I have never been much of a reader but that all changed when I read a few excerpts from Brianna Weist’s “101 Essays That Will Change The Way You Think.” When my husband lost his job during the pandemic and decided to come work for my design business, I found myself searching for ways to alleviate some of the pressures that come with being the sole bread winner of the family. Don’t get me wrong he is basically the reason why I CAN grow the business because he handles everything surrounding everyday life and I am super lucky to have him as my partner in work, love, life, parenthood but let’s be honest, in any job where income is essential to make an impact on your lifestyle it’s a weight to bare. I discovered meditation a few years ago and was surprised at how much I embraced it. I had always been told to “clear my mind” when it came to stillness and when I couldn’t seem to do that I gave up annoyed that I was doing it wrong. My brilliant mentor Katy Rexing taught me that my busy thoughts are a part of the meditative process not something to be put aside. Meditation is not about clearing your mind and forcing your brain to think happy thoughts it’s about being one with where you are at that moment in time. Once I understood this concept I felt liberated. I try my best to find 5 minutes of stillness each morning to work on my breathing and my mindset and now I’ve added reading to my evening ritual.
Here are a few books that I want to share since so many of you have enjoyed my evenings shares on @gldesignhome.
Brianna Wiest’s writing just resonates with me and her approach to self care is one I aspire to. She is real, refreshing and brutally honest. I love her rawness and find myself inspired with each read.
My friend, store owner of @thebeehivefairfield and fab designer Sandra recently shared “The Four Agreements” book which she reads at the start of every year. This really peaked my interest and boy oh boy do I appreciate her so much. This is a must read, IMO.
I haven’t started “Journey to the Heart” which my friend Liz @purejoyhome recently shared but I can’t wait. That’s the beauty of reading which I guess I am just realizing now…the more you read the more people share their favorites with you which then turns into a back to back incredible journey of reading!
Better late than never I suppose! So I invite you to join me and share your favorites or better yet, share which parts of any of these three books really resonated with you. I will continue to share my late night learnings with you on IG and I look forward to hearing yours. Sending love, kindness and connection.
xo, Gaelle
Namaste