Neuro-Wellbeing & The Developing Self

When struggling with your mental health, or neuro-wellbeing, you want to find books that build you up and that you can relate to. I’m so excited to share some of my favourite reads this past summer. that have genuinely impacted how I approach neuro‑wellbeing, character psychology, and the science‑inspired themes woven into my writing.

**Fiction**

1. The Blue Castle – L. M. Montgomery

First off, I cannot recommend the book enough. Not only is it my favourite book ever, it is one of the best books following a character who truly experiences self-development as she progresses from her oppressive past into a new future. I first found this book a few years ago, when I was in a very similar mind of Valancy’s, and it completely changed how I viewed situations, and myself. I am a huge fan of literary fiction, and Montgomery not only completely conveys the mood and depth of emotion her characters are feeling, but expands them into the simplicity of the story’s delicate use of the castle motif. This book really had me thinking about my mental health, and how hard our brains work when we face difficult situations daily.

2. Mansfield Park – Jane Austen

Dubbed as one of Austen’s most psychologically astute novels, Mansfield Park had me on the edge of my seat. I will admit, it does start in a very somber mood, with not much going on until the second and third volume. However, it follows Fanny Price and her emotional struggles in a way that is immensely thought-provoking, and wholesome. In our brains, we face what’s called emotional gridlock. The immense sadness can trigger the fear center, and cause symptoms of physical pain, such as the headaches Fanny receives while struggling to conceal her care for Edmund, and managing Henry Crawford. This book is indubitably a top choice for readers looking for that deep emotion, and character development.

3. Sense and Sensibility – Jane Austen

Another famous book by Jane Austen, follows two sisters Elinor and Marianne. Elinor being sense, and Marianne being sensibility. It’s a wonderful blend of reality, connectivity, love, and heartbreak. This book demonstrates powerful emotions, feelings, and desires as the two sisters navigate how their lives are going to look like as time goes on. Without spoiling too much, it’s a very wonderful read for those who are very interested in character life and individuality.

4. Jane of Lantern Hill

Similar to Montgomery’s usual redemption stories, this book follows Jane, who for a long time believed her father was dead. She was living in the extreme riches of her cold and cruel grandmother’s house, and with her lovely, but timid mother. Until her father sends a letter claiming that she shall visit him in Prince Edward Island, Jane has no idea what it is like to experience joy or happiness in life. I highly enforce reading this book, as it opens up an wonderful example of a brain finally getting to relax. In her grandmother house, her brain was constantly on guard, referring to her fear center or amygdala, that was always watching for her grandmother’s cold Prescence or scolding nature. . Once on the island, the unexplainable nature and her father’s unwavering love filled her brain with dopamine and oxytocin, which allowed her brain’s growth centers and to finally feel safe, bright, and loved.

Thank you for reading this blog, and if you are experiencing a situation similar to any of these characters, I truly hope and believe that your redemption story is coming soon. Do not be discouraged, but know that there are always other people in the world who share your pain. Read one of these books, and I know your brain will love it!

-R.J.