The November Digest
I tend to categorize phases (a week, a month, a quarter) into two plots: intake or output.
And November, by far, was an output month, though the outcomes are still mid-reaping. I spent most of November doing my best to keep my head above water - blessings, all of it - and relying solely on my multiple calendars, planners, organizational tools, and mindset practices for some semblance of stability.
As a result, there’s less than usual to share on the front of reading and watchlists. That’s the most jarring testament to the general insanity of November - not reading, at minimum, one book a week. But my usual nightly reading time was well-allotted elsewhere: two photoshoots, multiple acupuncture appointments, dinners and birthday celebrations, Thanksgiving, my mom’s whirlwind visit, weekly industry panels and workshops, daily movement practices… to name a few.
So here’s what I can offer this month: a few of the things that supported me through it. An exercise in pivoting, flowing with the grain instead of clinging too tightly to my safety structure and “should” behavior. Dare I say… holiday gift guide edition?
THE RECOMMENDS
If you haven’t heard of Clint Ober’s pioneering Earthing practices or watched Rebecca Harrell Tickell and Josh Tickell’s The Earthing Movie (on YouTube in full!), it will challenge everything you think you know about our connection to the earth. I keep this mat under my desk, though there are other options including throw blankets, fitted sheets, and mattress covers. My family will be finding quite a few grounding products under the tree this year…
Earthing, or Grounding, is the practice of making direct physical contact with the Earth’s surface (walking barefoot on grass, soil, sand, or in water).
Scientific research is still developing, though proponents believe it helps balance the body’s electrical charge and offers a range of physical and mental health benefits, including: reduced inflammation, improved, sleep, enhanced mood and reduced stress, pain reduction, improved energy levels, better cardiovascular health, accelerated recovery and healing, strengthened immune function, and regulation of the nervous system.
Short on time? Watch the 15-minute Earthing short film as a launching point.
The Outset: Nourishing Squalane Daily Moisturizer
I have sensitive skin, and I’ve been a tried-and-true Embryolisse advocate as my daily daily moisturizer for years before trying The Outset. Scarlett Johansson’s brand far surpasses the hype of typical celebrity product endeavors, and I’m itching to add other products from the line into my daily lineup. I also love how they offer a more sustainable (and cost-effective) option of buying refill pouches, rather than a new bottle or container every time.
Vitruvi Diffusers & Humidifiers
I’ve had Vitruvi’s Stone Diffuser on my bedside table for years; it’s a non-negotiable in my bedtime routine. Up next: trying one of their diffuser blend kits… once I finally make a dent in the gallon-sized Ziplock of essential oil bottles sitting in my closet.
(And, if you want a more budget-friendly option, I’ve also used and can vouch for an Amazon alternative here.)
Somehow, amidst the chaos of this month, I’ve managed to find time to deep dive into flower remedies and tinctures, pioneered by Dr. Edward Bach. I think Alexis Smart is just the coolest, and as of late I’ve been experimenting on this path in tandem with other tools to support my healing journey.
Not sure where to begin? Visit Alexis’ website to take the Remedy Quiz: Alexis or one of her trained apprentices will get back to you personally with a recommendation of which treatment to start with. Note: they’re designed to be used one at a time, rather than mixing multiple remedies (although First Aid Kit can be used at any time in conjunction with other remedies).
Deep dive on all of this to come in a later blog post; Alexis’ episode on the SOUNDFOOD Podcast is another fantastic intro point.
I picked this affirmation deck up at Muse House Retreat, one of my favorite shops in LA (head a few stores down to Aroma for a coffee and pastry after you browse). I’ve quickly fallen in love with the practice of drawing a card after my morning meditation and journaling; it sets the tone for the day ahead and keeps me grounding, with a new mantra carrying me through each moment. Joanna Hunter’s affirmations in this deck are supportive, bright, and resonant (unlike some other, ahem, cheesy decks out there). Shop here.
If you’re not lucky enough to live within driving distance of Sweet Laurel’s bakery in the Palisades, don't worry: you can still purchase their infamous cakes, baking mixes, and cookbooks (sweet and savory) online. They’re paleo, keto, gluten-free, refined sugar-free, and have plenty of vegan options available. I’d recommend all of their products and baked goods with everything in me - whether or not you and your loved ones have dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
And if you can drive to the Palisades… their bakery case is to die for. Trust me.
Manifesting Your Mission Guidebook
I’ve been using this guidebook (written by my incredible mentor Brianna Brown Keen) for two years now, am starting my third in January, and it’s become indispensable to how I approach my days, weeks, months, and annual goal-setting. I use it every single day.
Tip: If you purchase your guidebook before January 1st, you’ll receive a complimentary spot in her annual Zoom goal-setting workshop on January 12th. The pages are undated, so you can start ushering your goals into reality at any time. But isn’t there a little extra magic about January 1st?
This isn’t a physical gift, but an indispensable recommendation: if you’re a dues-paying member of SAG-AFTRA, and you’re not taking full advantage of what the SAG-AFTRA Foundation has to offer, you’re woefully missing out. I go to a panel, Q&A, retrospective, workshop, or seminar once a week, minimum - and they’re all free.
The SAG-AFTRA Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering comprehensive professional development and educational resources as well as emergency financial and health assistance programs to SAG-AFTRA artists nationwide. They have gorgeous new facilities on the Penthouse level of the SAG-AFTRA building on Wilshire; it’s a fantastic way to get in the room with some of your heroes, network amongst your fellow artists, or attend screenings of films when movie tickets aren’t always a budget priority.
Bonus: Immune System Support
Feeling the holiday chaos, stressors, and seasonal shifts? My two secret weapons for immune support (along with the ungodly amount of vitamins I take daily) are Mary Ruth’s Elderberry Liquid Drops and Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis Throat Spray. I take a dropper of elderberry and four throat sprays every single morning. And for another boost: incorporate electrolytes like E-Lyte (my current favorite; flavorless) or LMNT into your daily water intake.
Not medical advice, just support that keeps me feeling good.
And as we enter December: breathe, remember to put support systems in place for yourself first, and run at the rest of your goals for 2024 as hard as you can. If you’re feeling anxiety or overwhelm at the prospect of looming family time, revisit this space on the third Wednesday of December; the next blog might be for you.
December Mantra: I am fully equipped to receive my highest good.
