Motivational Book Review: 72 Lessons to Rock Your Life by Sasha Woertz Westray of Lewes

I didn't call my new book review blog "The Novel Lair" just because it sounds pretty, although I must admit that I've been fascinated by phonaesthetics since seeing "Donnie Darko" and researching the "cellar door" phrase. Out of the hundreds upon hundreds of books I've read in my life, only a few have been non-fiction. Even the fiction books I read could rarely be mistaken for being based on a true story. Unless a book has time travelers, vampires or other fantastical creatures, I'm usually not interested. Then what possessed me to read a self-help book, you ask?

Well, Sasha Woertz Westray may not have visible wings, but she is a motivational beast. I started taking her Monday hip hop classes over 10 years ago and still can barely believe one human can have so much energy. Even just listening to her talk for the few minutes before class begins each week is uplifting, whether she's giving tips on how to eat healthier meals or simply catching up with everyone.

Sometimes I'm breathless before she even turns on the music because she's asked me so many questions about where I went over the weekend. Being an introvert, I'm not used to being the center of attention in a conversation but she makes it easy. Her light shines bright without dimming those around her. Sure, I'm mostly shining with sweat by the time I leave dance class, but I feel amazing. We always cool down by stretching and breathing - and when exhaling, Sasha reminds us to let go of all the negativity that's weighing us down. And it works! I really do feel lighter after class, and not just because of the calories I've shaken off.

Her book revolves around achieving that exhilaration in all aspects of your life, while still being you. Positive thinking really is powerful and she's written 116 pages worth of it! 72 lessons is a lot - not all may stick for everyone, but there's bound to be at least a few that will hit home for each of you. As she points out, there is no one-size-fits-all or magic blueprint to life. But believe me, having a spirit-shaker like Sasha makes it easier to tune into your inner voice and do what makes you happy. How can you not feel motivated to start the day like a rock star when you read advice like "Today rock your power, rock your unique and beautiful self, and LIVE!"

"72 Lessons to Rock Your Life: Encouragement for your life and spirit" by Sasha Woertz Westray is available on Amazon as both an eBook and paperback. If you live locally, you can buy and pick up print copies at her studio in Lewes by emailing her at theswstudio@gmail.com. Or you might be lucky enough to read it for free. Not only is she hiding books throughout town so fate can grant it to people who need it, but she's also giving a signed copy away to a random winner anywhere in the world through the Rock Your Life Giveaway on my other blog.

Aquariann reads books like dragons breathe fire. Inhale more of her whimsical ramblings on her Art and Tree Chatter blog.