Monthly Spotlight
One of my aims for this journal, is to form a greater connection with you and hopefully build more of a community that inspires creativity and learning. So on this note, every month, I would love to share with you what I am listening, reading, watching, following, practicing and/or just loving every month.
Listening:
A Chinese Farmer by Alan Watts
From time to time, I like to re-listen to this allegorical story I first heard many years ago, when I stumbled upon Alan Watts’ old lectures on YouTube, during late night photo retouching sessions. This story of the Chinese Farmer, I often revert to when I need reminding in my own life, to not judge or label an event or something as neither “good” or “bad” but “it just is”. The story beautifully shows what magic is possible in our own lives, when we practice non-judgement. It reminds us that often in an instant, we cannot see the bigger picture and sometimes we just need to trust in the unfolding, which eventually leads us to exactly where we are meant to be.
Reading:
Wisdom of the Elders by Peter Knudston and David Suzuki
What really surprised me about this book’s content and message, was that it was published way back in 1992 and remains even more poignant for today. To think decades ago, there were a handful of environmental scientists pleading with governments and corporations to take a step back and really listen to the marginalised and decimated indigenous populations. The Wisdom of the Elders examines several indigenous tribes and peoples from all around the world, in how they relate to Nature and their connection to the land and sea. The common thread among indigenous culture it seems, is their deep sense of duty to their environment, as they often see it as an extension of themselves, a being, or like a member of their family. Consequently, they developed sustainable practices for thousands of years before the Capitalist Industrialists changed the surface of the planet. It is a beautiful book, one I will cherish as a reference book, as I love learning more about traditional and indigenous cultures and practices.
Watching:
The Queen’s Gambit on Netflix
It’s been a few years since this limited series was released on Netflix and over the Christmas Break, I felt to watch it a second time. I had forgotten a few scenes in actuality, so it was nice to see it again. I remember the first time I watched it, I was really mesmerised by the set design, all the details in keeping with the period (1960’s mostly) and of course the fashion and makeup that was reminiscent of that era too! Second time around, I focused less on the cinematography and more on the characters and their unique nuances. It always amazes me, how we can watch or read something many times and peel back a new layer, discovering a new perspective each time.
Following:
In keeping in line with the latest book I finished read, this Instagram account - Wisdom Keepers, in actual fact, I’ve been following some years now . This account is so beautiful and inspiring in what it shares about ancient cultures, that are still practiced today. This is a must follow account on socials for some profound insights.
Just loving:
Bluem - Organic, natural and sustainable skincare
I have been following Montana Lower’s creation of Bleum skincare, from the very beginning, as I’ve been a long time fan of hers and everything she stands for. However, I hadn’t yet taken a chance and tried out her skincare line until a month ago. A makeup artist friend, Amanda Barnard, had mentioned to me on a recent shoot, that she has been using it and was really impressed with it. I had wanted to wait until I had used up all of my older skincare lines, before investing in a new skincare brand and as timing would have it, I saw the Bleum Solstice Sales and bought it for myself this Christmas. I have to admit, it’s a really beautiful product and it has got me into a habit of making it a ritual to apply this skincare. After showering, I like to use the fingerlime repair serum. I have observed with both serums, the oils go a very long way with just two drops! And even next day, 24 hours later, I can still feel the hydration. I’ve also seen a difference in the brightness of my skin. I think I’m hooked! I wanted a simplified skincare brand that can do it all, so I don’t have to buy so many products. Best of all, these serums are sustainably made and all natural ingredients, so I don’t feel like I’m poisoning my body through the application of tons of synthetic chemicals on my largest organ (skin).
Hope there was a little golden nugget somewhere in this monthly round up, to add some new discovery for yourself.
Thank you for reading ;-)
