mind-body wellness favs from my fav season
I’m always a bit apprehensive at the end of summer – I sometimes wish I could hang onto it for another week or two and squeeze all I can out of this juicy season.
I’ve also, however, come to terms with the fact that it would be much more empowering to celebrate what I did (even if things didn’t go quite as expected) instead of sulking over all the things I wish I could have done.
I took an epic hike in the alps and conquered doubts that came with it, visited family in the US, laughed with old friends, remembered those who have passed on, attended a beautiful wedding in France, swam, ate, walked, taught, coached, yoga-ed, read…
I also nursed a very sore hip after said epic hike, sliced my finger on a can (I’m fine!) worked through more doubts about myself and my trajectory, had a lot of alone time, made it through a few jet lagged days of very funky sleep (she’s fine!)…
Whatever the weather, each season has its ups, downs, and in-betweens.
All we can do is do our best to stay present with each moment instead of anxiously anticipating the future or dwelling on the past, take care of ourselves and our loved ones as much as we can, and move forward as mindfully as possible.
Here are a few favorites that kept me nourished this summer – with sustainability in mind – if you’re already looking forward to next year, or expecting a few more weeks of the sunny season:
skin
- Living Libations and Osea skincare: great for face and body, especially after being in the sun.
- Badger, Living Libations, and Seaweed Bath Co sun care (Alphanova or Kerbi in France): toxin-free protection for long exposure.
apparel
- Pact organic cotton dresses and sun hat: versatile, timeless, travel-friendly.
- Sézane dresses second-hand / for half the price on Vinted: I vow to wear these every summer until they fall apart.
- MAMAZOO swimsuits: made from eco-conscious materials, very adorable.
wellbeing
- Electrolytes: Hey Freya, LMNT, and Flavcity. Hydration supports optimal health and immunity, especially during the warmer months and travels.
- Propolis (oral or nasal): helped keep me pretty healthy, even when jet lag got me.
- Peppermint oil: mix with almond or coconut oil and rub onto temples (away from eyes) after heat or travel-induced headaches. Inhale it for wooziness / fatigue.
- Lavender oil: mix with coconut oil and massage into the skin after being in the sun, and for actual sunburns. Works well and feels great.
- Peppermint tea: brew and let cool for a refreshing and cooling beverage.
eats
- Bamboo to-go utensils: these live in my backpack and always come in handy.
- Pasta with seasonal veggies: my go-to is a pasta of choice with sautéed zucchini and cherry tomatoes, topped with olive oil and goat cheese, feta, or parmesan.
- Siete grain free lime chips in the US: the most delicious chips on planet Earth?
- Summer fruits: berries, stone fruits, and watermelon. Perfect.
- Divya’s Ayurvedic smoothie mixes and no-cook grains x veggies: easy, healthy, tasty, and doesn’t require a stove or oven.
self-care
- Books: I have enjoyed some great Kindle reads this summer thanks to the Libby app: Chocolat and Peaches for Monsieur le Curé, Tom Lake, The Bear (not the series!), Conscious Luck, and Sacred Nature.
- Acupressure mat: felt so good on my back after traveling.
- Simple meditation: I listen to the “Deep Om” ambient sound on Insight Timer and guide the attention back to the sounds around me, sensations, thoughts, etc.
- Simple movement: Nikki’s virtual Iyengar classes, walks, swims, indoor climbing, biking, resistance bands, my home yoga and yoga core (FR) practices.
What’s been supporting you so far this season, and what are you looking forward to next year (even if it turns out differently than you expected)?
Take good care,
S
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