CURRENT JOY GIVERS
It’s been a minute! After a few weeks off over the holidays, I’m feeling more inspired than ever. It’s been a busy few weeks (years TBH)- settling into our new home, helping my sister and BIL do the same, find rhythm as new parents, discover what my new work life looks like. We are finally in a groove and it feels good! My life looks incredibly different than it did a year ago in all the best ways but that doesn’t mean change doesn’t come with challenges. What’s helped me to stay in a positive and healthy mindset is gratitude and continuing to place focus on all the little things that bring me joy. In a season where it can feel easy to get overwhelmed, these joy givers and daily practices keep me grounded:
Honoring my morning & evening routine. This is some of the only uninterrupted ‘me’ time I get so I really cherish it. I like to set myself up for the day by getting up a bit earlier than baby- it never sounds like a good idea but I follow the Mel Robbin’s 5 second rule and it works every time. I like to hydrate, make the bed, unload the dishwasher and plan out my day. My evenings are time to unwind, catchup with my husband, do some self care and prepare for (hopefully) a good night of sleep.
Getting outside. This time of year is Florida’s time to shine!! I don’t want to let the good weather days pass so I’ve been making an effort to get outside everyday and plan fun outdoor activities on the weekends. Besides neighborhood walks, we’ve been at the greenmarket, hiking at the local state park, lots of beach days and more.
Steps. Whether it’s outside or on my new treadmill, I’ve been very consistent with my daily steps. It’s the easiest movement, but so effective and I can really tell the difference on the days I don’t walk as much. It helps with the lymphatic system and was an important part of my pregnancy journey and postpartum recovery.
Group movement. In addition to walking, the only other movement I’ve been doing is teaching (and sometimes attending) group mat sculpt/pilates classes. They are low impact yet effective, and have been my primary source of exercise for over a year now. Plus, the group environment has been so good for my mental health! It keeps me active in the community and engaged with other women who are also working on themselves.
Home projects. Working on our home has been SO fun as of late! We moved this past fall and we are just now feeling truly settled. With that comes lots of inspiration and motivation to put some effort into our space. If there’s anything we’ve learned becoming parents it’s that your home is your sanctuary! I am here all day everyday, and I want to find peace, comfort and happiness from our space. We’re currently working on upgrading our bedroom and next up we home to tackle baby boy’s room, guest room and garage. Stay tuned!
Creative cooking. I was in such a rut in the kitchen for the longest time in early postpartum. Over the past few weeks, I am finally feeling excited about trying new recipes and getting creative with our meals. Food has always been fuel & medicine for me, but it’s also one of my favorite ways to show and give love to others! I’ve really enjoyed fulfilling my passion for cooking over the past few weeks.
Simplifying my self care. I no longer have a million hours to focus on my beauty and wellness routines. Instead, I’ve dialed in my supplements, simplified my skin/body care and habit stack- like drink tea before bed while I do a face mask and journal. I am back on my monthly facials at Sana Skin Studio though! It’s such a treat but it’s much easier for me to find 1 hour a month than a bunch of extra time every day- plus I simply love it too much to stop!!
Rediscovering my career goals. I am beyond grateful to have a husband with the traditional job in order to allow me to be the stole caretaker for our son! But I would be lying if I said I didn’t find myself a bit lost with my career and purpose during those initial postpartum months. Over the last few years I’ve been building up the side-gigs and freelance aspects of my resume which have been what I’ve leaned on now that I no longer have a 9-5. Over the last few weeks I’ve had a lot more clarity over my goals for these endeavors and what I see for myself as an entrepreneur. I know my purpose does not come from my job but it feels good to find some fulfillment in work again!
Nurturing my relationships. Getting back to feeling like myself is not just about “me time” - it’s also about giving time to others. Especially the ones that fill my cup! It has been so amazing having my sister & BIL move down the street. I see them everyday which is the biggest joy giver and tremendous for my mental health! I’ve been intentional about following up with friends and getting plans on the calendar. I even went on a (local) bachelorette! It can be as simple as taking my mom to lunch or going on a phone-free walk on the beach with my husband.
Quality time with baby. If these last few months have taught me anything about time, it’s that it is far too precious and very fleeting. Baby boy is growing rapidly and with every new milestone comes excitement and sadness that he will never be as little as he is in that moment. It’s such a mix of emotions creating and caring for life- it has expanded my heart in every way imaginable. It is far too easy to let the days slip by which is why I remind myself daily to be present and enjoy because I am certain I am living in what will be some of the best days of my life.
I’m beyond grateful for this space. More to come!
xx,
Charlotte