Start Here
This page is here to give you a few gentle starting points.
You don’t need to go through everything.
You might find yourself in one of the situations below —
and if something resonates, follow that.
How to Use This Page
You’ll find a few different pathways below, depending on where you are right now.
Each one offers:
something to read (if you’re curious)
something to try (if you want to experience it)
and a gentle next step (if you’d like more support)
Some books are linked for convenience (via Amazon), but feel free to explore your local bookshop or second-hand options — I often do the same.
If you feel tired… even when you try to rest
If switching off hasn’t been that easy lately, this is a gentle place to begin.
Read
The Heart of Yoga — T. K. V. Desikachar
(→ view on Amazon)
A clear and grounded introduction to yoga — both the practice and the philosophy behind it.
Accessible for all levels.
Try
Go deeper (optional)
If your digestion feels a little off
When the body asks for simplicity, it’s often worth listening.
Read
The Everyday Ayurveda Cookbook — Kate O'Donnell
All of Kate’s books are excellent — offering simple, nourishing recipes alongside a gentle introduction to Ayurveda.
The Bible of Ayurveda — Anne McIntyre
A comprehensive yet accessible introduction to Ayurvedic principles.
A favourite among my Back to Rhythm participants.
A helpful companion if you want to understand how everything fits together.
Try
Experience
If you want something light and inspiring
Not everything needs to be studied — sometimes a few quiet reflections are enough.
Read
The Ocean of Yoga — Julie Dunlop
A beautiful book to open at any page.
Short reflections, quotes, and insights on poses, breath, and philosophy.
Not one to read from beginning to end —
but something to return to when you want a moment of connection or reflection.
If you practise yoga and want to understand it more deeply
If you’ve been practising for a while and feel there’s more beneath the surface.
Read
The Heart of Yoga — T. K. V. Desikachar
Myths of the Asanas: The Stories at the Heart of the Yoga Tradition
A beautifully written collection of stories behind the yoga poses —
a lovely way to connect practice with meaning.
My most used version of the Yoga Sutras.
The commentaries are clear, relatable, and grounded in real life.
Explore
Trusted Sources
I often recommend Ayurvedic products from Deepa Apte, my wonderful Ayurveda Diet & Lifestyle tutor. Her formulations are thoughtful, authentic, and something I’ve used in my own practice for many years.
I also work with Holistic Essentials London, who offer a beautiful range of oils and herbal blends that support daily routines in a simple, practical way.
(If you choose to order from Holistic Essentials, you’re welcome to use code ZEST10.)
Local
Kelly Henry — The Holistic Reflexologist
A wonderfully knowledgeable, thoughtful, and professional therapist whom I highly recommend.
Simple Daily Supports
A few small things I return to regularly — simple, supportive, and easy to integrate into everyday life.
🥄 Tongue scraper — a gentle way to begin the day and support digestion
🪔 Sesame oil & warm oil massage (abhyanga) — something I come back to most mornings for grounding and warmth (I often use oils from Deepa Apte.)
🧘♀️ Yoga blocks & a bolster — helpful for slower, more supported practices
FAQs
Can I get personalised support?
Yes — depending on what you need, you can explore different options here:
→ Restoring Digestive Rhythm — 1:1 support
→ When Rest Isn’t Enough — Reset Week