Inspired this week by Kitty O’Meara’s “In The Time Of Pandemic” poem posted on her lovely blog The Daily Round: Living From The Spirit Level I wanted to share some of the ways I am staying inspired at home during this time of social distancing.
I’d love to hear what you are doing (….or not doing) in the comments below. Please feel free to share your silver linings! We’re all in this together.
XOXO
JENNA
“And the people stayed home. And they read books, and listened, and rested, and exercised, and made art, and played games, and learned new ways of being, and were still. And they listened more deeply. Some meditated, some prayed, some danced. Some met their shadows. And the people began to think differently.
And the people healed. And, in the absence of people living in ignorant, dangerous, mindless, and heartless ways, the earth began to heal.
And when the danger passed, and the people joined together again, they grieved their losses, and made new choices, and dreamed new images, and created new ways to live, and they healed the earth fully, as they had been healed.”
HOME inspiration
I recently received my copy of LIVE BEAUTIFUL by celebrated design expert Athena Calderone. This gorgeous book is a look into how interior designers and creatives decorate their spaces. It is 250+ luscious pages of gorgeous photography and practical, actionable ideas to help inspire you to design your home in a truly personal way.
BOOKS i’m reading
A feast for the eyes, Athena’s stunning COOK BEAUTIFUL includes 100 recipes segmented by season, and artfully presented in her alluring style. Follow along with Athena on her Instagram, @eyeswoon for gorgeous photography and content!
WONDERFOODS by Natalie Savona / especially loving the section on recipies for strengthening your immune system.
LISTEN in
No Filter Podcast Ep. 11 Vintner's Daughter with Danielle Snyder charismatic co-founder of the jewelry brand Dannijo and April Gargiulo, founder of revolutionary skincare brand Vintner’s Daughter.
More Than One Thing Podcast with Athena Calderone / podcast focused on non-traditional career paths, creative endeavors and the ever evasive “multi-hyphenate”. This is a podcast about taking the road less traveled to find your passion and purpose while navigating the hurdles and hoops we all jump through on this personal and creative journey.
hey, girl Podcast with Alex Elle / is a podcast that unites the voices of phenomenal women near and far. Created with sisterhood and storytelling in mind, author Alex Elle sits down with people who inspire her. From friends to family members and strangers, the hey, girl. guests give us a peek into their stories through candid and intimate conversations.
You’re Going To Survive: Mini Audio Book by Alexandra Franzen / True stories from people who’ve endured soul-crushing moments in their careers—failure, rejection, disappointment, public humiliation—and how they got through it, and how you will too.
REST and regenerate
Practicing self-care with as many hot bath soaks as I want, burning vanilla scented candles with a handmade cup of french press coffee (or green tea) in hand, and taking time to breaaaaaathe.
Getting plenty of sleep and boosting my immune system with Echinacea to support my body’s defense system. Also lots of fresh fruit and veggies.
Cultivating a sense of peace, calm and most of all L O V E and understanding for others.
Sweet Potatoes with Crunchy Herb & Fig Chutney
Innovating on Athena’s Eyeswoon Unplugged recipe using what I had on hand.
EXERCISE and stretch
Yoga via YouTube tutorials with Sarah Beth Yoga, and Mary Beth LaRue are inspiring my practice this week and helping me stay strong and feel connected and flexible in body and mind. And not just my usual 20 minutes a day, but going to my mat as needed throughout the day. This feels like such a luxury!
Fresh air via my cozy balcony nook, or a walk in nature sans phone.
Setting intention to keep a high vibration of energy instead of focusing on unknowns.
ART and artisans
Via invitation by Aline Smithson, submit one image to the new LENSCRATCH call. Image submission must describe the idea of self-quarantining: What youve seen, or what you feel. (Humor is always appreciated) #self-quarantining
Consider purchasing art from a local artist to support them during this time. My friend Evan Hestekin has an Etsy page that showcases his gorgeous and soulful HESTEKIN POTTERY pieces.
HELLO FRIEND! I’m JENNA ERICKSON
Founder & Lead Travel Ambassador for OPEN AIR PLACES.
When the time is right for us to come together again, I’ll be able to help you find unique places to stay that will provide solace and healing after this difficult time.
For now you can join me on Instagram at @openairplaces or we can be Friends on Facebook.
xoxo
JENNA