March 16th 2017

I was 10 years old when I asked for my mothers library pass and borrowed my first novels. I had read every book in the entire childrens department and was craving more. The first adult novel I read was Parfume by Patrick Süskind. More followed.

I have always loved reading. I have always loved the broadening of the mind, the learning and the empathy it brings forth. Books inspire me. Other peoples lives, worlds and ideas inspire me.

There was a period in my life when I read very little. I felt I did not have the inner stillness, patience or time to dedicate myself to reading a full book. There was a bit too much doing. And a bit too little being, that’s needed to sit and let your mind wander. When I started to create space in my life for things other than work and husband, my craving for reading reappeared. Reading has, again, proven to be a great source of joy and inspiration.

Today I’ll share the three books I’m reading right now. Hope they will broaden, enrich and inspire you too!

Love,

Kyra.

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BOOKS I’M READING RIGHT NOW

MOMENT by Satsuki Shibuya

MOMENT is a beautiful collection of verses and artwork by spiritual thinker and (watercolor) artist Satsuki. The work of Satsuki first caught my eye, on instagram, about two to three years ago. I loved her minimal yet organic Japanese aesthetics and the words and thoughts she included in her posts. They touch your soul, take you up and make you wonder. They are like a teaspoon that gently stirs your inner most being. I have wanted to own a painting or work of art by Satsuki ever since. Last month my dream came true, when I received her brand new book MOMENT. It sits on my nightstand and every evening, just before sleep, I read one verse. I lay down and do some meditation and let the words sink in. It is a wonderfully mindful end to the day. Rituals like these help me to connect to the essence. Dutchies: I just learned MOMENT is for sale at RESTORED.

THE ART OF DISCARDING by Nagisa Tatsumi

This is the book that inspired Marie Kondo to start on her path of tidying up and, eventually, write her world renowned best-seller. The art of discarding offers practical inspiration to learn how to get rid of the stuff that’s of no meaning. It is about creating space for what’s essential and true in your life. I love how the book is clearly rooted in Japanese culture, and by reading it I am not only inspired to create space daily but also learn about the psychology of holding on and the wisdom Japanese culture holds. Dutchies: there’s a dutch translation available HERE.

THE MYSTERY OF LIFE by Jan Paul Schutten

This wildly illustrated childrens book proves to be a joy to adults too! Writer Jan Paul Schutten shares his knowledge regarding the miracle of life and the wonder of evolution. What is life? How did it begin? How does everything alive reproduce and why does all that’s alive die? This focus and tone makes the book scientific and philosophical at the same time. And let’s not forget it’s terribly fun too. Dutchies: The original is in Dutch and available HERE.

Photos, recipe and text (c) (copyright) kyra. at kyra’s kitchen.