lives.

A useful guide for women that focuses on compassion and empathy.