Smelling the flowers

Dearest,

How are you? How is your jaw in this moment - relaxed or unconsciously clenched? Take a moment to relax it, let it drop, wiggle gently from side to side. Checking in with ourselves often reveals tensions we didn’t even know we were carrying. I need to do it more often!

As I write to you today the sun is streaming in and warming my back. The steam from my peppermint tea swirls, sharing its aroma with the room. Flowers from the local market sit proudly in the middle of the dining table. Despite being over a week old they are still a mix of vivid reds and burgundy interupted with fresh whites that have splashes of pink and yellow.

Within the softness of the flowers, rigid and stron gum and conifer sprigs create a feast for the senses. All so different yet all blend beautifully - we humans could learn a thing from bouquets.

When did you last have fresh flowers in your home? Was it a celebration due to a special occasion or did they mark a sombre passing of someone you loved? What’s your favourite or do you even like fresh flowers?

I can’t choose a favourite and in some ways I’ve always wondered how anyone chooses a favourite anything. Colour, food, music, places - my tastes are so eclectic, if I was a piece of art I would definitely be an abstract.

Perhaps if you do have a favourite something you can find a way to enjoy it this week. Catching up with true friends or peaceful alone time. Moving your body in a way that sends feel good vibes racing through every part of your beautiful and unique temple.

I hope that you can prioritise something that triggers joy in you or you get to experience awe - perhaps even both! Keep those beautiful eyes open to all the beauty that we pass by each day, in every moment.

Take care dearest - of yourself, of others, of your thoughts, of your actions and of our wonderful world.

You are worthy, always.

Ngā manaakitanga