The Me-Time Mixtape: Three essential hand-curated links and resources on creative self-care. Carve out some me time this week!

I'm letting go of things. During this past week's spring break, I devoted days to decluttering my NYC apartment. I said "goodbye" to things I held onto for too long because I was wrapped up in memories about them. It finally dawned on me that I had internalized those memories and didn't need the objects anymore.

It was a freeing moment. In today's episode, I explore the pull toward minimalism that I feel in midlife (and yes, I'm calling 60 midlife!) I'm letting go of the things that have increasingly felt like they are weighing me down more than propping me up. I don't need them.

I need time to write, to learn, to read, to snorkel, to sit. The older I get, the fewer things I need, and that is a comforting feeling. ☺️

🎧 Press play and explore how having less might just give you more.

#1 Explore Minimalist Doodling

Ever tried minimalist doodling? Like creating Zentangles, minimalist doodling leans into clean, simple lines and the experience of paring things down to essentials (which may let your thoughts rise to the surface).

Exploring the World of Minimalist Doodle Art: Less is More – Doodle Art Club
In the realm of doodle art, simplicity often speaks volumes. Minimalist doodle art, characterized by its clean lines, subtle details, and often monochromatic pa
Doodle Art ClubAdmin

#2 Essential Oils for Inflammation

I recently had some knee pain (luckily, not common for me), and I wanted to get rid of it fast. Nothing can interfere with my daily walks!! A friend recommended that I rub pure castor oil on my knee. It worked! Within three days, the pain was gone and hasn't returned.

Since then, I've been trying essential oils to calm my restless legs (along with magnesium). Here's a good overview of some oils that may help reduce inflammation and pain.

The Best Essential Oils for Inflammation: How to Use Them
Research has shown that essential oils can help relieve inflammation. Learn more about the best essential oils for inflammation and how to use them.
Verywell HealthAnna Giorgi

#3 What are you noticing?

There's comfort in knowing that as I travel around NYC, the world will show itself to me; sometimes it's a beautiful spring blossom, or an unexpected message on a street sign, or a piece of art showcased on a midtown building. Whatever shape these noticings take, I am assured that they give me something to think about and a moment to reflect mindfully.

Noticing is an important skill. What are you noticing these days? 📨Hit reply and tell me about it.

A reproduction of The Great Wave off Kanagawa on a midtown Manhattan office building
The Great Wave off Kanagawa (on a midtown Manhattan building facade)

Latest Podcast Episode

Episode #53: Stripping Down to Essentials: Exploring Minimalism in Midlife

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BONUS: Check Out My Free Creative Guide to Reduce Overthinking & Worry

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