Currently we're running through a Z-A of activities to try, in order to manage stress and anxiety and support self-care.
N is for Naps, Narnia & Nature
Now here is a letter that helps us navigate the longest winter period and enables us to nurture our souls. N nudges us towards two everyday super tonics and nods to an epic imaginary universe.
What to do more of: Nap
I'm always harping on about the importance of rest, particularly sprinkled across the day. A power nap is an ideal way to achieve this. Between 10-30 minutes, there are enormous benefits to getting some shut-eye in a comfortable space.
These include:
Due to the short amount of time a power nap covers, you can fit one into your day more easily. Clients can experience a form of power nap during sessions with me.
Most other animals are hibernating right now. It makes perfect sense for us to do a mini version.
What to celebrate: Narnia
C.S Lewis's extraordinary novel 'The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe' celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. It's returning to theatre, with a major UK tour planned.
The magical land of Narnia, reached through the iconic wardrobe, is world building genius in my mind. The themes of courage, good vs evil and friendship are timeless.
If you're completely new to this epic, you might want to read the book, watch the films or find the show nearest you in 2025. If you've grown up with the story, I encourage re-doing any or all of the above! Not to sound like a pre-emptive review here, but it's a delight for children and adults alike. Reminding us how incredible the imagination can be, with tips on embracing a very cold place!
What to immerse yourself in: Nature
Do you live near a park or woodsy area? Spending time surrounded by trees and wildlife has more of an impact on our mental health than strolling around roads. We don't even have to spend that long in nature to feel the benefits. Surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers (or at least where they would have been at this time of year.) That glorious pine smell. Birds calling to each other. The rough textures of the leaves - or soggy as they currently are. It's a great way to practice mindfulness and let the fresh air provide some clarity.
Best of all - this experience is free!
What novel words:
Neologism
A great one for those of us who love words. It's about introducing new ones! Also different meanings of phrases. I might even like to suggest it's a movement of support towards The Matrix's hero, Neo. :-)
Nostalgia
I've always loved this, but not been completely aware of its actual meaning. "A wistful desire to return in thought or in fact to a former time in one's life, home, or family and friends; a sentimental yearning for the happiness of a former place or time." People often get a certain look on their faces when lost in nostalgia - beautiful!
Nourish
This has many meanings but I feel the most ‘nourishing’ are:
Nuzzle
Conjures the image of a pet or loved human snuggling up and showing affection with their nose. It’s cute and cosy.
I hope the letter N is full of niceties for you in January.
Monday 13th January, 11:23am
O is for Observatories, Odes & Ordinary Angels
We use a lot of O to express ourselves – OK, Oh! Ooh! The latter perfectly encapsulating a feeling of contentment and wonder. Here is a letter which helps us appreciate the incredible power of human nature, everyday entities and what’s far beyond our world.
What to visit: Observatories
Gazing at the stars or learning about our place in space provides us with a sense of awe. Knowing how tiny we are in comparison to the vast map of the universe can actually be quite comforting. Taking us out of difficult feelings and inserting some perspective.
You could spend a fortune on telescopes (especially if you don’t already have the room and set up in your life.) Or you could have a lovely day out instead, at one of the many great astronomical observatories in the UK. Where there are fascinating talks from experts too. I’d highly recommend the Royal Observatory in Greenwich.
What to create: Odes
Writing a lyric poem is not only a fun activity (particularly if you include inanimate objects) but also a great expression of gratitude. Who or what do you appreciate most in the last month of the year? How can you put that love into words? Don’t fancy writing? You can read other people’s odes. Here are some to giggle about.
What to watch: Ordinary Angels
Released this year, Ordinary Angels is a heart-warming tale about one woman’s quest to save a stranger’s very ill daughter. Based on a true story, it comes with a moderate ‘tear’ warning. It’s also about the power of community against all odds.
Things to watch out for:
I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a bad film with Hilary Swank in it so the film doesn’t disappoint. The movie is currently available via Amazon Prime with a cost attached but availability changes all the time.
What overlooked words:
Oasis
Not the band (although personally I love them too!) The calm and peaceful centre of a hectic and unpleasant place. This word can teach us a lot.
Olfactory
A fascinating area where smell is connected with memory. I like to think of it as old-factory.
Omnipresent
Despite sounding exhausting, wouldn't it be lovely to be present (mindful) in all places?
Ooze
Could easily be a bit gross but somehow dodges it. Is it the shape our mouth makes to say it? I also love the term ‘ooze with charisma.’
I hope the letter O opens your mind and heart in December.
Friday 13th December, 11:31am
P is for Pajamas, Pan Pipes & Papier Mache
P is a letter that promises plenty of possibility for that 'snuggle under a blanket' feeling as much as it does for playful pursuits. Here are your pickings.
What to wear: Pajamas
The epitome of comfy and cosy, especially as we descend into the winter months. Putting them on at night sends a signal to our brains that it's time to wind down, inviting rest and sleep in. For some of us, pajamas even became day-wear during the lockdowns. So many materials, patterns and colours to choose from. They're a great way to express our personalities too.
Even if you already have numerous sets, take some time to truly appreciate them this month. Can you mix and match or try out a bold new style?
My favourite PJs are pictured above. It's the hoodie top that sold it for me!
What to listen to: Pan Pipes
The sound of pan pipes is both soft and haunting. The woody vibe is a reminder of ancient times and even has a wonderful tribal feel to it. If you're looking for some inspiring background music while you work, study or play, this instrument won't disappoint. It's another one that's also great for sleep too.
And by all means, try making this beautiful noise yourself if you can get your hands on some pan pipes.
What to try: Papier Mache
This art form was magical to me as a child. Covering objects (mainly balloons) with paper and glue, then waiting for them to dry, and removing the centre. There was always a sharp intake of breath and a gasp of delight the next day. After, the opportunity to paint and decorate. It feels like many crafts in one and is fairly easy to do. Light warning though - it's very messy. In fact, the messier you get the better.
What phenomenal words:
Paradise A dream state or destination, real or imaginary. There are many positive connotations here. It could be extreme visual beauty or a relaxing escape.
Perky An upbeat and cheerful collection of letters. We all need more of these.
Phosphorescent Like its meaning, the pronunciation (and spelling) of this word makes one feel radiant and luminous.
Poppycock What a funny word for what is basically nonsense. Imagine it said in a posh accent.
I hope the letter P provides permission to prioritise yourself in November.
Wednesday 13th November, 10:38am
Q is for Quartz, Quiet time & Quizzes
The letter Q has quite the quilt of everyday and slightly mysterious offerings. It’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone or be reminded of what can (and will) work for you on a regular basis.
What to try: Quartz
I believe crystals have healing powers. Quartz is one of the most impressive varieties, occurring in many shapes and colours. It’s a good one for balancing energy and finding calm. You can wear it in jewellery, place in the palm of your hand for meditation or under a pillow to aid sleep.
What to allow yourself: Quiet time
I cannot recommend this enough. Whether it’s during moments of stress or while you're on holiday, quiet time is essential for processing emotions and life events. Be it good or bad. Inner quiet (meditation perhaps) or a physical silent space. Maybe even a mixture of both. Even if you’re a really busy person, scheduling just 5 minutes of calm will make such a difference.
What to enjoy: Quizzes
The great thing about quizzes is they keep our brains active and focused. We can watch them on TV or form teams in local venues. There’s many varieties, so something for everyone. Sometimes prizes are up for grabs too!
What quality words:
Quest
There’s nothing like a challenge or adventure to take us out of ourselves for a bit. They are also really fun.
Quill
The creative writer in me loves the idea of quill and ink. Those gorgeous feathers. The word conjures up countless scenes from period dramas and fantasy films.
Quintessential
Defined as ‘representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class’, this word can be a bit smug. It both sounds and looks good on the page.
Quirky
I believe we should celebrate our individuality, the quirks that make us great people. We all have them.
I hope the letter Q quenches your thirst for positivity and calm in October.
Sunday 13th October, 11:00am
R is for Railway walks, Recommendations & Reminiscing
For a really common letter, R is rustling with a rich range of options. This month we can reflect on the past, relish the present and ready ourselves for the future. Or maybe you’ll just find this a relatable read.
What to try: Railway walks
Do you often spend large parts of a train journey staring out the window at the changing landscape? Me too! Depending on where you're travelling to or live, the tracks wind around some pretty breath-taking sights. Although we can't use the railway to reach some places anymore, the lines still exist. Walking is a much slower way to appreciate bygone journeys while observing our current surroundings. Next on my list is the, very much missed, route from Maidenhead to High Wycombe. So watch my social media posts later this Autumn.
What to make and take: Recommendations
I love overhearing folk saying "I've been listening to this amazing podcast about... and I know you'd enjoy it." When those people have checked it out themselves, there's a beautiful shared knowledge. Discussions around specific bits that stood out. I'm lucky enough to have recommendations for books, films, music and even restaurants coming from all directions. I've got to say it's hugely satisfying to be able to introduce new gems to my networks and clients too. I believe the more we share, the more we learn and it's a key way to keep a sense of youth.
What to experience: Reminiscing
Thinking back to pleasurable prior events and experiences can have a positive effect on mental health and wellbeing. This is particularly true of the elderly population. I remember my Granny's face lighting up whenever she spoke about growing up in Oxford. We can get lost in nostalgia (another lovely sounding bunch of letters), for a while, reliving and recollecting joyful times. Especially involving loved ones who may no longer be around. What made those moments so special? Are there elements that you can bring into the here and now? Smell is a powerful tool.
What rousing words:
Radiant
The great thing here is the mixing of definitions in people. Shining, bright with joy, hope etc. It's a wonderful compliment to tell someone they are looking radiant!
Realm
Could easily be interpreted as fantastical, especially in film and TV. What a fab description: "the region, sphere, or domain within which anything occurs, prevails, or dominates."
Recondite
This is quite a mysterious word, difficult to pin down in meaning because it's obscure and little known. Ha! Don't you just love it when an explanation mirrors the term?
Rejuvenate
Fresh air and a change of scenery are two common ways to restore us to a previous state or make us feel new.
I hope the letter R leaves you feeling refreshed in September.
Friday 13th September, 12:27pm