List three books that have had an impact on you. Why?

Books have a way of leaving imprints on our lives, sometimes subtly, sometimes profoundly. Three books I read years agoKundalini: The Evolutionary Energy in Man by Gopi Krishna, Mindfulness in Plain English by Henepola Gunaratana, and Freedom Road by Howard Fasthave stayed with me, each sparking a different kind of awakening.

1. Kundalini: The Evolutionary Energy in Man by Gopi Krishna
I picked up this book in 2014, and it launched me into a year-long exploration of spiritual discovery. Gopi Krishna’s raw, almost unbelievable account of his accidental journey to higher consciousness through yogic breathing gripped me. His story begins with a joltpractices meant to calm the mind instead unleash a torrent of physical and mental challenges. The vivid descriptions of his struggles, paired with the eventual transcendence, were both cautionary and inspiring. It’s a book that doesn’t just narrate but challenges you to question the boundaries of human potential. For anyone curious about the untapped energy within, it’s a fascinating, if intense, read.

2. Mindfulness in Plain English by Henepola Gunaratana
This book is my go-to guide for meditation, and I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve returned to Chapter 5, “The Practice.” Its clear, no-nonsense approach strips mindfulness of any mystical baggage, making it accessible to anyone, regardless of beliefs. Gunaratana’s explanations are like a trusted friend walking you through the steps of meditationsimple yet profound. Each reread feels like a reset, reminding me to stay present and focused. If you’re looking to understand mindfulness without the fluff, this book is a timeless companion.

3. Freedom Road by Howard Fast
I stumbled upon this gem in a pile of books at a relative’s house, and what a find! Freedom Road tells the story of an ex-slave and Union soldier who rises to become a U.S. senator against all odds. It’s the kind of underdog tale that hits you square in the chestgritty, hopeful, and full of heart. Fast’s storytelling weaves resilience and triumph into a narrative that feels both historical and deeply personal. Stories like this remind me why I’m drawn to tales of perseverance: they ignite a spark, urging you to push through your own challenges.

These three bookseach so different in tone and topichave one thing in common: they’ve left a lasting mark. Whether it’s exploring the mysteries of consciousness, grounding myself in mindfulness, or cheering for an underdog’s triumph, they’ve shaped how I see the world and myself.