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Gentle: Rest More, Stress Less, and Live the Life You Actually Want
From the author of Soulful Simplicity and Project 333, a collection of 30 practices to overcome chronic overwhelm, cultivate self-compassion, and find permission to do less—perfect for readers of Rest is Resistance and Wintering.
Written by minimalism expert and celebrated author Courtney Carver, Gentle is the “don’t do it all” self-help book you need to live with less stress and more ease, less overwhelm and more joy by uncovering the Gentle You.
Grounded in self-compassion and a fierce commitment to less, becoming the Gentle You isn’t about taking the easy road. It’s a practice of real self-care that, over time, will soothe your nervous system and strengthen your relationships.
Organized into three parts—Rest, Less, and Rise—30 challenges and simple practices will help readers radically and (yes) gently shift their pace, headspace, and heart.
It’s time to find strength in your softness, fierceness in your flexibility, and to finally rise—not by pushing through but by connecting with the Gentle You, standing in your light and honoring the person you are.
Written by minimalism expert and celebrated author Courtney Carver, Gentle is the “don’t do it all” self-help book you need to live with less stress and more ease, less overwhelm and more joy by uncovering the Gentle You.
Grounded in self-compassion and a fierce commitment to less, becoming the Gentle You isn’t about taking the easy road. It’s a practice of real self-care that, over time, will soothe your nervous system and strengthen your relationships.
Organized into three parts—Rest, Less, and Rise—30 challenges and simple practices will help readers radically and (yes) gently shift their pace, headspace, and heart.
It’s time to find strength in your softness, fierceness in your flexibility, and to finally rise—not by pushing through but by connecting with the Gentle You, standing in your light and honoring the person you are.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published February 18, 2025
182 people are currently reading
14.8k people want to read
About the author
Courtney Carver
13 books340 followersCourtney Carver writes things. She wrote a book called Soulful Simplicity and the simplicity blog, bemorewithless.com. She shares things that make her laugh and cry on Instagram (@bemorewithless). She doesn't know her Myers Briggs Type but she knows she's an introvert because she needs to be free from humans several times a day (cats and dogs are always welcome). Aside from her seasonal wardrobe, she doesn't count her things.
Carver doesn't have an impressive degree, awards, or a big, fancy home full of stuff. Instead, she selectively surrounds herself with her favorite things and people she loves. She does work she truly cares about, goes on adventures (in the world or in her own backyard) and likes chai lattes with almond milk while reading or writing.
Her new book, Project 333, The Minimalist Fashion Challenge That Proves Less Really is So Much More will help you create a capsule wardrobe and a beautiful life.
Carver doesn't have an impressive degree, awards, or a big, fancy home full of stuff. Instead, she selectively surrounds herself with her favorite things and people she loves. She does work she truly cares about, goes on adventures (in the world or in her own backyard) and likes chai lattes with almond milk while reading or writing.
Her new book, Project 333, The Minimalist Fashion Challenge That Proves Less Really is So Much More will help you create a capsule wardrobe and a beautiful life.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
November 25, 2024
If I’m being honest I am not really a self help reader type of girl, but right now things seem off. I dove in and was shocked about how I felt with the idea of being Gentler… I am a late 40’s woman who takes on way to much and gets anxious when it just doesn’t come out the way I wanted or hoped. So now with some new thought processes and new ideas of how to be Gentler on myself and possibly those around me that trigger my Menopausal tendencies to want to cry, I maybe able to tackle the new year of 2025 with some better optimism.
February 11, 2025
This is the perfect book to pick up when life is overwhelming and you need a gentle hand to help you get yourself to a peaceful place. Gentle takes you through three phases (rest, less, rise) and breaks each one down into steps. Even better, if you don't have the capacity for those steps, there is a teeny tiny step option and an affirmation at the end of each chapter.
I especially liked the rest section, as that's what I struggle with the most. I think this book would best be read by taking it one chapter a week and using that chapter as a motivator or meditation for the week.
Thanks to Netgalley and Balance for the e-ARC!
I especially liked the rest section, as that's what I struggle with the most. I think this book would best be read by taking it one chapter a week and using that chapter as a motivator or meditation for the week.
Thanks to Netgalley and Balance for the e-ARC!
March 4, 2025
The perfect information I needed in this moment. I appreciated the structure of this book and I found either a good reminder or a new piece of advice or information that I could put into use easily. The author reads the audiobook and her voice is calmly and soothing - an added plus!
February 25, 2025
I have gotten productivity down to a science. I know how to get things done. What I don’t know how to do is rest, which is why I picked up Courtney Carver’s new self-help and awareness guide, Gentle. They say that you do not know what you do not know, and I did not know how much I needed this book.
Divided into three sections - Rest, Less, and Rise - Courtney takes readers through the process of living a more gentle life. This book is filled with guiding principles and steps you can take to work toward a gentler way of being.
As someone who does tasks from the moment I wake up to the time I go to bed, I appreciated Courtney giving me permission NOT to do one more thing, even when I am perfectly capable of doing ten more things. I internalized Courtney’s wisdom when she shared that whenever she is feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or stressed, the answer is always less. Don’t add more to your life - rather, take some things away.
These are just some of the insights you can find in this inspiring guide to living a gentler life.
Divided into three sections - Rest, Less, and Rise - Courtney takes readers through the process of living a more gentle life. This book is filled with guiding principles and steps you can take to work toward a gentler way of being.
As someone who does tasks from the moment I wake up to the time I go to bed, I appreciated Courtney giving me permission NOT to do one more thing, even when I am perfectly capable of doing ten more things. I internalized Courtney’s wisdom when she shared that whenever she is feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or stressed, the answer is always less. Don’t add more to your life - rather, take some things away.
These are just some of the insights you can find in this inspiring guide to living a gentler life.
March 9, 2025
When I think of a standard, run-of-the-mill self-help book, Gentle by Courtney Carver is exactly what comes to mind. It’s surface-level and simplistic, with some solid nuggets of insight, but overall, it lacks depth.
That said, I do believe there’s an audience for this book, and based on the reviews, plenty of readers have found value in it. If this was a book that resonated with you—awesome!
What I Liked:
✔️ Short, digestible chapters.
✔️ Clear calls to action, making it easy to apply the concepts.
✔️ Personal examples that added a relatable touch.
What I Disliked:
❌ Some content may not be neurodivergent-friendly.
❌ A bit too surface-level for my taste.
❌ Repetitive in parts.
❌ While I liked the idea of giving readers “permission” to rest and slow down, the actual permission slip felt a little childish.
Overall, Gentle is a light and accessible read, but if you’re looking for deeper, more nuanced self-help, this one might not hit the mark
That said, I do believe there’s an audience for this book, and based on the reviews, plenty of readers have found value in it. If this was a book that resonated with you—awesome!
What I Liked:
✔️ Short, digestible chapters.
✔️ Clear calls to action, making it easy to apply the concepts.
✔️ Personal examples that added a relatable touch.
What I Disliked:
❌ Some content may not be neurodivergent-friendly.
❌ A bit too surface-level for my taste.
❌ Repetitive in parts.
❌ While I liked the idea of giving readers “permission” to rest and slow down, the actual permission slip felt a little childish.
Overall, Gentle is a light and accessible read, but if you’re looking for deeper, more nuanced self-help, this one might not hit the mark
March 12, 2025
This book exceeded all my expectations, inspiring me to explore ways to incorporate its rituals into my own life. It offers a gentle, intentional approach to transforming everyday moments, making the mundane feel meaningful. One of my favorite takeaways was the idea of creating a “little Saturday,” a simple yet powerful way to focus on the present and cultivate a life filled with grace, joy, and self-connection. I truly savored every word, allowing myself the time to absorb its wisdom fully. This book has the potential to be life-changing—its small, actionable steps make transformation feel accessible rather than overwhelming. A must-read for anyone looking to bring more intention into their daily life!
March 2, 2025
I work hard at living Gently so I feel like that nothing was super like new to me, but it was written in a way I didn't hate (which I often do for "self help") and was easy to read and a good reminder of ways to slow down.
February 25, 2025
This book was the right timing for me. It's not meant to be read quickly but instead Courtney Carver offers gentle practices and ideas of rest between chapters and sections. I love her actionable tips and permission slips at the end of each chapter. This book is a great reminder to slow down in life.
*I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review*
*I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review*
January 26, 2025
I've been on a self-help reading spree lately, and "Gentle" by Courtney Carver is a true standout. This book is a revelation – the kind everyone needs, even if they don't realize it.
I'm the type who constantly juggles to-do lists and struggles to switch off after work. My mind races with "what ifs" and how I can be more productive. "Gentle" is a much-needed antidote to this relentless cycle. It's a powerful reminder to prioritize self-compassion and break free from the pressure to constantly do more.
It's crucial to remember that stress is a significant health concern. The American Institute of Stress reports that 120,000 people die each year as a direct result of work-related stress. Furthermore, chronic stress can contribute to the development of numerous health issues, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and mental health disorders. This book is a reminder that we need to prioritize our well-being and cultivate a gentler approach to life.
The book is structured around three seasons: Rest, Less, and Rise, each guiding you toward a gentler way of living. What I particularly appreciate are the "Tiny Steps" included at the end of each chapter. These actionable suggestions provide a practical framework for implementing the book's wisdom, even if it's just one small change at a time. And the "Permission Slips" are pure genius! It is a gentle nudge and reassurance, making embracing these new, kinder habits easier.
Carver emphasizes that being gentle with yourself is a practice, and it's crucial to start small, grow slowly, and take one gentle step at a time. In today's society, "rushing and busyness can feel like an addiction," as the author points out.
"Gentle" has profoundly impacted my life. I've actively applied the practices Courtney shares in her book, it has been a game-changer. The book has a calming effect on my anxiety and truly puts me at ease. I can't recommend it highly enough. This book has been a lifeline for me. In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, 'Gentle' offers a much-needed counterpoint. The practices I've implemented have already made a noticeable difference in my stress levels, and I'm confident they'll continue to support my long-term well-being.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, this book is a must-read. It's a gentle yet powerful guide to reclaiming your well-being and living a more fulfilling life.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advanced reader copy of 'Gentle' by Courtney Carver. I've already recommended it to everyone in my social circle!
I'm the type who constantly juggles to-do lists and struggles to switch off after work. My mind races with "what ifs" and how I can be more productive. "Gentle" is a much-needed antidote to this relentless cycle. It's a powerful reminder to prioritize self-compassion and break free from the pressure to constantly do more.
It's crucial to remember that stress is a significant health concern. The American Institute of Stress reports that 120,000 people die each year as a direct result of work-related stress. Furthermore, chronic stress can contribute to the development of numerous health issues, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and mental health disorders. This book is a reminder that we need to prioritize our well-being and cultivate a gentler approach to life.
The book is structured around three seasons: Rest, Less, and Rise, each guiding you toward a gentler way of living. What I particularly appreciate are the "Tiny Steps" included at the end of each chapter. These actionable suggestions provide a practical framework for implementing the book's wisdom, even if it's just one small change at a time. And the "Permission Slips" are pure genius! It is a gentle nudge and reassurance, making embracing these new, kinder habits easier.
Carver emphasizes that being gentle with yourself is a practice, and it's crucial to start small, grow slowly, and take one gentle step at a time. In today's society, "rushing and busyness can feel like an addiction," as the author points out.
"Gentle" has profoundly impacted my life. I've actively applied the practices Courtney shares in her book, it has been a game-changer. The book has a calming effect on my anxiety and truly puts me at ease. I can't recommend it highly enough. This book has been a lifeline for me. In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, 'Gentle' offers a much-needed counterpoint. The practices I've implemented have already made a noticeable difference in my stress levels, and I'm confident they'll continue to support my long-term well-being.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, this book is a must-read. It's a gentle yet powerful guide to reclaiming your well-being and living a more fulfilling life.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for providing me with an advanced reader copy of 'Gentle' by Courtney Carver. I've already recommended it to everyone in my social circle!
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February 26, 2025Book Review: Gentle: Rest More, Stress Less, and Live the Life You Actually Want by Courtney Carver
In her illuminating work, Gentle: Rest More, Stress Less, and Live the Life You Actually Want, Courtney Carver invites readers into a transformative journey towards self-compassion and mindfulness amidst the chaos of modern life. This self-help book stands as a beacon for those grappling with the omnipresent pressures of work-related stress, an ailment that has insidiously woven itself into the fabric of our daily existence, often with dire consequences on both mental and physical health.
Carver’s insightful exploration is organized into three distinct yet interconnected seasons: Rest, Less, and Rise. This triadic framework is not merely a structural choice but a profound reflection of the cyclical nature of well-being. Each season encapsulates a set of philosophies and practices that urge the reader to embrace a gentler lifestyle, an ethos that is particularly vital in an era that glorifies busyness and overextension.
In the Rest season, Carver emphasizes the critical importance of reclaiming downtime, arguing that the relentless pursuit of productivity can lead to burnout and existential malaise. She invokes research linking chronic stress to significant health issues, including anxiety, depression, and even mortality, challenging readers to consider their own routines and the toll they may be exacting. This section serves as both a caution and a call to action—a reminder that true success is not synonymous with constant activity.
Transitioning into the Less season, Carver advocates for simplicity and the art of saying no. Through the introduction of “Tiny Steps,” she frames each chapter with practical, bite-sized actions that demystify the process of lifestyle change. Whether it’s decluttering a physical space or reducing emotional clutter, these actionable steps empower readers to make tangible progress without the intimidation that often accompanies self-improvement endeavors. Paired with her “Permission Slips”—gentle reminders that it is okay to prioritize oneself—Carver cultivates an atmosphere of encouragement that resonates deeply with those who may feel overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life.
The final season, Rise, is perhaps the most uplifting, as Carver celebrates the potential for growth that comes from adopting these gentler practices. Here, she weaves personal anecdotes and testimonials that illustrate the profound impact of her suggested lifestyle changes. For Carver, the journey has been transformative; her own struggles with anxiety and stress have substantially diminished as she embraced the principles laid out in her book. This authenticity lends credibility to her narrative, inviting readers to believe in the possibility of a more fulfilling existence.
Gentle is not just a self-help book; it is a manifesto for reclaiming one’s life from the grips of stress and overwhelm. Carver’s voice is gentle yet powerful, urging readers to take ownership of their well-being while navigating a busy society that often prioritizes hustle over health. This book is a must-read for anyone feeling trapped in the cycle of anxiety and exhaustion, serving as a compassionate guide towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.
In conclusion, Courtney Carver’s Gentle stands out in the vast landscape of self-help literature as a poignant reminder of the value of self-compassion, intentionality, and simplicity. It is a clarion call to those seeking solace from the strains of modern life, offering not just strategies for stress reduction but also a philosophy that celebrates rest and gentleness as pathways to true fulfillment. Readers will emerge from its pages not only with practical tools to enhance their lives but with a renewed sense of hope and possibility.
In her illuminating work, Gentle: Rest More, Stress Less, and Live the Life You Actually Want, Courtney Carver invites readers into a transformative journey towards self-compassion and mindfulness amidst the chaos of modern life. This self-help book stands as a beacon for those grappling with the omnipresent pressures of work-related stress, an ailment that has insidiously woven itself into the fabric of our daily existence, often with dire consequences on both mental and physical health.
Carver’s insightful exploration is organized into three distinct yet interconnected seasons: Rest, Less, and Rise. This triadic framework is not merely a structural choice but a profound reflection of the cyclical nature of well-being. Each season encapsulates a set of philosophies and practices that urge the reader to embrace a gentler lifestyle, an ethos that is particularly vital in an era that glorifies busyness and overextension.
In the Rest season, Carver emphasizes the critical importance of reclaiming downtime, arguing that the relentless pursuit of productivity can lead to burnout and existential malaise. She invokes research linking chronic stress to significant health issues, including anxiety, depression, and even mortality, challenging readers to consider their own routines and the toll they may be exacting. This section serves as both a caution and a call to action—a reminder that true success is not synonymous with constant activity.
Transitioning into the Less season, Carver advocates for simplicity and the art of saying no. Through the introduction of “Tiny Steps,” she frames each chapter with practical, bite-sized actions that demystify the process of lifestyle change. Whether it’s decluttering a physical space or reducing emotional clutter, these actionable steps empower readers to make tangible progress without the intimidation that often accompanies self-improvement endeavors. Paired with her “Permission Slips”—gentle reminders that it is okay to prioritize oneself—Carver cultivates an atmosphere of encouragement that resonates deeply with those who may feel overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life.
The final season, Rise, is perhaps the most uplifting, as Carver celebrates the potential for growth that comes from adopting these gentler practices. Here, she weaves personal anecdotes and testimonials that illustrate the profound impact of her suggested lifestyle changes. For Carver, the journey has been transformative; her own struggles with anxiety and stress have substantially diminished as she embraced the principles laid out in her book. This authenticity lends credibility to her narrative, inviting readers to believe in the possibility of a more fulfilling existence.
Gentle is not just a self-help book; it is a manifesto for reclaiming one’s life from the grips of stress and overwhelm. Carver’s voice is gentle yet powerful, urging readers to take ownership of their well-being while navigating a busy society that often prioritizes hustle over health. This book is a must-read for anyone feeling trapped in the cycle of anxiety and exhaustion, serving as a compassionate guide towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.
In conclusion, Courtney Carver’s Gentle stands out in the vast landscape of self-help literature as a poignant reminder of the value of self-compassion, intentionality, and simplicity. It is a clarion call to those seeking solace from the strains of modern life, offering not just strategies for stress reduction but also a philosophy that celebrates rest and gentleness as pathways to true fulfillment. Readers will emerge from its pages not only with practical tools to enhance their lives but with a renewed sense of hope and possibility.
March 9, 2025
Gentle: Rest More, Stress Less, and Live the Life You Actually Want is a beautiful, thoughtful exploration of how we can embrace a slower, more mindful lifestyle. In a world that often feels rushed and overwhelming, Carver’s book offers a much-needed antidote—teaching us that rest is not a luxury, but a necessity for a fulfilling life.
The author’s approach is grounded in the idea that we need to prioritize our well-being in order to live the life we truly want. She provides practical advice, such as simplifying our surroundings, setting boundaries, and practicing mindfulness, all of which contribute to reducing stress and fostering a sense of calm and joy.
What I loved about this book is how accessible and relatable it is. Carver's writing is warm and encouraging, making it easy to feel inspired to take small, actionable steps toward creating a more peaceful life. The book is full of personal stories and reflections, which help make her message even more powerful and authentic.
The structure of the book is easy to follow, and each chapter offers tips that can be implemented immediately. Carver doesn't overwhelm the reader with complicated techniques but instead gently guides us toward making changes that are in line with our values and needs.
Overall, Gentle is a wonderful resource for anyone looking to reclaim their peace and find more balance in their busy lives. It's not just a book about self-care—it's a guide to living with intention and embracing the beauty of simplicity. I highly recommend it to anyone feeling burnt out or seeking to slow down.
The author’s approach is grounded in the idea that we need to prioritize our well-being in order to live the life we truly want. She provides practical advice, such as simplifying our surroundings, setting boundaries, and practicing mindfulness, all of which contribute to reducing stress and fostering a sense of calm and joy.
What I loved about this book is how accessible and relatable it is. Carver's writing is warm and encouraging, making it easy to feel inspired to take small, actionable steps toward creating a more peaceful life. The book is full of personal stories and reflections, which help make her message even more powerful and authentic.
The structure of the book is easy to follow, and each chapter offers tips that can be implemented immediately. Carver doesn't overwhelm the reader with complicated techniques but instead gently guides us toward making changes that are in line with our values and needs.
Overall, Gentle is a wonderful resource for anyone looking to reclaim their peace and find more balance in their busy lives. It's not just a book about self-care—it's a guide to living with intention and embracing the beauty of simplicity. I highly recommend it to anyone feeling burnt out or seeking to slow down.
March 3, 2025
I've followed Courtney Carver for a number of years now, and many of her ideas about living more simply, especially when you're dealing with a chronic illness, really resonate with me, so when I heard she had a new book coming out it was an immediate preorder for me.
I appreciated the lifestyle approach laid out in Gentle, broken down into three cyclical periods of life--Rest, Less, and Rise. I've spent a lot of time cultivating a gentler approach to my life, making sure that I focus on small pleasures and on rest, and reading this book reinforced for me how much progress I've made. But of course there are always more things to learn, and Carver breaks each phase down into tiny bite-sized steps, many of which I found helpful.
There is a fair amount of political virtue signaling especially in the first section, and it was especially off-putting in a book like this. She could easily have made her points without taking a specific stand politically, and the book would have been stronger for it. Given how polarized our political climate is, I'm looking for a break from the noise, especially in a book about living gently. Fortunately this was heaviest in the first section, with much less after that.
Overall, Gentle is well organized and easy to read, with lots and lots of tips and insight into ways to live more gently and to give yourself as well as others more grace. 3.5 stars
I appreciated the lifestyle approach laid out in Gentle, broken down into three cyclical periods of life--Rest, Less, and Rise. I've spent a lot of time cultivating a gentler approach to my life, making sure that I focus on small pleasures and on rest, and reading this book reinforced for me how much progress I've made. But of course there are always more things to learn, and Carver breaks each phase down into tiny bite-sized steps, many of which I found helpful.
There is a fair amount of political virtue signaling especially in the first section, and it was especially off-putting in a book like this. She could easily have made her points without taking a specific stand politically, and the book would have been stronger for it. Given how polarized our political climate is, I'm looking for a break from the noise, especially in a book about living gently. Fortunately this was heaviest in the first section, with much less after that.
Overall, Gentle is well organized and easy to read, with lots and lots of tips and insight into ways to live more gently and to give yourself as well as others more grace. 3.5 stars
February 23, 2025
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and Balance for the e-ARC and physical copy in exchange for an honest review.
In her newest book Gentle, minimalist expert and author of Soulful Simplicity and Project 333 Courtney Carver walks to reader through how to live with less stress, less overwhelm, and more joy by discovering the Gentle You.
This was such a good read, and it felt like something I needed to hear during my current season of life. Courtney writes an easy-to-read self-help book that doesn't feel disguised as more productivity hacks. I also loved that Courtney provides lots of actionable steps without making it feel like you need to create another to-do list. She provides lots of opportunities for you to take the steps as you need them, and even gives smaller, gentler options if you aren't ready to take some of the bigger steps right now.
In her newest book Gentle, minimalist expert and author of Soulful Simplicity and Project 333 Courtney Carver walks to reader through how to live with less stress, less overwhelm, and more joy by discovering the Gentle You.
This was such a good read, and it felt like something I needed to hear during my current season of life. Courtney writes an easy-to-read self-help book that doesn't feel disguised as more productivity hacks. I also loved that Courtney provides lots of actionable steps without making it feel like you need to create another to-do list. She provides lots of opportunities for you to take the steps as you need them, and even gives smaller, gentler options if you aren't ready to take some of the bigger steps right now.
February 27, 2025
Very nice summation of ways to live with intention while reducing stress. This is directed at women mainly, and probably those still in the workforce.
Much of it has been said before and indeed whole books have been written on many of the topics here: sleep, stress, walking, mental health, etc. So while this is not an authoritative book on many of the topics, it nevertheless serves up prompts for rethinking how we live our life.
As a believer in minimalism, this strikes a chord. As someone who carries too much stress and general anxiety, it resonates. Author provides many examples from her own work life and experiences with illness. This is positive and uplifting.
Give yourself permission to rest, permission to have less (materialism, social media, etc) and rise up to live the life you actually want.
Much of it has been said before and indeed whole books have been written on many of the topics here: sleep, stress, walking, mental health, etc. So while this is not an authoritative book on many of the topics, it nevertheless serves up prompts for rethinking how we live our life.
As a believer in minimalism, this strikes a chord. As someone who carries too much stress and general anxiety, it resonates. Author provides many examples from her own work life and experiences with illness. This is positive and uplifting.
Give yourself permission to rest, permission to have less (materialism, social media, etc) and rise up to live the life you actually want.
March 3, 2025
Lovely book about creating space and peace in life.
Carver explores three larger topics: Rest, Less, and Rise, and has many chapters that focus on each of those in more detail. I loved that she starts the book with Rest, because that is the thing that I feel as if most women struggle with. We are always told to do more, and even our simplification tasks focus on the "doing." The author builds her case for being gentler with ourselves by focusing on rest rather than pushing to do more.
It seems counter-intuitive, but this book makes a great starting point if you're overwhelmed with stress and too much on your plate. Starting from a place of being rested, focused, and calm helps you to decide what is most important and eliminating the extras.
There are some things that I didn't care for and things I thought she spent too much time dwelling on, but I just chose to focus on what was important for me and what would work for me and set the rest aside.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Carver explores three larger topics: Rest, Less, and Rise, and has many chapters that focus on each of those in more detail. I loved that she starts the book with Rest, because that is the thing that I feel as if most women struggle with. We are always told to do more, and even our simplification tasks focus on the "doing." The author builds her case for being gentler with ourselves by focusing on rest rather than pushing to do more.
It seems counter-intuitive, but this book makes a great starting point if you're overwhelmed with stress and too much on your plate. Starting from a place of being rested, focused, and calm helps you to decide what is most important and eliminating the extras.
There are some things that I didn't care for and things I thought she spent too much time dwelling on, but I just chose to focus on what was important for me and what would work for me and set the rest aside.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
January 24, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for this free copy in exchange of an honest opinion. My only regret is that it took me so long to read this, but I am so thankful that I did. It was so therapeutic for my mental health. I appreciate the writers insight and compassion. I learned so much from this book, even something as simple as giving myself something that seems as simple as giving myself permission to be gentle. I have found that saying the word to myself quietly, has lowered my heart rate. With everything that is going on in the world right now, this book was much appreciated, so thank you.
February 14, 2025
This was extremely well done and insightful. The end of the chapters summary and permission slips and next steps were brilliantly done. The titled chapters can get me back to the title I would like to review. I appreciate the several pages of references, links and resources at the end. I definitely want to read her first two books. This one of the best manuals on self improvement I have read in quite some time. #Gentle #NetGalley #mustRead
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2025
Courtney Carver has written another lovely book full of mini steps one can take to slow down and enjoy life. Her idea behind "one small step, and if that is too much, then one tiny step" is brilliant, especially when dealing with the never ending winter season! An easy to read book, one that can be reread over time. Thanks to Ms Carver, Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2025
This book came to me at a time when I needed this message. It was a great first listen, but I must re-read it to take action steps.
I have been a long-time fan of Courtney Carver. I became acquainted with her ideas through her blog, "Be More With Less," and I have read her two other books. This book mentioned some ideas I have learned from her previously but focused on new ideas of gentleness.
I recommend for anyone feeling bogged down and recovering from perfectionism.
I have been a long-time fan of Courtney Carver. I became acquainted with her ideas through her blog, "Be More With Less," and I have read her two other books. This book mentioned some ideas I have learned from her previously but focused on new ideas of gentleness.
I recommend for anyone feeling bogged down and recovering from perfectionism.
March 7, 2025
3.5
“Gentle” by Courtney Carver is a self care book that has three sections: Rest, Less and Rise. Each section has different chapters to help you be more gentle with yourself. At the end of each chapter is tiny steps to help move forward without being overwhelmed and then also if you only have the capacity to do just one thing she outlines one to do. I thought that this book had good reminders and tips. Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the advanced reader copy.
“Gentle” by Courtney Carver is a self care book that has three sections: Rest, Less and Rise. Each section has different chapters to help you be more gentle with yourself. At the end of each chapter is tiny steps to help move forward without being overwhelmed and then also if you only have the capacity to do just one thing she outlines one to do. I thought that this book had good reminders and tips. Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the advanced reader copy.
Want to read
December 30, 2024So excited for this one. Big fan of Courtney!
February 21, 2025
Thank you for the lovely reminder to slow down and appreciate life. I truly enjoy all of Courtney's writings; her words have such a soothing and “Gentle” quality about them.
March 10, 2025
This definitely reminded me of my priorities, to embrace any potential life changes, and to just slowwww dowwwwwn and enjoy the ride.
December 5, 2024
Courtney Carver writes about simple living and minimalism. This book is a complement to her blog and her previous books by looking at simplifying by being gentle with ourselves. The book is in three parts: 1. Rest; 2. Less; and 3. Rise. Each short chapter in the sections gives one habit. Then Carver offers what she calls "tiny steps" to help you adopt the habit as well as a suggested first, gentle step. One chapter that I really liked was called "Little Saturday". It is a suggestion to have a mid-week weekend-like activity such as a takeout dinner and a fun movie to watch.
This book would be good to review on a regular basis when you are feeling overwhelmed and need ideas to help de-stress.
I received a complementary copy of this book via NetGalley.
This book would be good to review on a regular basis when you are feeling overwhelmed and need ideas to help de-stress.
I received a complementary copy of this book via NetGalley.
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