a few random things no.13

Happy Thursday all! I hope that this evening finds you well. I hope that this time between Thanksgiving and December holidays are giving you peace and calm rather than the franticness that usually permeates throughout. If anything, I see moments of this energy of just being with vs. trying to get everything done and keeping up, and it feels really sweet to me. That there is a turning energy in our society to return to rest and comfort in what brings us joy rather than an attempt at what may bring us joy. 

Me on the other hand am fully enveloped in getting ready to leave for India, after a 4-year hiatus. All I can truly think about is clearing out my refrigerator so that I don't have to end up throwing away a bunch of food, but rather actually being able to use it all in meaningful ways. The challenge is always inspiring, and so far the fruits of my imagination have been lovely. I'm thinking of sharing a few of the products on my Instagram for some inspiration. 

I've also been cherishing these longer, darker nights, despite the moment of panic that sets in at 6pm each night when I think it is actually 10pm, only later realizing that it is in fact only 6pm. I find these what-seem-to-be drastic changes in light and time comforting to say the least--to be able to live in harmony and sync with Mother Nature and her ebbs and flows. It just feels so nourishing. 

To be able to wind down and cozy up with a book, or meditation, or some other sort of reflective practice in these dark nights feels special. The inherent internal shift to relax and become in tune with the simplicity of being with the Self and self feels long awaited after a long summer. Nonetheless, I'm finding peace and enjoying the very intentional slowing down rhythm that has been my life the past few days. 

I'm reminded of the polar nights in these times--where in the North Pole it is dark all day (and night), but then you get these glimmers of the Northern Lights that just permeate through skies--inspiring awe and wonder. In that same vain, the little glimmers of light that just pierce through the darkness of the winter feel so special and something to hold onto and lean into to guide me forward into something the Universe has in store with me. 

It all just feels so right. 

Anyways, here are my few random things that are currently in my brain that I'd like to share with you. Enjoy. :) 

CALM Magnesium Powder. 
I've never been one to not be able to sleep. However, I've been trying to understand the nature of my sleep, and the true quality of it. (No, I don't have an Oura ring or anything like that). The feeling of not feeling rested has been one that I've been dealing with, so sleep has definitely been on my radar. This by itself hasn't been the most effective thing, but 1/2 tsp with 4 ounces of Cherry Juice has been huge for me waking up not tired. I can't say with 100% certainty this is it, per se, but my gut tells me it's part of the reason. 

OUTLIVE by Peter Attia
I've heard Peter Attia on no less than 10 different podcasts in the last year or so. So when he put out his book Outlive, of course I had to buy it. It's been sitting on my nightstand for quite some time now, and I finally picked it up to begin to read. Not that I'm super far in yet, but it's got good prospects. Preventative Medicine is something I'm so passionate about, and a reason that I choose to continue to be in the world of Ayurveda. I'm glad that the West is finally catching up with the science of longevity and the importance of not just solving superficial problems. 

And my one truly random thing, is this amazing neck gaiter that I've fallen in love with. I've been trying to go out for walks more and more in the morning before work, since you know, the days are crazy short. And if you know me, then you know that I typically like things at a balmy 83 degrees. It's been in the upper 20's to low 30's in the AMs. So, of course I have to pack myself up into the best cold weather gear. My sister-in-law once said there's not such thing as bad weather, only bad gear. And it just has freaking stuck. So, long story short, if you're like me, and get cold crazy easily--please go and buy this. It's amazing. I love it. I haven't been cold at all on my morning walks now. You're going to thank me, I promise! Here's the link to purchase. 

I hope you're well and feeling whole this season. I hope you find ways to lean into the darkness to seek the glimmer of light. I hope you feel warm and safe. And if nothing else, know that these truly are my prayers for you. 

much love, 
​n