New Books and Break is Coming!
Excitement in the library over a load of new books we just received! This batch had something for everyone. Ms. Kehe and I already grabbed one each and we are reading them so we can write up some recommendations. February break is right around the corner – only a week away – and it’s a great time to grab a book to take with you where ever you might be going. Here is the link to the Main Library Website and Catalog. (https://library.isb.ac.th/home)
Remember reading is statistically one of the best ways to relax.
A 2009 study at the University of Sussex found that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%. It works better and faster than other relaxation methods, such as listening to music or drinking a hot cup of tea. (“Reading for Stress Relief | Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing” 2016)
Set aside 30 minutes to read every day in a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- The book you choose doesn’t have to be on any “best-seller” list. The important thing is that the subject matter has captured your interest and will provide a space for your mind to relax in every day.
- Reading only helps reduce your stress if you pick something you enjoy that won’t upset you. Reading the news may not be the best choice if it makes you feel angry or helpless. Pick a novel where you can escape into another world. Or read about an activity that you enjoy– a hobby, travel, cooking.
- Take note of how you feel after your reading break. Have you been able to let go of some of your stressors? If you still feel overwhelmed, take our Stress Assessment to explore the source of your anxieties and take charge of your wellbeing.
Stop by the library and check out some of these great new books. We can make some recommendations as we have already read a few. We are also always keen to hear about what you are reading or what recommenations you have for us as well!
Take care and have a great weekend
The Main Library Staff
“Reading for Stress Relief | Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing.” 2016. Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing. 2016. https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/reading-stress-relief#:~:text=Reading%20can%20be%20a%20wonderful,the%20stress%20of%20everyday%20life.&text=A%202009%20study%20at%20the,a%20hot%20cup%20of%20tea..
Bell’s Recommendation
BOOK REVIEW! Pachinko by Min Jin Lee
The last couple of books I’ve read were really long and I wasn’t able to get through another one before today, so, here is one that isn’t super new but still an amazing story. Pachinko follows a young Korean girl who finds love. Unforatunately this is a time where things are traditionally arranged for young people and adding to her problems is the fact that she has issues in her own life making things complicated. It is a beautifully written book, where you feel like you can see the locations, the beach, the pachinko parlors, and more. It is a story that shines a light on the conflict some face when tradition runs into real world problems.
