Yogi Bare Book Club

A Journey of Inspiration

Discover yourself through the power of words, wisdom, and shared reflection.

Welcome to the Yogi Bare Book Club
Here, we dive into inspiring stories, explore thought-provoking ideas, and connect with remarkable voices—from books and podcasts to TED Talks. Together, we explore philosophy, mindfulness, and personal growth in an open and inclusive space.

Everyone is welcome.
Whether you’re a lifelong learner or simply curious, our book club is for those who enjoy exploring new perspectives. We don’t have to agree on everything—that’s what makes the conversations richer. In our respectful, judgment-free discussions, we invite each other to grow, reflect, and maybe even see the world in a new light.

Accessing the Reads
We aim to select titles that are free or widely accessible:

• Check the Brisbane City Library Catalogue—each branch has different selections, so let your local library know what you’re looking for.
• Use apps like Libby or BorrowBox. (linked to your library membership)
• Explore audiobooks available through your Spotify account.

Joining is Easy

• Email Tanya:  to get started
• Meet-up times vary each month—come when it suits you.
• Stay in touch through our Facebook Group or Messenger group chat.
• Meet up usually last 1 – 2 hours.  Come and go as you need.

Upcoming Meet-Ups

• Thursday 23rd October @ 7 pm

Location:
Corner of Vine Street & Wagner Rd, Clayfield. (Outings may happen—venues will be announced in advance.)

FREE to attend. All are welcome to join.

Questions or Ready to Join?

SMS or Call: 0410 601 773

CURRENT READ

Mary’s Last Dance by Mary Li

This moving memoir came to us through one of our students who spotted Mary herself returning to the mat at Clayfield Yoga Studio.

Mary is not only a celebrated ballerina and wife of Mao’s Last Dancer author Li Cunxin — she’s also sister to our longtime student Brig McKendry 💛

From growing up in Rockhampton to dancing on world stages, Mary’s story is one of resilience, sacrifice, and deep love. A powerful reminder of the quiet strength in choosing family and following passion.

PAST READS

Below is the list of our past reads if you’re a fast reader or want to catch up. 

We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life’s 20 Questions is a heartfelt guidebook for being human—messy, brave, and real. Inspired by the hit podcast, it brings together voices like Michelle Obama and Chelsea Handler to explore life’s big questions—love, grief, identity, and resilience. Through raw stories from Glennon, Amanda, and Abby, we’re reminded: life is hard, but we don’t have to do it alone. Their vulnerability reminds us: yes, life is hard—but we don’t have to face it alone.

The Places That Scare You by Pema Chödrön

Braving the Wilderness – Brene Brown

“The quest for true belonging and the courage to stand alone”. Braving the Wilderness is a book not about ‘fitting in’, but being who we are – no matter what. Connecting to our courage, authenticity and vulnerability – with what is needed in the world.

“The Alchemist” – A novel by Paulo Coelho.  The Alchemist is a story of following one’s dreams to find one’s purpose in life. The main character, Santiago, is a Spanish shepherd boy who leaves behind his job and family to search for his Personal Legend, a hidden treasure that he believes is buried near the pyramids in Egypt.

• 1. The read is a book by Glennon Doyle, Untamed -This is the story of a woman who discovered that being a responsible mother means showing her children how to live truly, rather than sacrificing herself for them.
• 2. The podcast is Rich Roll speaking to special guest Light Watkins on Spiritual Minimalism, Purpose & Living a More Fulfilling Life.   Link to your podcast preference via this website 

Discover the funny, sad, and super-honest journey of Chelsea Handler’s year of self-discovery. She is an American stand-up comedian, actress, writer, television host, and producer and fed up with the privileged bubble she’s been living in—a bubble within a bubble—Chelsea decides it’s time for change, both personally and globally.

Judith Orloff’s books are tailored for individuals with a heightened ability to perceive and understand emotions, feelings, and energies within themselves and others. They serve as an excellent resource for beginners and provide valuable tips and tools for those already aware of their empathic traits. Discover more about these insightful books. read more here:

Casper Ter Kuile “The Power of Ritual, turning everyday activities into soulful practices”– summary – We can nourish our souls by transforming everyday practices―eating together, working out, reading, taking a walk―into sacred rituals that can heal our crisis of social isolation and longing for connection. This essential reading is for anyone interested in how to find meaning in our strange, new world. Bursting with wisdom and compassion and easy to read. discover more here

Elizabeth Gilbert’s “Big Magic, Creative Living Beyond Fear” – summary; this book encourages readers to embrace their creativity without fear or judgment. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Elizabeth provides a refreshing perspective on the pursuit of creative fulfilment and the importance of taking risks. read more here

FOR EXTRA on topic with Books “Big Magic” and “Power of Ritual”.  Listen to “The Mel Robbins Podcast” – “Want to be Happier Right Now?, New Surprising Science from Dr Judith Joseph”

From our last meetup, the group enthusiastically embraced Brene Brown’s “Atlas of the Heart.” This book, aptly subtitled “The Language of the Human Experience” by Brene, serves as a wellspring of inspiration for the group, motivating them to delve deeper into their own emotions and experiences.

This Audio works beautifully with “Atlas of the Heart”.  This recording of Rising Strong as a Spiritual Practice is from an event Brene Brown ran emphasising the importance of having at least 30 different words to express your emotions/feelings.  Most people have about 3 words which leaves a lot of people feeling like their mouths are duct-tapped shut when trying to communicate the discomfort or pain they feel inside.  Having a greater understanding and an abundance of ways to express allows for clear communication and less frustration.