Book Review

Jog On by Bella Mackie

Synopsis:

Divorced and struggling with deep-rooted mental health problems, Bella Mackie ended her twenties in tears. She could barely find the strength to get off the sofa, let alone piece her life back together. Until one day she did something she had never done of her own free will – she pulled on a pair of trainers and went for a run.

That first attempt didn’t last very long. But to her surprise, she was back out there the next day. And the day after that. She began to set herself achievable goals – to run 5k in under 30 minutes, to walk to work every day for a week, to attempt 10 push-ups in a row. Before she knew it, her mood was lifting for the first time in years.

In Jog On, Bella explains with hilarious and unfiltered honesty how she used running to battle crippling anxiety and depression, without having to sacrifice her main loves: booze, cigarettes and ice cream. With the help of a supporting cast of doctors, psychologists, sportspeople and friends, she shares a wealth of inspirational stories, research and tips that show how exercise often can be the best medicine. This funny, moving and motivational book will encourage you to say ‘jog on’ to your problems and get your life back on track – no matter how small those first steps may be.

My Review: 4.5/5 Honest and so very Relatable Stars!

I read Jog On last week during my Christmas break and can I just say what a great way to end the year and start 2019 feeling so empowered and moved by Bella’s story!

Jog On tells the story of how Bella, who suffered from day-to-day anxiety and self-doubt and who was so lost in her own identity found comfort and solace through running; who eventually found “herself” and happiness again through the art of putting on your trainers and just go running.

The overwhelming feeling I have while I was reading this book was that Bella really put herself out there and was so honest about her own experience and sufferings that the book felt so raw at times. It was honest and so very personal. It was hilarious at times but behind the fun and laughter, I also see what tremendous courage she must have had to let the whole world see her at her weakest.

What I love most about this book is also that Bella combined her personal experience with extraordinary research and facts. It reads like a memoir but also a very informative book about mental health issues, ways to get help and benefits of not just running but just getting up every day to do something to change your life. It also gives tips of how you can start running and makes us realise how the most ordinary and simple thing can be the start of something life changing.

I found myself feeling so informed and empowered and full of inspiration after reading Jog On. I feel like I can set a goal for 2019 and achieve it. One step at a time and one day we will get to where we want to be.

Thank you so much Bella for writing this beautiful book and helping others by telling your stories.

Thank you so much for Liv and William Collins for sending me this advanced copy! Jog On is out now so make sure you go check it out!

2 thoughts on “Jog On by Bella Mackie”

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