Feelgood reads

Start 2020 with a smile thanks to these guides to living a better life

AMY LANE

I Can Run: Your Ultimate Guide To Running Well Far

What’s it about? This is a BS-free book on every aspect of running. Why should we trust her? She’s the digital editor of Women’s Health, creator of the Well Far running podcast and has completed two marathons. Biggest lesson: Ditch your ego. “For every new milestone there will be a time when you’ll be overtaken by a 14-year-old at Parkrun.” Advice we’ll ignore: “Put your kit on the radiator for a 6am Lycra hug.” Um, bed still wins… Out 19th Mar

FRANKIE BRIDGE

Open: Why Asking For Help Can Save Your Life

What’s it about? Part memoir, part manual, the former Saturdays singer recounts her mental-health journey. Why should we trust her? Aged 23, Bridge was hospitalised after suffering with anxiety, depression and panic attacks, and is a Mind ambassador. Biggest lesson: “I never regard people as being recovered until [their sleep], too, has normalised,” says psychiatrist Dr Mike McPhillips. Advice we’ll ignore: Nothing – every bit’s gold-standard. Out 6th Feb

ALISA VITTI

In The Flo

What’s it about? Covering nutrition, work and stress, this is about syncing your menstrual cycle with your lifestyle. Why should we trust her? Vitti’s a nutritionist and women’s hormone expert, and the founder of a virtual health centre, Floliving.com. Biggest lesson: When to ask for a pay rise. “Oestrogen surges during ovulation, which can boost mental sharpness and communication skills.” Advice we’ll ignore: The woo-woo stuff like “we hold back our potent life force”. Er, OK. Out 23rd Jan

MADELEINE OLIVIA

Minimal: How To Simplify Your Life And Live Sustainably

What’s it about? How to be a green queen in all areas of your life. Why should we trust her? Olivia, an environmental influencer, has over 446k YouTube subscribers. She’s also got her own sustainable clothing line. Biggest lesson: Mix one part water, one part vinegar and 10 drops of essential oils to make cleaning spray. Advice we’ll ignore: “Small amount of shampoo left in an old bottle? Put it in the shower to use up.” Well, duh. Out 9th Jan