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Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips: Choosing Nourishing Self-Care in a Quick-Fix Culture
From a cognitive psychologist, a trusted voice among millennial women, a call to action for listeners everywhere to enter their true self-care era that will nourish and sustain them.
Toxic self-care culture tells women that bubble baths and Botox are the route to happiness and fulfillment. Though these types of self-care can fill us up in the moment, they cannot provide long-lasting nourishment. They are empty calories—the potato chips of self-care.
And from them, we can never get full. In the same way, we will not feel fulfilled by reaching for the empty calorie “self-care” trends that toxic, materialistic self-care culture sells us. To fill our exhausted bodies and weary minds, to live fully and authentically, we need the kind of self-care that nourishes.
Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips is a call to action for women everywhere to reach instead for nourishing self-care. Though this may sound easy in theory, many women struggle to carry it out. We struggle because we have forgotten how to reach. Our training as little girls taught us that it is polite to be grateful for what we get. To say thank you but I'm full when offered second helpings. To accept the potato chips we are given because there are people on this planet who have none, so how dare we ask for more?
Through the narrative voice of a psychologist who is also an exhausted millennial mom trying to keep it all together, Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips explores courageous self-care in the areas of marriage, motherhood, family dynamics, friendships, career life, and mental health. The author's personal stories range from the hilariously-yet-painfully relatable to the resonantly heart-rending. Each of these stories—the beautiful, the sparkling, the sad and the chaotic—teach women something about what it means to reach. What it means to stop settling for potato chips and to instead grasp for the things that truly fulfill. Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips is a mindset—a way of embracing and stepping into all of our divine, feminine power.
Toxic self-care culture tells women that bubble baths and Botox are the route to happiness and fulfillment. Though these types of self-care can fill us up in the moment, they cannot provide long-lasting nourishment. They are empty calories—the potato chips of self-care.
And from them, we can never get full. In the same way, we will not feel fulfilled by reaching for the empty calorie “self-care” trends that toxic, materialistic self-care culture sells us. To fill our exhausted bodies and weary minds, to live fully and authentically, we need the kind of self-care that nourishes.
Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips is a call to action for women everywhere to reach instead for nourishing self-care. Though this may sound easy in theory, many women struggle to carry it out. We struggle because we have forgotten how to reach. Our training as little girls taught us that it is polite to be grateful for what we get. To say thank you but I'm full when offered second helpings. To accept the potato chips we are given because there are people on this planet who have none, so how dare we ask for more?
Through the narrative voice of a psychologist who is also an exhausted millennial mom trying to keep it all together, Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips explores courageous self-care in the areas of marriage, motherhood, family dynamics, friendships, career life, and mental health. The author's personal stories range from the hilariously-yet-painfully relatable to the resonantly heart-rending. Each of these stories—the beautiful, the sparkling, the sad and the chaotic—teach women something about what it means to reach. What it means to stop settling for potato chips and to instead grasp for the things that truly fulfill. Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips is a mindset—a way of embracing and stepping into all of our divine, feminine power.
336 pages, Paperback
Published October 29, 2024
2 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
Amber Wardell, PhD
1 book9 followersYou might know me online as Sensible Amber. But here, I’m just Amber Wardell. Like you, I wear a lot of hats. I’m a cognitive psychologist, founder of LymiaBrand, and author. I’m also a wife to Charlie, a mom to Roman and Abby, an avid roller skater, and a tamer of dragons. Well, bearded dragons. They’re technically lizards but whatever.
I love reading non-fiction books in the areas of psychology, neuroscience, and self-improvement. If I’m not reading one of those, I usually have a thriller or a witchy book in my hand. Audiobooks are always running in the car (and yes, audiobooks count as reading!).
Most Likely to Offer to Balance your Chakras or Invite You to Yoga.
I love reading non-fiction books in the areas of psychology, neuroscience, and self-improvement. If I’m not reading one of those, I usually have a thriller or a witchy book in my hand. Audiobooks are always running in the car (and yes, audiobooks count as reading!).
Most Likely to Offer to Balance your Chakras or Invite You to Yoga.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
December 27, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Amber Wardell's "Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips: Choosing Nourishing Self-Care in a Quick-Fix Culture" offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on self-care in a world obsessed with instant gratification. This book goes beyond the superficial aspects of self-care, diving deep into the importance of nurturing one's mind, body, and spirit in meaningful ways.
Wardell structures the book into accessible, well-organized chapters, each focusing on different aspects of self-care. She blends personal anecdotes, expert insights, and practical advice to guide readers on their journey to holistic well-being. The narrative is engaging and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with the material and implement the strategies in their daily lives.
The central theme of "Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips" is the contrast between quick-fix solutions and truly nourishing self-care practices. Wardell encourages readers to move past the trendy but often shallow self-care routines and embrace activities that foster genuine growth and healing. Her writing is compassionate and motivating, striking a perfect balance between empathy and encouragement. She invites readers to reflect deeply on their habits and make conscious choices that enhance their overall quality of life.
One of the stellar features of this book is its emphasis on actionable steps. Wardell provides a wealth of practical tips and exercises that readers can easily incorporate into their routines. From mindfulness practices to nutritional advice and beyond, the book is a treasure trove of ideas that promote sustainable self-care. Each chapter ends with thought-provoking questions and exercises designed to help readers integrate the concepts into their lives.
"Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips" is a timely and valuable resource for anyone looking to cultivate a more nourishing approach to self-care. Wardell's holistic perspective and genuine passion for the topic shine through, making the book both informative and inspiring. It serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder that true self-care is about more than just temporary comforts—it's about creating a life that truly supports and sustains us.
For those tired of the quick-fix mentality and seeking deeper, more meaningful ways to care for themselves, "Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips" is a must-read. Amber Wardell's thoughtful and practical approach to self-care offers readers the tools and inspiration they need to create lasting, positive change in their lives.
This book is a testament to the power of intentional living and the profound impact it can have on our well-being.
Amber Wardell's "Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips: Choosing Nourishing Self-Care in a Quick-Fix Culture" offers a refreshing and insightful perspective on self-care in a world obsessed with instant gratification. This book goes beyond the superficial aspects of self-care, diving deep into the importance of nurturing one's mind, body, and spirit in meaningful ways.
Wardell structures the book into accessible, well-organized chapters, each focusing on different aspects of self-care. She blends personal anecdotes, expert insights, and practical advice to guide readers on their journey to holistic well-being. The narrative is engaging and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with the material and implement the strategies in their daily lives.
The central theme of "Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips" is the contrast between quick-fix solutions and truly nourishing self-care practices. Wardell encourages readers to move past the trendy but often shallow self-care routines and embrace activities that foster genuine growth and healing. Her writing is compassionate and motivating, striking a perfect balance between empathy and encouragement. She invites readers to reflect deeply on their habits and make conscious choices that enhance their overall quality of life.
One of the stellar features of this book is its emphasis on actionable steps. Wardell provides a wealth of practical tips and exercises that readers can easily incorporate into their routines. From mindfulness practices to nutritional advice and beyond, the book is a treasure trove of ideas that promote sustainable self-care. Each chapter ends with thought-provoking questions and exercises designed to help readers integrate the concepts into their lives.
"Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips" is a timely and valuable resource for anyone looking to cultivate a more nourishing approach to self-care. Wardell's holistic perspective and genuine passion for the topic shine through, making the book both informative and inspiring. It serves as a gentle yet powerful reminder that true self-care is about more than just temporary comforts—it's about creating a life that truly supports and sustains us.
For those tired of the quick-fix mentality and seeking deeper, more meaningful ways to care for themselves, "Beyond Self-Care Potato Chips" is a must-read. Amber Wardell's thoughtful and practical approach to self-care offers readers the tools and inspiration they need to create lasting, positive change in their lives.
This book is a testament to the power of intentional living and the profound impact it can have on our well-being.
October 21, 2024
There is not enough words to say how much I enjoyed this book! Throughout the book, Amber Wardell provides insight and brings awareness to the struggle of being a parent, a partner, and trying to keep floating above the chaos of it all. Through a journey of self-realization aided by what seems to be an awesome therapist. Her anecdotes throughout the book read like a friend giving useful advice. Her words and tips are so relatable.
The opening preface SPOKE to me. It begins with an analogy of scarfing down potato chips to feed a quick craving and suddenly realizing you’ve eaten the whole bag but still aren’t satisfied. According to Amber, this is a euphemism for a woman’s life - always giving but not getting enough of what we need for ourselves. I am actually also a chip fiend and although she’s not talking about actual chips, I can relate to the constant struggle to find balance and inner peace.
Wardell recalls advice she was given to put in effort and pour ourselves into the friendships and relationships that are worth our time and energy. Another statement that I really liked is “mental load is an actual load”. Wardell’s entire book reminds us to give ourselves some grace and that our time, as women, is valuable. We all make mistakes and are human. We also all deserve to put just as much focus on ourselves as we do on every other aspect of our life.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read the advanced reader copy of this book. I found it brought a little inner calm for me and I hope you enjoy it too!
The opening preface SPOKE to me. It begins with an analogy of scarfing down potato chips to feed a quick craving and suddenly realizing you’ve eaten the whole bag but still aren’t satisfied. According to Amber, this is a euphemism for a woman’s life - always giving but not getting enough of what we need for ourselves. I am actually also a chip fiend and although she’s not talking about actual chips, I can relate to the constant struggle to find balance and inner peace.
Wardell recalls advice she was given to put in effort and pour ourselves into the friendships and relationships that are worth our time and energy. Another statement that I really liked is “mental load is an actual load”. Wardell’s entire book reminds us to give ourselves some grace and that our time, as women, is valuable. We all make mistakes and are human. We also all deserve to put just as much focus on ourselves as we do on every other aspect of our life.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read the advanced reader copy of this book. I found it brought a little inner calm for me and I hope you enjoy it too!
December 15, 2024
I purchased the physical and audio versions of this book. I listened to the audio version so I could hear Amber narrate her book. I do not usually like it when authors read their books, but Amber did a fantastic job.
I have followed Amber for a few years on social media and was excited to find out she was writing a book. I could not wait to get my copy (or copies as it turned out). A lot of what Amber talks about on her socials is female-centered. As a male follower, I know it is not all mean for me. Some may feel she bashes males, but I have never felt ill will from her. She always makes me think.
This book is not my typical book. No spies or espionage. This book is filled with stories and examples of things in Amber’s life and how she handled them. These stories are told in a way that may relate to the reader and how she handled the situations could help others find a way to deal with their situations. A lot of what she talks about is female-centered and female-empowering. To me, there was no male bashing. Her examples of being a mom and a female living and working in a world that can be very male-centric gave me insight into how women may feel about things. I know men do and say things completely oblivious to how it may come across to women.
For the men who may look at this book and think “This is not for me”, maybe this book is exactly for you.
Maybe it will make you think as well.
I have followed Amber for a few years on social media and was excited to find out she was writing a book. I could not wait to get my copy (or copies as it turned out). A lot of what Amber talks about on her socials is female-centered. As a male follower, I know it is not all mean for me. Some may feel she bashes males, but I have never felt ill will from her. She always makes me think.
This book is not my typical book. No spies or espionage. This book is filled with stories and examples of things in Amber’s life and how she handled them. These stories are told in a way that may relate to the reader and how she handled the situations could help others find a way to deal with their situations. A lot of what she talks about is female-centered and female-empowering. To me, there was no male bashing. Her examples of being a mom and a female living and working in a world that can be very male-centric gave me insight into how women may feel about things. I know men do and say things completely oblivious to how it may come across to women.
For the men who may look at this book and think “This is not for me”, maybe this book is exactly for you.
Maybe it will make you think as well.
December 1, 2024
I devoured this book. Maybe because I related on many levels- the first and last sections hit home extremely hard for me, as did all the bits about navigating motherhood. But even the parts I didn’t completely relate to (I’ll definitely never be the most educated person in a room- lol) were insightful and inspiring. This book really helped refocus my energy after a year of newborn-induced haze. I can’t wait to start taking care of myself properly again. Thank you for providing me the tools I needed to get started.
December 3, 2024
I’ve followed the author on socials for awhile so I was vert much looking forward to this book and it did not disappoint! She offers practical advice for taking our feelings and going just a little bit deeper into the root cause as a form of caring for ourselves.
April 30, 2025
Not a licensed therapist, a person who sells drop shipped tat on the internet. Also…saw her try to have an affair with someone while married and giving marriage advice.
Easiest 1 star I’ve ever given.
Easiest 1 star I’ve ever given.
December 16, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with the ARC for review.
This is a light self-help book that mainly draws on the author's personal stories and experiences. Through these anecdotes, the author shares insights and advice that are easy to connect with. If you enjoy learning from others' personal stories, this book might be for you. However, if you're seeking self-improvement tips grounded in scientific research, this book may not meet your expectations.
This is a light self-help book that mainly draws on the author's personal stories and experiences. Through these anecdotes, the author shares insights and advice that are easy to connect with. If you enjoy learning from others' personal stories, this book might be for you. However, if you're seeking self-improvement tips grounded in scientific research, this book may not meet your expectations.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews