Eglu would be good- so much easier to clean than my wooden coop. They are like little dinosaurs, which can be very cute or very scary haha.
It sounds really interesting! I agree with the 'fake it til you make it' sentiment- I find when I am at the heavier end of where I want to be, I definitely make less effort with my appearance and end up more miserable, and so the cycle continues. I'm trying to take better care of myself regardless of weight, and think more positively. And getting rid of the clothes I wear when I felt chunky was very satisfying!
I'm currently having hypnotherapy (unrelated to weight) and though I'm only on my second session, I'm hopeful of the results. It's hard to tell if I'm 'open' to it, though I think I am. I am aware of what's being said and don't 'wake up' as if from being asleep, but I definitely go into some sort of relaxation. I really hope the replacement of the subconscious from 'can't' to 'can' works.
Book sounds good- I like a good read- I'll look it up on my Kindle when it's charged up!