Monday Musings on Stress, Self-Care, and Readers Questions
We had a rainy weekend, which suited me just fine. It feels like I’m behind the eight ball on so many projects, but I decided to just let them go. I made a point of going to the gym…twice. I gave myself an at-home facial and made time to read. Did it lower my stress? Not really, because those projects still need to be done, but I’m probably further ahead than if I’d pushed through and worked all weekend. I’m finally learning that stress and self-care need to be best friends in my life because otherwise, my health suffers.
Habits
I’m reading this book on habits, which I started on the flight home from Portugal. I’m really enjoying the book, but I need to make reading more of a habit.🤣 I downloaded this when it first came out, but couldn’t get into it…until now.
Yang Shen
On the self-care wagon…I ran across this author over the weekend and ordered her book. Have you heard of Yang Shen?
Yang Sheng uses simple practices and daily activities to bring our bodies into balance and harmony with nature. The focus is on maintaining balance through an awareness of our connection to nature, to our own bodies, and to the spirit. It is about making a habit of simple techniques like eating mindfully, breathing practices, great sleep, gentle exercise, and Qigong to improve the quality of your self-care.
While I was there, Amazon suggested this Ayurvedic self-care book which I have put on my wish list. I’m already a fan or Ayurvedic principles, but know my reading time is limited so am making myself finish one before ordering another.
Cool Based Fall Separates
It’s finally cool enough to start wearing some layers, which feels so good! Layering is one of my favorite ways to zhuzh up an outfit so I had some fun playing with my new J. Crew long sweater blazer. I’d debated which color made the most sense for me and really wanted the beige. In the end, I decided charcoal made more sense in my fall wardrobe. This long cardigan runs really large so I ordered the XS and it fits perfectly.
I wore it with my Quince cashmere tee which is a perfect weight for this time of year. The lovely surprise was how nicely my Talbots paisley scarf coordinated with them both. Gray, navy, lavender, and burgundy are such a classic combo for women with cool coloring. When I wear those colors, I know I can rely on them to all blend.
Reader Questions:
Q- What socks do you recommend?
I really like these cushioned no-show socks for working out and wearing in my low-profile booties. I bought the white, but they also come in colors and have a compression version which I’m intrigued to try.
Q: What is the latest update on your hair?
Well… the verdict is still not in. Some days, it feels like I lose a clump in my brush, others not so much. I’m still using the 5% Rogaine and plan to continue. The trichologist I visited suggested I use Nizoral shampoo once a week to reduce inflammation in my hair follicles, so I’m doing that.
I am also trying a Capillus laser cap and will let you know how it goes.
Q: Do you have a plan when you start shopping for the season and do you think only in terms of outfits?
I think of the season ahead as soon as things start showing up on websites. I do a lot of looking before I do any personal shopping because I do a lot of scouting for the blog, which gives me a good view of what’s out there.
I go through what I already own to decide if I still enjoy those styles. Then I think about the colors and shapes that will work into what I already own. If I am bored with my style (I have been), I begin to look through my accessories and plan which new ones could spruce up my look.
I do think of outfits but always purchase separately. I never buy matched outfits, but I think you can get a lot of inspiration from the way retailers pair their items.
What self-care practices serve you best when your life feels stressful?
Thanks for reading and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
When shopping I am basically a loner as usually on a mission so really no fun to shop with as seldom browse in-store; whereas online I will search the globe and definitely appreciate blogs like yours, looking for that specific item ….☺. As to self-wellness and having gone down the rabbit-hole of physio therapy exercises in the past (due to an old back injury and now being diagnosed with osteoporosis resulting in two new compression fractures) I now do exercises that I have found on YouTube that have helped immensely both in pain management and range of movement. (Given your permission Jennifer, I will gladly share the channel if you like.) Last but not least; do love the outfit you put together and would wear it in a heart beat. -Brenda-
Please do share the channel, Brenda! We’re all in this together. I prefer working out at home♥️
Search: YouTube – Bob and Brad Physical Therapists / Sara Meeks . Then scroll for the page titled The Osteoporosis Physical Therapist (1 year ago) where there is a (very lengthy) link provided for ‘her playlist’ that you can activate which I feel will also educate. Also I am going to add for the exercises themselves, you do not need a table or use the floor as they can be done on most beds if you improvise. -Brenda-
Thank you so much Brenda! I have seen some of Bob and Brads videos. They’re great!!
Hi Jennifer,
I so love the look thank you for the lavender and grey lovey paring. I too am feeling overwhelmed by the world right now and need self care so l often forgo the news and instead put on my favorite music while cooking,or light a candle and snuggle down reading. My favorite right now is Louise Penny and Inspector Gamache. Happy week !
I love your self-care rituals. Happy Monday
Hi Jennifer, I ordered the Talbot’s scarf you have on last week! It looks even prettier “in person” on you, now I can’t wait for it to arrive. I am feeling exhausted today after a too busy week and in great need of some rest and self-care, so I’ll be rereading today’s post, thanks!
You’ll love it! Please take extra care of yourself.
I love your outfit Jennifer. It looks lovely on you. I love JCrew’s sweater blazers, but I have found they run very large. What size did you purchase?
Thank you!
I am wearing the XS so they do run huge!
Love your outfit! I would never have purchased lavender but now it’s a must!
Lol. It’s a great color
I had to look up tricologist – a new word! My dermatologist prescribed a shampoo for my scalp, and it’s covered by insurance. Can paramedics (like tricologists) write prescriptions?
p.s. To those who describe you as short, please be aware that a lot of us are shorter than you are. “petite” sounds less judgmental.
My trichologist can not write prescriptions, I don’t know about paramedics. I went to my primary care and dermatologist with her report and that’s who I rely on for medical advice.
Hello Jennifer. Thank you for your great posts. I’m always very interested in your hair posts. I agree with the comments that your hair looks great and much more full in these pictures. I’m wondering if you are still using Nutrafol and if you feel it has made a difference.
I used Nutrafol for years until my derm and the trichologist both suggested I could duplictae the ingredients for much less.
The long charcoal cardigan and cool colors look very good on you. I understand hair troubles but I have been looking at your recent blog photos and I think it looks great!
Thank you!
I think that is my favorite photo of you,you look amazing!
Thank you so much!
I just started doing cold plunge for self-care, my studio just opened up the first cold plunge in our area and I am loving it, I know it sounds more like torture than self-care but honestly, I can’t recommend it enough. It supports the immune system, reduces inflammation in the body by enhancing blood circulation, your mood is instantly lifted – I encourage you to give it a try
I have heard great things about cold plunges.
Self care… walk , fresh air, Zumba , a giggle with a friend, a hug.🥰
All fabulous!
I love the lavender cashmere sweater on you. Perfect outfit with the scarf, cardigan and sweater with the jeans. How do the Quince sweaters run? I am tall and usually wear a large. I do not want it too tight or too big.
And thanks for the suggestions on the books. I too am on a holistic journey.
I think they run TTS. I wear a medium. They’re not too long so I wouldn’t buy too small a size.
Just read an article about Sanjay Gupta: every Monday am, he goes outside
early in the am before the sun is up with his coffee. I did it
this morning and saw Venus in a crystal clear sky. The moment was magical.
And calming. A form of self care.
That’s beautiful!! What a great idea.
Jennifer, I want to find a home facial that I can do for myself. Driving to and from appointments is getting more difficult for me. I have been reading online, but there are so many options. I want to improve my skin, which is on the dry side. . Do you have any suggestions of what to look for or any products you have tried? Thanks for keeping us up to date.
There are lots of steam systems online. It really depends what you’re looking for. I like to use oils and facial massage because I have dry, sensitive skin.
Hi Diana, just to chime in, i have very sensitive skin and I’ve been using Fresh Rose Face Mask..It leaves my face soft, tones down the redness and sensitivity..actually a lot of the Fresh products are wonderful..and Jennifer always has great suggestions..
Nancy (just another reader)
Thanks Jennifer for a great post. I tried a Sound Bath for the first time and it incredibly relaxing. I highly recommend. I make sure I find time for exercise and relaxation techniques to give me purpose and grounding.
I’d love to find another sound bath and give it another try. My first one wasn’t that soothing. Thanks for reminding me! Relaxation techniques are really helpful for me. Quiet time is critical for me.
It’s starting to get cooler here so I’m looking to get my winter clothes out. Every year there are items that I wonder what I was thinking. Those get donated. I need to think more about self care. Our last home had a Jacuzzi tub that I loved to soak in. I just realized how much I miss that. I love your outfit today!
It’s fun to layer. I’m so glad it’s cooling off!
Your hair looks beautiful and the outfit you are wearing is extremely flattering. The long sweater coat, even tho you are fairly short, is lovely. The colors put together are over the top!
Thanks Marilyn. I’m planning to wear the long cardigan again today with other pieces and so glad it’s cooled off.
Love the Ella cardigan from J Crew. I’ve been eyeing it for a while. What size did you buy? Reviews say it runs large. I’m usually most comfortable in a medium, but sounds like a small would be smarter. I’m similar in size to you.
I’m wearing an XS! I forgot to add that. I’ll do it now.
I looked at your photos above and thought “your hair treatments look like they are working well”. To me your hair looks much fuller.
Thanks. I do use tons of products too. Some days it feels ok, others it’s not. My fingers are crossed and I’m hopeful.
Self care = yoga, long walks
Perfection!
Completely agree. Yoga with Adrienne is the best. I have a broken ankle, but her neck / head yoga is great. I also recommend weights / resistance bands.
Good morning Jennifer, I like shopping separately for my outfits however, I never gave it much thought until you mentioned it, thank you. I also like shopping by myself, always have, I’m starting to think I must be selfish?
Have a great day
Nope! You’re smart. It’s too easy to get influenced to buy what’s not right for us when we shop with others.