Books - ZenRiots

The Molecule of More: How a Single Chemical in Your Brain Drives Love, Sex, and Creativity—and Will Determine the Fate of the Human Race

In “The Molecule of More,” psychiatrist Daniel Z. Lieberman, MD, and Michael E. Long explore the profound influence of dopamine—the brain’s primary chemical of motivation and anticipation. The book’s central argument is that human experience is governed by a perpetual conflict between two fundamental chemical systems: the Dopamine System (D-System), which drives the pursuit of…

The Neurobiology of Addiction

“Neurobiology of Addiction” by leading addiction researchers George F. Koob and Michel Le Moal is a definitive, academic text that provides a comprehensive, science-backed framework for understanding addiction as a chronic, relapsing brain disorder. The book’s core achievement is the detailed mapping of the brain changes that drive compulsive substance use, validating the disease model…

Neurosculpting: A Whole-Brain Approach to Rewiring and Retraining Your Brain to Heal

In “Neurosculpting: A Whole-Brain Approach to Heal Trauma, Rewrite Limiting Beliefs, and Find Wholeness,” author Lisa Wimberger presents a powerful, evidence-based method for conscious self-transformation. The book’s core philosophy is that we are not victims of our past or our brain chemistry, but can actively use neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to rewire itself—to heal trauma and…

Radical Acceptance: Awakening the Love That Heals Fear and Shame

In “Radical Acceptance: Awakening the Love that Heals Fear and Shame,” meditation teacher and psychologist Tara Brach, Ph.D., offers a powerful and compassionate path to emotional freedom. The book’s core message is that our deepest suffering is not caused by our imperfections, but by our constant resistance to them. Brach introduces the concept of Radical…

Rewire Your Brain: Think Your Way to a Better Life

In “Rewire Your Brain: Think Your Way to a Better Life,” psychologist John B. Arden, Ph.D., provides an empowering and science-based guide to harnessing the brain’s incredible capacity for change, known as neuroplasticity. The book’s core message is a direct and optimistic one: you are not stuck with the brain you have; you can consciously…

Self-Compassion For Dummies

“Self-Compassion For Dummies” by Steven Hickman, PsyD, provides a clear, practical, and highly accessible guide to integrating self-compassion into daily life. Written in the popular For Dummies format, the book demystifies the practice and science of self-compassion, presenting it as a foundational skill for mental health and well-being. Hickman, a leading expert in the field,…

The Sober Starting Today Workbook: Powerful Mindfulness & CBT Tools to Help You Break Free from Addiction

The “Sober Starting Today Workbook” by Deborah Sosin, MSW, LICSW, is a highly practical and compassionate guide that directly equips individuals with powerful, evidence-based tools for overcoming addiction. The book’s strength lies in its effective synthesis of Mindfulness techniques and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) strategies. This dual approach provides readers with both the contemplative awareness…

The Sober Truth: Debunking the Bad Science Behind 12-Step Programs and the Rehab Industry

In “The Sober Truth: Debunking the Bad Science Behind Twelve-Step Programs and the Rehab Industry,” Dr. Lance Dodes and Zachary Dodes deliver a controversial yet meticulously researched critique of the dominant American addiction treatment model. The book argues that the belief in the overwhelming success of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and 12-Step based rehabilitation centers is…

The Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness Workbook by David A. Treleaven

In “The Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness Workbook,” David A. Treleaven offers an essential guide for anyone engaging with mindfulness, particularly those with a history of trauma. Although written for teachers, the book provides vital principles for individuals in recovery, a population where trauma is highly prevalent. Treleaven addresses the critical, often-overlooked fact that traditional mindfulness practices (like…

Unfu*k Yourself: Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life

In “Unfu*k Yourself: Get Out of Your Head and Into Your Life,” life coach Gary John Bishop delivers a raw, direct, and no-nonsense guide to personal empowerment. The book’s core message is a direct challenge to the reader: your life is a mess because you allow it to be, and the path to change begins…