What Makes You Feel Good?

I was listening to the most recent episode of one of my favorite podcasts, The Friend Zone, and in one of the segments, the lovely Fran asked, "what would your mental health kit consist of?" I loved that question because I immediately thought of all the things that calm me and bring me a sense of peace. My mental health kit consists of both tangible and intangible things because it's my list and I can do what I want, okay?

My Spotify account. Music - it's like oxygen for me. I can't live without it. It's a part of my everyday life, and if I'm feeling down, it's sure to lift my spirits, even if temporarily.  When I'm looking to zone out and retreat to my zen state, my usual choice of music is jazz. Jazz is the cure for those moments when I want to be present; I also enjoy listening to it when I am online searching for inspiration for my blog. It's relaxing and less distracting than other genres of music. My current favorite jazz vibes? Gary Bartz's The Shadow Do! LP and my Mizell Brothers playlist. More like all-time favorite jazz vibes.

My Moments of Mindfulness book. It's packed with inspirational and encouraging quotes because sometimes you just need to be reminded. It was such an easy read. I finished it in one sitting which isn't hard to do with this style of book. I absolutely love it.

I'm really big on creating ambiance and setting the mood, which may seem odd to some since I don't currently have a significant other to benefit from this. But the truth is, my home envrionment must exude a romantic vibe. Funny that Fran talked about this in this week's episode as well, and I can totally relate, because creating a sensual ambiance has been my thing for many years, so I was pleasantly surprised to know that someone else gets it! She said it best; "Sensuality calms me." I love that quote. I love coming home, lighting candles, playing music that compliments the mood I'm setting, dim lighting, the whole nine. A calm and peaceful living environment is a must-have item for my mental health kit.

It's mandatory that I throw a bottle of Sauvignon Blanc in for good measure, because why not? A little Kim Crawford never hurt anyone, and seriously, what exactly is a mental health kit without a little libation?

Being aware of those things that bring you a sense of serenity, whether tangible or intangible, is knowing what to keep close to your heart and what to immerse yourself in daily, and that includes the wine. Immerse yourself in the wine.

Photo credit: Martha Stewart

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