I don't claim to be great at everything, but I do think that if there's one thing I'm pretty great at, it's living with intention. Intentional living has helped me feel fulfilled, has helped me find my purpose, and has helped me find joy and value in every experience - big, small, happy or sad - and as the final days of the year approach, and we embark on a fresh year ahead, I've found myself taking note of the places, people, experiences and moments that make me feel my finest.
I feel at my finest when I am feeding my son a nutritious, plant-based meal. It isn't always easy, but I have no shame in relying on meal services (my favorite is Green Chef). I love to blend any leftovers and use ice-cube trays to freeze them into perfectly portioned servings for my little man.
Another mom trick I have up my sleeve? The Baby Center App. It quickly and efficiently answers any question I have ever had about motherhood, babyhood and beyond, and I also love the updates it provides on his age and growth.
Although my world can feel like it revolves around him (who can blame me!), I know how important it is to prioritize self-care so that I can be at my finest for myself, my family, and my work. Below are a few additional resources that keep me going, glowing and growing:
The EWG Skin Deep Database - Understanding ingredient labels is vital, but can be time-consuming and confusing. EWG's online database provides you with extensive information about the ingredients in your favorite products, and their visual ranking and scoring system makes it easy for you to identify safe, healthy products, and ones you should probably avoid.
WELL + GOOD - I try not to spend too much time surfing the web, but one site that I never regret reading through is WELL + GOOD. It's a treasure chest of information if you are interested in well living. Their recent round-up of Top Trends for 2018 had me full of anticipation for what's to come this year!
Mindbody- It's so easy to avoid popping into a fitness class, booking that massage, or going to a meditation session during a business trip simply because it seems inconvenient or you're too busy. But I've discovered an app that has made it incredibly simple. Mindbody helps you book your favorite fitness, wellness and beauty services in just a few quick clicks on your smartphone. It works in cities across the country, which is great for those of us who are always on the go!
The Green Beauty Rules - I also feel at my finest when I am learning. There is value in understanding ingredients, how to decipher the labels on your favorite products, and how to identify safe products for yourself, your home, and your family. One of my favorite books is Paige Padgett's "Green Beauty Rules". She simplifies complex information and gives you actionable steps to clean up your beauty routine. Plus, we could probably all use a little more time for slowing down, setting aside technology and reading an actual book, don't you think?
These are things that I incorporate into my life in order to be at my finest. What would make it onto your list? What are the things that make you feel valued? Important? Smart? Empowered? Beautiful? What are the experiences that you reflect on and feel your heart swell with happiness or pride? I'm at my finest when I am educating a client on safe, effective products. I'm at my finest when I am spending quality time with my family. I'm at my finest when I'm covered in my favorite body oil or swiping on my favorite lip balm. I'm at my finest discovering new things with the people I love.