I’m a proponent of practicing exquisite self care, and frankly I can’t think of a better time than now to be pulling out all the stops. I have lots of things in my toolbox, including surrounding myself with flowers, using flower essences and essential oils, a strong meditation practice, and a vibrant creative practice. And of course, I always like to keep my eyes open for what brings a spark of joy or delight.
To that end, I’ve collected a few links of things to share that hopefully will bring you some moments of respite, and perhaps needed distraction when you find yourself caught in spiraling anxiety.
- Some of you may be aware that I recently created a limited edition zine “Snakes & Ladders” in which I mused about this time of pandemic. Imagine my surprise and utter delight to find that someone else is creating Snakes and Ladders – “a weekly(ish) look at some of the ups and downs of art and culture.” Take a peek at a current issue “Sounds of Tranquility” which includes a number of links to explore. Seems like perfect timing to me – don’t we all need doses of tranquility?
- I’m fascinated by The Amazing Life of Sand.
- Spiral Coral – utterly gorgeous. If nature doesn’t leave you gobsmacked by its magnificence, I simply don’t understand you.
- Apparently still on the beachy/watery theme, check out this short clip about flamingos. And tell me what’s not to like about pink birds with black legs?
- I’m greatly fascinated by hands and apparently I’m not the only one.
- Earlier this year I created a 100-Day-Project of sending out love letters. It was one of the most satisfying things on all sorts of levels. And I think it’s time to pick up the practice again. I’m pretty sure we could all use extra doses of love, no? And mail from unexpected places is pretty cool, too.
- Here’s a poignant little film about these times and How to be at home.
- And let’s end with a painted rainbow. Life may not be all rainbows and unicorns, but I’ll certainly take as many as I can get.
If you’ve got a charming, uplifting, cheery, or interesting thing to share, or even just a simple hello, you know I’d love to hear. And in case you’re the one needing to hear, know I’m sending love and good wishes your way.
Well, hello, and good wishes to you, too. The coral is gorgeous. I have this jewelry fetish, you know, and I recently got the loveliest coral bracelet and already had some coral earrings and a coral necklace. I think jewelry is my self-care.
I hope you’ll send me a photo of your pieces – you know as a sister jewelry lover I want to see.
I will, very soon. They all have a little story, too.
Love that!
Hello! Nothing especially uplifting here, but nothing totally despairing either. A balance, I guess. As we wait…
As we wait indeed. Wishing you balance with no wobbles.
I love flamingos but not their smell. 🙂 I am enjoying my coffee, time with my cat and my Great Whatever cooking shows, from which I’ve prepared a few desserts. Focusing on the small pleasures and routines of life is getting me through this. Some days, barely.
Stinky Pinkys eh?
I like the sound of your feel-good (or at least better) formula Margaret. Kitty cuddling and dessert diving are automatic wins in my book.
Hello Deborah
What a lovely list of pleasures – I’m looking forward to exploring them all through today. But I’ve just spent a delightful 10 minutes looking at the mail stories – I love letter writing and still send postcards when I’m away from home – such a delightful story.
Things have been a bit stressful here these past few months with family illnesses but thankfully all is returning to some sort of balance and I’m getting back to one of my treats – reading blogs :). I’ll perhaps get around to writing one some day soon as well lol
Stay well
Fil
I’m sorry to hear you’ve been navigating some stressful times Fil, but I’m glad things are settling a bit. I love that you send postcards when away – how fun! Wishing you plenty of breathing space and restorative doses of delight!
Hi Deborah – it’s great you’ve found these links for us – there are the little things that come along in life … the sun – when it appears! Being positive – and I’m blessed that I’m blessed that way. Take care – Hilary
Sunny days are fabulous mood lifters aren’t they? We;re having a string of sunny warm days and I’m appreciating them even more because we had such early snowfall this year. Stay well and keep spreading your positivity Hilary – it’s greatly appreciated!
Love, love, love ALL of YOUR HAPPY SNAIL MAIL… And boy what a great story of the “snail mail post offices”. I’ll get something out your way very soon…STAY SAFE AND WELL!
It really is delightful to consider the journeys our mail takes to get to us. May you mailbox overflow with goodness always! Wishing you safety and wellness too.