Field Guide to the Soul
An Inspired Activity Book to Help You Find Peace, Purpose & Connection through the Magical Teachings of Nature
Mandy Ford
Better Day Books
My introductory thoughts
Life matters, yet it is so easy to let the rush in and the rest out. Through this title, Ford endeavours to suggest ways we can let the natural surroundings - our environment which has been there all along, into our lives. A creative title, with thought provoking activities, often which can be filled out ‘in book’. As the author suggests at the beginning, this is a book she hopes we will ‘make our own.’ As a writer and avid reader, this brought me down the thought pathway of our age - we as people rush, we might read a magazine, or a paperback and then off it goes, to the next person or rubbish bin. But what would happen if we had put a part of our personal goods on the page? Would we be as quick to let it go? By creating this sense of space within the text for our own self reflections and answers, Ford makes us take ownership. In the small terms, of this literally book - yet the wide term is obviously the self - ourselves.
We are human, as she keeps telling us in this title - so can we tap into what that means?
How the book is set out
There are twelve main chapters, all of which have some similar traits, for example, a lot is said on affirmations, meditations and beliefs. Constant reflection is driven through and through. It made me wonder about the authors point for writing - what was her own backstory as it were? After some research via her website (www.mandyford.co) I found nothing of evidence - just her desire to help others feel seen and loved.
What are the chapters about? They are mostly on general words, such as ‘Hope’ - so a consistent positive vibe. In each chapter, there is always a detailed information explaining what it is about, a reflection allowance for us and affirmations or other activities.
What this book is not and what it is
No book will make a person, but a book can make a better person - yes you. No self care, help, art, creative, therapy will heal for all times sake, but it would spark something within us which lightens our own narratives stage.
Concluding Sentiments
Even the most tough of us (or at least outwardly) will need some soothing or reassurance at some point - we have a gift that is free - nature. So let it be the catalyst and turn your own story around, by using Fords guide.