7 Things, Volume 4

WHAT I’M UP TO

I got my very first astrological reading this weekend — big moment! I like reading horoscopes, but this was far more in-depth and specifically targeted to the individual (they asked for my birth date, time and place to create the chart). The reading happened after taking a class called Heaven in Earth hosted by Sprout Home, which admittedly wasn’t as useful as the private sessions but was highly enjoyable nonetheless, especially if you’re a plant lover and want to understand more about each sign of the zodiac.

WEEKLY INTENTIONS

Reporting back from last week: I did pretty well with a second go at my weekly intention to focus on what can be done, versus what cannot. I was more productive, and stressed less about what was left. Instead of making long, unattainable lists of goals, I’ve been focusing on forward movement… which brings me to this week’s (and new month’s) intentions:

My intention this week: Find your voice in difficult situations – whether it’s focusing on the internal dialogue or speaking out loud.

My intention this month: There is only forward movement.

My intention this year: Perform. Stay on your own mat. Move how you feel, from what your body is asking you to do, and don’t mind what others are doing or thinking.

SEVEN THINGS

Transformations. My favorite stories are always ones of personal transformation. This man’s story about 60 consecutive days of yoga isn’t particularly verbose, but a picture is worth a thousand words. Just look at his eyes.

Seeing stars with Bess. Her whimsical, nostalgic approach to astrology was especially appealing for an astrology newbie. Also, she’s a PhD in Urban Geography and enjoys a good throwback tune. I’d highly recommend seeing her for a reading or one of her workshops. If you do, tell her you found her here!

Hyper local gifting. Remedies Herb Shop has put together some gorgeous, all-natural and plant-based gifts for the holidays, and this one is especially great for Brooklyn dwellers or lovers.

Uplift 002. A mindful Saturday morning art walk and mindfulness meditation at the Zwirner gallery sounds like a spectacular way to start the weekend. If you’re in New York, I’d highly encourage it, as it’s only $22.09 — which is less than a boozy brunch.

Creative journaling. I’ve had a journal of some kind since third grade. While I wish I’d kept up more in my college years, it’s one of those things I always turn back to when the going gets tough. I don’t agree with the writer when she says journaling is a replacement for meditation, but I do agree we should cut ourselves from slack. The easier we make this task, the more likely we are to do it, and it’s the repeated practice that will bring insights and revelations.

Kayla Itsines. After a full year of ruminating, I’ve decided to give the Kayla Istines method a try. There are a lot of things about it I would change right off the bat, but the insanely amazing transformations and recommendations from friends who’ve tried and love it have got me wondering. If you’ve tried it, I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments. The photo above is me when I allowed myself to follow a diet and exercise regimen I loved, and I cannot wait to do it again. It felt so good.

Conscious splurging. I splurged and bought these booties after not purchasing anything clothing or accessories for myself this year, other than dresses for others’  weddings, and my own wedding dress. Spending more on less is a huge part of conscious consumption that’s honestly not as easy as it sounds… there are tons of temptations all the time! I’m excited about these because their versatility and durable Italian leather promises years of wear.