Book Review: My Wellness Toolbox

My Wellness Toolbox by Ali Swift is a collection of the strategies that she gradually accumulated through her recovery journey after hitting her own rock bottom. Rather than preaching what does work, she shares what’s worked for her so others struggling with their mental health can get some ideas to try out for themselves. The book feels like the author is talking with rather than at the reader.

The book is short, at only 49 pages. It provides bite-sized chapters for each individual tool, making it very easy to read. Each tool is given ratings out of ten for effectiveness and ease, and an approximate cost is provided. Swift also describes how different tools can be used together, and she gives practical examples of implementation. Inspirational quotes are used to support several of the tools.

The tools include a broad range of different activities. Some take very little effort, like using essential oils. Other tools take more work but have a big potential payoff, such as cognitive behavioural therapy and working on acceptance. There are tools that can be used solo, as well as some that can be used interpersonally. Most of the tools can be used by anybody, with the notable exception of hypnobirthing.

Not all of the tools work for me, but that didn’t detract from my appreciation of the book overall. I think there’s enough of a range that there is something for everyone in this book.

While this book would probably be the most useful for people in the earlier part of their recovery journey, it still includes good ideas for anyone, as well as good reminders of the tools we may already be using. We all need a wellness toolbox, and the more tools that we can find that work for us, the better.

My Wellness Toolbox is available on Amazon (affiliate link).

I received a reviewer copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.

You can find my other book reviews here, including Ali Swift’s second book, Your Wellness Toolbox.