Time to Breathe is highly informative and easy to read. It focuses on maintaining balance in your life - for example diet, exercise, mindful activity, sleep, time for work and time for family and personal interests. There is also focus on ‘red flags’ - things to look out for that may indicate that balance is slipping and how it could lead to mental and physical discomfort and even serious illness. The narrative from Dr Mitchell's experience as a clinical psychologist is backed up with numerous case studies that are likely to be relatable to many people, as well as scientific and other academic research. As well as chapters on self care and awareness, there is also a section on leadership and successful teams, and how our behaviour can impact the health and wellbeing of others..

Although this book is pitched on the world of work, I think there is something in this for every area of our lives. There are practical tips on how to make changes for the better, including managing distractions that are common in the modern workplace such as continuous emails and the blurred boundaries between home and work time. It’s also highly relevant to the world in 2020 with a section written during lockdown, and some of the strategies to bring balance into our lives during that time continue to be relevant.

Highly recommended and potentially a life-changer.

A timely reminder of taking back space in the world, using such simple things as diet, exercise and relationships to do so. This is an amazing book, that outlines just how powerful such interventions are. I would recommend the book to all people, particularly ones that experience the effects of stress, such as burnout, anxiety and depression, and to others who want to avoid going there. Definitely a five star book.

With experience as a clinical psychologist, Dr Bill Mitchell brings an up-to-date perspective and helpful advice on how to navigate life in a world where work and our non-work lives are more integrated and how to maintain a balanced system (eat well, sleep well, exercise, spend time in nature). The book is filled with informative facts yet written in an easy readable style, and the use of case studies are relatable and engaging to illustrate how we can, for example, feel burnt out from not setting boundaries with increasing work demands and hours. Each chapter also includes helpful tips and techniques, and questions to reflect on to assess mental and physical well being, as well as ways in which to regain work-life balance. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn how to rebalance their lives to reduce stress and anxiety, and reinvigorate energy and happiness. A book to keep and reread if and when things get too much.