Savoring simple everyday pleasures

After a busy, full, but positive week topped off with a public holiday and some gorgeous wintry sunshine, I'm keeping it simple with this weeks post- A list of things I find excellent tools to help me stay calm, positive, and remain present:

1. Start the day right- Upon waking, I have a long tall glass of room temperate water to rehydrate after what was hopefully a restful sleep. Regardless, your body needs water and to flush out any toxins. I vary between just water, water with a pinch of Himalayan rock salt to help with electrolyte balance, and there have been times when I've regularly taken it with a squeeze of fresh lemon, to zing it up, add some vitamin C and aide digestion. 

2. A 10 minute yoga stretch, or some meditation. I am working on my meditation skills- or trying to - my mind keeps wandering(!) But to feel your breath and wake up the body gently with a good dose of gratitude is always a good idea. We can all squeeze in10 minutes even if its before bed and not as you wake. 

3. A walk- for however long and where ever your legs take you- rain or shine. Be present, observe the nature surrounding you- even in a city there is plenty- birds, cloud formations, trees, parks. Its there if you seek it. Walking is my non negotiable daily dose of mindfulness and headspace. 

4. Read or browse something positive or inspirational. This might be a favorite blog, a passage from a book you love and have read and re read, a magazine article, a celebrity or sports personality whom you admire and aspire to their healthy vibrant way of living. A motivational you tube video- Ted talk, Oprah or an interesting author. Something to pep you up and push you forward. 

5. Bake a delicious treat for afternoon tea or cook something nutritious and delicious with no time constraints and some favorite music. I love to prepare dinner to Jazz, and bake to classical for instance. 

6. A green juice. Nothing makes me feel like I am nourishing my body and zapping it with the good stuff than a green juice: Green apple, spinach or kale, lemon juice, fresh ginger, iced water- blend until completely smooth and outrageously green, drink immediately- preferably outside. 

7. If the season permits- sit by a cracking fire and just listen. Its so soothing and such a basic act that has served all our ancestors in one way or another- its very grounding and evocative. A fire pit or bonfire is equally charming - marshmallow toasting, baked potato roasting, or coastal - but the smell and crackle is unbeatable. 

8. Candles- the tranquility their light brings, the moment of lighting- even during the day, and my personal favorite is the scent. Instantly elevates my mood and immediate environment.

9. Breath in the ocean. I find there is little more a grounding location to keep me in the present than the beach. And while I love a tropical island as much as the next person, a rugged wintry shore is absolutely as beautiful if not better. A wind swept cliff top to blow the cobwebs away is pure magic, as is watching an amber globe melt into a warm ocean.  I am lucky enough to live in a coastal area, in fact, you are hard pushed to be anywhere in New Zealand too far from the ocean, but any body of water or river, lake, waterfall or stream serves just as worthy a purpose for lifting the spirits and boosting your outlook. 

10. Time in the garden. getting your hands dirty- literally. It ticks so many boxes- Fresh air, vitamin D, physical exercise, productive, rewarding, and wonderful for the spirit.  Even just mowing the lawns makes me feel centered. Gardening allows you to pause and step back and relish the changing seasons, the wonders of mother nature, and the rhythms which surround us throughout the year. Their predictability and routine and cycles help me reflect, compose myself and take huge rejuvenating breaths.

And a bonus 11. Is there anything more luxurious, rejuvenating and rewarding than sinking into a hot bath with gently flickering candles and a book or a podcast or some music or just peace at the end of a long day of work, gardening, housework, exercise ....well , anything. Top that off with climbing into fresh line dried sheets......

 Savoring simple daily pleasures

This week has been a week of lessons and self-discovery. Whilst it has been tumultuous for several reasons - Which I wont get into here- It has also been of great value and encouraged me to reflect, be brutally honest with myself and my chosen life path, and to listen to my gut instinct. It has been, at times, stressful and emotionally demanding- yet has taught me such valuable life lessons, and lessons I either needed to learn about myself or at least re visit, that I am left buoyed, lighter, and all the wiser for it.

I am now enjoying a beautiful sense of calm and contentment and a feeling of completeness, that if these situations hadn't arisen, I would have been oblivious to their timely necessity.

Something I deeply appreciated over the past days has been the power of the outdoors, natural light and a sense of space. During some of the more challenging moments I took myself on walks and each time, (sometimes alone, sometimes with a friend or my husband) there was a deep peace that came with the fresh air, big skies and magical hues. It became a coping mechanism which truly worked, it put the issues into perspective, allowed reflection, a little distance- physically and metaphorically, and was so incredibly calming and reassuring, I was instantly more focused, less anxious and more positive, just through being out in nature and taking great deep lungful's of fresh crisp air. Allowing time and space to let my inner voice be heard, and importantly, acknowledged. 

I like to think that Everyday Contentment is a place of positivity, beauty and gratitude, as indeed that was the thought behind its creation, but sometimes part of that process is going though the not- so- lovely bits, reevaluating, reflecting and coming back full circle to being truly thankful and content with what is already in your life. 

I have learned some boundaries, some triggers, a clearly defined comfort zone, and have gratefully absorbed the abundance of unconditional love and friendship I am so lucky to be surrounded with. 

It has sharpened my focus on the directions I do wish to pursue, areas I need to improve, and skill sets I'd like to acquire and master. Perhaps others I don't, and can leave those to someone else to perfect. 

It feels like a new chapter, a fresh start, and a clarity of vision which makes me excited and hugely optimistic for the opportunities still out there, patiently waiting for the right time. My right time. 

The mantra - you are in exactly the right place, at exactly the right time, doing exactly the right thing, has been a solid comfort to me. And I do believe it's the case. 

Here's to a deep breath filled, peaceful, relaxed and contented weekend full of love, gratitude- and plenty of fresh air and time outdoors. 

 Savoring Simple Everyday Pleasures

Hard to believe we are already halfway thought the year almost- this coming week will be our shortest day here in New Zealand- hurrah! The down hill to Spring! As regular readers will know I actually enjoy and savor all the seasons for their unique qualities, but I do struggle with the lack of day light hours in the depths of winter- When it feels as though you are racing the clock to get everything you want achieved in natural light, before the draw to be cosy and snuggled in for the night becomes irresistible. 

So I am halfway through my no buy year- which is quite extraordinary really. And probably high time for a few home truths...

A year was probably a little ambitious- it's rather a long time to see round corners- and hard to predict what twists and turns life may take which inadvertently then "require" new/different/specific garments to be purchased or acquired. 

My willpower is also just not that strong! While I haven't directly bought new clothes, I have bought some sportswear, running shoes, and suggested to my lovely family they might like to gift me a woolen wrap coat I spied on sale for my Mothers Day gift! Which happily they did!

Oh, and a much-needed rain jacket for walking in the downpours as I frequently do- but that was purchased with Airpoints....

Then, just this past week, a huge development in working life and a job offer that just a month ago was inconceivable let alone in my sights. Pair this timing with the news one of my favorite Highstreet but quality timeless classic brands, SPORTSCRAFT is yet another casualty in this recession, and is ceasing trade. 

Consequently, this meant that several of their classic and rather lovely pieces were heavily discounted; timely with my recent requirement for some slightly more formal office attire! 

So, I made 2 purchases;

A classic wool blazer in camel, and a burgundy silk shirt. Classic, elegant, timeless and elevated. 

I am being gentle with myself, and not allowing myself to feel too much guilt or shame for not quite meeting my end of the promise. I will continue to be very mindful and intentional for the remainder of the year, but I have learned to be focused, appreciative and creative with what I am so fortunate to own already. Items I have introduced are genuinely required and will work for me, and with existing pieces for years to come. They were not frivolous items, or spur of the moment impulse buys. 

It is still quite possible I will need to add one or two more pieces to my working wardrobe, as the job and environment has changed considerably. But I will keep you updated, and I promise not to be silly, thoughtless or extravagant. Here's to the next 6 months and to an ongoing appreciation of what I already have, and a mindfulness of adding quality pieces as needed.

 

 Savoring simple everyday pleasures

As I came to the end of one of my early evening walks this week, just as dusk fell in earnest, a blue VW Kombi Van drove past me- my eyesight is not what it was, but even before I could see it clearly, I anticipated the predictable sight of the owners Red setter dogs ears and soft muzzle protruding out of the open window taking in all the sights and smells. 

Predictable, as although I do not know the owner or the pup, this van, with its distinctive engine noise and passenger, has been around the neighborhood for many, many years. Now, its quite possible there have been more than one beloved Red Setter over the years, but what spoke to me was the comfort and soothing quality of the routine, the sheer simplicity of contentment, as this dogs muzzle was noticeably greyer then when I last noticed, suggesting this is a daily ritual, has been enjoyed by both occupants, over many years. The peacefulness and harmony of the scene really stuck a chord with me- particularly after a somewhat challenging week. 

The obvious delight this pair take in their journey - I'm guessing to the beach- enjoying the air, the scenery, the companionship and the routine, was delightfully calming to witness. 

I took real comfort in their regular habit, the time honored routine in amongst the chaos and business of life if we don't consciously stop, pause, and savor these moments. 

I am not a patient person with regards to myself, in fact I'm a terrible patient when I'm sick and have been battling an arm injury of late which I'm finding so frustrating as its preventing doing things I love - I just want it better NOW. 

And throughout this rather fraught week, the universe has gently pushed little signs and reminders my way, of practicing patience, of time being something we are not in control of, of its passing if we desire it to quickly or not, it passes at its steady continuous pace regardless. 

The D Day landings were commemorated this week- those veterans are the last handful of those brave souls still living, and while they were looking elderly and frail for the most part, I imagine those memories are as sharp and vivid as ever they were. My dear Grandfathers along with their brothers, plus my brave courageous Grandmothers all served. I would think that when they reflect on those harrowing days it seems as though no time has passed. They went on to bring up children and have careers, welcome many grandchildren into their lives and some great grandchildren even- As they grew older, the daily habits and rituals become such a comfort and even source of joy for them- particularly after retirement. It gave their days purpose and structure. They were lucky enough to mostly live good long fulfilling lives- and it gives me comfort to reflect on their gentleness and their conservative and respectful use of time: Writing letters, time in the garden, savoring the seasons for their beauty, bounty and harvest, watching grandchildren grow, nurturing relationships and friendships in their village and being involved in their church community, preparing a meal from scratch as there was no other way, growing vegetables, making jam, collecting fire wood, reading the paper. Phones were in one place with a chord attached to the wall (and telephone numbers were 3 digits long!). News was delivered to the doorstep rolled up, shops closed at 12noon on Saturdays and were never open on Sundays, holidays were packing up the car and driving an hour or two away- to friends or with a tent, roasts were on Sundays after church with the family all present, cakes were decorated with smarties and were full of sugar, butter (and gluten!) Bellows were used to re start the fires embers on a cold morning, tea was in a pot- always- roses bloomed every summer, copper and brass were polished every month, and "40 Winks" were enjoyed every afternoon- on the swing seat in the garden in warmer months, and tucked up by the fire in winter. 

I think I am craving not only a simpler life at the moment, but also the calm, 'can do' attitude that was a given to them, along with the 'make do' sentiment. No racing, no rushing, no over commitment. 

This weekend I feel a deep desire to step back, take things slow, re evaluate and re appreciate everything in my life. To give time and space to my genuine gratitude, and to reflect a little on how fast time passes, willed or no. 

A sunny day is forecast and dinner with good friends, punctuated with walks and books and restorative sleep is my hope. A weekend to savor indeed. 

 Savoring simple everyday pleasures 

This week has been out of the ordinary in so many ways, which in itself I find rather exhausting. 

"You are in Exactly the right place, at exactly the right time, doing exactly the right thing" Oprah 

This has been a comfort and source of strength and encouragement to me throughout the week in various situations. 

Two things I've had to remind myself of during the last few days:

Not to over commit, some weeks - such as this- it can't be helped, but having a jam-packed schedule sprinkled with a few high stress situations and several late nights left me feeling wrung out and exhausted. 

Thank fully we are having a full but very pleasant long weekend, full of relaxed social engagements, errands, time in the garden and time with each other- So I'm starting to feel more refreshed and relaxed and very grateful for the Monday holiday! For me this involves equal measures of down time, social interactions and fresh air- along with feeling organized and prepared for the coming week. 

Secondly, we have to be prepared for storms- metaphorical ones and the thunder and lightening kind. They're going to happen periodically and while we can prepare to an extent, we can never fully know their full effect until after the fact. It's wise to step back, take stock, plan, make provisions, and approach the "clear up" as an opportunity for fresh growth and new beginnings. 

Recession is very real and evident here at this point. Many business are struggling and in the past week alone 3 large retailers- one a veritable institution of over 140 years, are closing their doors for good. So very sad for all the hundreds of employees and inevitably heartbreaking for the owners and those who's had to make such a hard call.

 Its also been a week where 3 friends/ colleagues have very sadly lost loved ones, not entirely unexpectedly but devastating never the less, and leaving the families understandably reeling. 

Even in these darker moments, we must remind ourselves to seek the good- stay positive, and have faith there is a plan- We are in the right place at the right time doing the right thing....A new business venture comes to the fore as another one wraps up, an opportunity to travel that didn't present itself before, a loved one slipping away peacefully from their pain and suffering after a good long life. A career change that wasn't remotely on the horizon until a turn of events. A special person you are about to meet, a new friendship about to blossom, or reconnecting with an old friend.

My lovely Mum has taken it upon herself to adopt a very elderly cat this week- one of the poor souls who passed away a few days ago left behind her much loved 21 year old cat- yes, 21! So she now has a new home with Grannie- a tentative decision at first but as it turns out a very lovely and gentle union. A pussycat who is well in herself but so advanced in years she cant possibly be here for a huge amount longer, a sweet, petite gentle little thing who's world has been utterly turned upside down, now she and my Mother are keeping each other company and adjusting to their new life together- however temporary- a warm loving, peaceful and  quiet last home for the cat, and an unexpected bit of much missed furry company for a lifetime cat lover. Its really very touching. And of somewhat of a relief to the family left behind that the treasured kitty whom they were unable to take on, has a comforting and supportive new home for as long as she requires it. 

As I type at the kitchen table with a coffee on this grey Sunday morning, a piece of music just came on (KUSC) which just pulled me instantly back about 40 years! It was the music in a story cassette tape I used to listen to in my bedroom as a child of the Secret Garden, Francis Hodgson Burnett. Isn't it extraordinary how a smell or sound can transport you so completely!?  Another timely reminder that our tour here on earth is finite and goes by quickly. We need to savor all these little moments along with the big ones, as its all these compiled that make up our lives. All these events, people, jobs, joys and losses, gains and wins, pets, family, loves and experiences, ultimately make up the rich tapestry of our own lives. 

My Own copy, still treasured; gifted to me by my mother on my 10th Birthday. 36 years ago!

On that note we are off to celebrate a dear friends 50th - which I know she's had a little wobble about, but age truly is just a number, and she's one of the fittest, healthiest people I know and a true friend and inspiration. SO here's to 50 more happy healthy years ahead! Why not!?