Book Reviews

Abstract

McGonigal K. Avery; 2021. Paperback; 272 pages.Are you one of those people who need a little extra motivation to get off the couch and move? Reading A The Joy of Movement might provide that extra motivation. We all know that exercise improves mental and physical health, but McGonigal adds 1 more important element to be aware of—there is joy to be found in moving. This joy is not only for the avid runner but for anyone who just moves. In The Joy of Movement, McGonigal describes the extraordinary physiological mechanisms that lead to improved psychological health.Some of the most important new information regarding exercise is about the endocannabinoid system. New research has shown that the “runner’s high” is not due to endorphins but to endocannabinoids. These cannabis-like molecules are produced by our bodies in response to 20 minutes of medium-intensity exercise such as fast walking, jogging, or swimming. The molecules are small enough to cross the blood-brain barrier, producing positive psychological benefits such as reduced anxiety, contentment, and feeling more connected to others.One of the most interesting tidbits of information in the book is about the correlation between the number of steps you take each day and anxiety and depression. According to McGonigal, research shows that feelings of anxiety and depression along with diminished life satisfaction are associated with an average of less than 5649 steps per day. This fact should concern all of us, because most Americans average only 4774 steps per day. If you are unable to walk as many as 10 000 steps per day, it is good to know that at least 6000 steps can help elevate your mood and thoughts.Last but not least, McGonigal explains why so many of us hate going to the gym: Our brains prefer the outdoors or “green exercise.” According to McGonigal, exercising outdoors provides the immediate benefit of allowing our brains to disengage, resulting in feelings of selflessness, a lack of self-consciousness, and a strong sense of connection to others and nature. Being active outdoors also produces a sense of refuge and a feeling of being sheltered or protected—an effect similar to that produced by meditation.The Joy of Movement is a worthwhile read, especially if you are looking for the latest on exercise neuroscience.Gordon J, West D. Wiley; 2019. Hardcover; 112 pages.Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean? According to Gordon and West, life can weaken us, harden us, or release a power in us that can help us transform our environment. The Coffee Bean is a quick and easy read, with a powerful message told through the story of Abe. Abe is a young man who brings the lesson of the coffee bean with him through school, the military, and the business world. He transforms his environment rather than letting it change him.Knapp R. LWW; 2018. Paperback; 416 pages.This updated second edition offers a plain-language guide to providing care to patients with a variety of respiratory disorders. The author uses an engaging style and humor along with her expertise to provide the essential information. The topics covered and the ease of reading make this book an ideal reference for new nurses or nurses new to the content. The topics covered include respiratory assessment, airway maintenance, oxygen delivery, ventilatory support, treating infection and inflammation, and chest drainage systems.Oluo I. Seal Press; 2019. Paperback; 255 pages.So You Want to Talk About Race is a book that can help the reader engage in conversations and actions to address racism. Through the lenses of her expertise and lived experiences, Oluo explores concepts associated with race such as racism, privilege, intersectionality, microaggressions, and the model minority myth. She provides a unique perspective that may help a person of privilege better understand how small actions can have a great impact on someone who has been affected by systemic racism. Oluo also suggests boundaries for people of color when engaging in these conversations. So You Want to Talk About Race is a quick and compelling book; it provides an overview that may highlight areas that the reader may wish to seek additional information about. A discussion guide is included, should you wish to have additional conversations with a group. Increasing your awareness can help you act intentionally to address racism.