Hi there and happy Sunday! 👋🏼 It's been a while since I've posted last and with everything going on in the world, I thought this would be a good opportunity to stay more in touch with others and stretch my creative muscles once again.
I'm not alone when I say things have been a bit rocky lately. All of the recent changes and uncertainty has been amplified by the serious state New York City - my home - finds itself in. I'd be lying if I said I haven't contemplated an escape plan or day dreamed of being in an house over a one bedroom apartment with a fire escape for outdoor space. It's so easy to focus on worst case scenarios and panic each time a siren sounds. But amidst all of the chaos, I've found myself blessed with supportive loved ones who help me stay positive and make each day beautiful in it's own way.
I've also found it's important now more than ever to prioritize things that make you happy. So in celebration of the small joys of life, here's a list of things I've found keep the negative thoughts at bay and help me destress after a tough day (or week).
Herbal Tea
For the past few month's I've slowly started to switch to exclusively drinking herbal tea.
The Republic of Tea has a beautiful array of unique herbals to choose from. If you're feeling stressed or having difficulty falling asleep, would definitely recommend
Get Relaxed or
Beauty Sleep. Nothing beats sipping deliciously warm tea to unwind and this small bit of comfort has made a world of difference.
Face Masks
When I think of relaxation and self care, face masks come to front of mind -- who's surprised. The
Sephora sheet masks have historically been my go to. They're relaxing, have great benefits for your skin, and silly to wear with friends and family. Nothing kills stress better than laughing with loved ones because you all look absolutely ridiculous. If sheet masks aren't your thing, I've also started using sleeping masks. Glow Recipe's
Watermelon +
Avocado masks -- 10/10.
Yoga + Running
There are a ton of apps giving free memberships while we're all cooped up. Right now the
Down Dog app is giving free access until May 1st. This was a
huge game changer for me. When I'm tense from sitting in front of my computer all day, a 20 minute yoga sesh is the perfect way to clear my mind, get the blood pumping and just reset. And for days you need something more, a long run through the neighborhood is just what the doctored order.
Puzzles
I am a
sucker for puzzles. Have been as long as I can remember. And I am not alone. The amount of people posting pictures of puzzles on social media has skyrocketed in the last few weeks. If you want to take a break from the screens and concentrate on a challenge,
Barnes and Noble has so. many. options. Last weekend I finished a 1000 piece puzzle in two days. 👀 Think I need stock up on a few more...
Nancy Drew Games
Okay, hear me out. I know this last one definitely shows off my geeky side, but I've been obsessed with
Nancy Drew games for as long as I can remember. If you like mysteries and want a challenge, would 100% recommend downloading one of these games. It's a running joke in my family that we can't beat a single game without looking up some of the answers, but that's because these games are
challenging. See if you can beat them without any hints - bet you you can't! In the past few months, I've played
Ghost of Thornton Hall,
The Silent Spy and
Labyrinth of Lies. Currently on
Alibi in Ashes - but there all such good games. Pick any one of them. You can't go wrong.
What are you doing to bring little moments of joy to your life?
