Looking back on 2024, I’m filled with gratitude for the books and podcasts that inspired me along the way. Each one brought something special—sparking new ideas, deepening my passion for yoga, and encouraging personal growth. Some even shaped the way I approach my yoga business! And then there were the things that gave me a much-needed escape from the busyness of life—fictional books and crafty moments that let me step away from reality and simply enjoy.

In this blog, I’m sharing a roundup of these meaningful experiences. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, a little creative spark, or just something to help you unwind, I hope you’ll find something here to brighten your year ahead.

BOOKS

FICTION

Let's start with a list of fiction books that swept me away this year, offering the perfect escape, and allowing me to get out of my head and indulge in a good story. I've linked the title of each book to the write-up on the Good Reads website for you to learn more about it. This list is not in any particular order.

The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart by Holly Ringland

I love books that entertain you with a great story while at the same time making you think. This is one of those books. I really enjoyed this read and found it a heartfelt read.

Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister

This mystery/thriller is a real page-turner. I loved it and blew through it so quickly that I couldn't put it down. I needed to find out what the heck was going on!

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

Loved, loved, loved this book! Guess what, it's another historical fiction :) Such an interesting read that I also couldn't put down.

Invisible Girl by Lisa Jewell

This book is definitely in my top 3 favourite reads of the year. It's a mystery/thriller that had me sucked in right from the start. I loved the character development and the depth of the topics.

The Maid by Nita Prose

What a fantastic book! Another one I devoured quickly and didn't want to end. I adored the main character, her struggle with social skills blended with a mystery to solve was such a unique blend.

I Found You by Lisa Jewell

I'm a big fan of Lisa Jewell's novels and this one did not disappoint. It's a great mix of mystery and romance. A lovely book to curl up with on a cold winter day!

The Women by Kristin Hannah

Although this wasn't my favourite Krtisin Hannah book, I still enjoyed it. I love how she highlights the role of strong, powerful women during real historical events, showcasing their resilience, courage, and the profound impact they had on shaping the world around them.

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek by Kim Michele Richardson

Another historical fiction book with an interesting story and a heroin I fell in love with.

The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis

I discovered Fiona Davis this year and Magnolia Palace was the second book of hers I read. I liked this one a touch more. It's another historical fiction (you can tell I like those) with a good mystery to solve.

NON-FICTION

Here’s a collection of non-fiction books I enjoyed last year, covering memoirs, self-help, and health topics—each one offering valuable insights, personal growth, and plenty of moments that left me inspired and thinking deeply.

Rethink Your Position: Reshape Your Exercise, Yoga, and Everyday Movement, One Part at a Time by Katy Bowman

I've been following Katy Bowman for a couple of years now and I love her approach to movement. The first half of this book in particular was eye-opening and has influenced my movement classes.

Falling Backwards by Jann Arden

I'm a big fan of Jann Arden's music and I love her personality. She's such an amazing story teller and I can't believe I haven't read her biography until now. I've read other books by her and recently came upon this book and am so glad I read it.

Good Morning, I Love You: Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Practices to Rewire Your Brain for Calm, Clarity, and Joy by Shauna Shapiro

I read this book at the beginning of the year and I'm glad I'm doing this review because I'm going to read it again to refresh my memory. I know I got a lot of inspiration from it and it inspired a couple of yoga practices while I was reading it.

The New Menopause: Navigating Your Path Through Hormonal Change with Purpose, Power, and Facts by Mary Claire Haver, MD

As I continue to learn more about my body during this stage of life, I'm eating up as many resources as possible. This is one of those resources that I enjoyed and would highly recommend to other women.

The Luminous Self: Sacred Yogic Practices and Rituals to Remember Who You Are by Tracee Stanley

Tracee Stanley teaches Restorative Yoga and Yoga Nidra meditation. She has such a beautiful, relaxing voice that listening to her audiobook was like doing one of her meditations. She is incredible and this book inspired many yoga practices and meditations.

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

OK, not the nicest title but if you read the book you'll understand the shocking title. This memoir was well-written, humorous and inspiring.

Rejection Proof: How I Beat Fear and Became Invincible Through 100 Days of Rejection by Jia Jiang

As a people pleaser, this book was a must-read for me and it gave me some ideas to consider for myself to get comfortable with rejection.

PODCASTS

Here’s a roundup of podcasts that kept me company this year—whether I was looking for inspiration, learning something new, or simply enjoying a good laugh, these shows never failed to deliver. I didn't include the business or yoga teacher podcasts but if those are of interest to you let me know and I'll share those that I follow.

Zoe - Science and Nutrition

My Accountability Buddy, also a Yoga Teacher, introduced me to this podcast and I'm so grateful as I have become obsessed with listening to every episode. I'm learning so much! I've learned more about menopause, gut health, nutrition and so much more!

Old Chicks Know Sh*t - Real stories from real women who are redefining midlife in a youth-obsessed culture.

What a great name for a podcast! I've been listening for a few years now and I continue to enjoy Jennifer's interviews.

Mel Robbins - Motivation and Health

I was hesitant to put this on my list as I'm not a faithful follower. I find she puts out more than I can consume. I also don't love the '5 things to X' type of approach, however, I know it's good click-bate. I check-in periodically and have found some really powerful episodes. Here are a few highlights:

• Interview with Dr. Gabor Maté
• Interview with Gastrointestinal Doctor about gut health
• Interview about balancing hormones in menopause

Fly on the Wall with Dana Carvey and David Spade

These two are so funny and together make a great podcast. Many good laughs from this one!

Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson

It's mostly Ted Danson interviewing other famous people and Woody Harrelson sometimes joins him. There are some laughs but there are also a lot of deep moments. Ted and Woody are interesting people and great interviewers.

What were your favourite books and podcasts in 2024?

Please share them with me, I'd love to check them out.