Simple Comforts
Updated: Aug 20, 2020
Whether it is part of a ritual first thing in the morning or in the middle of the day, I am drawn to some simple objects in my home. They give me a sense of comfort and help me take a moment to myself. Here are some of the objects that keep me nourished, deep within...
This book of poetry
I start my mornings with a book of poetry. Reading helps me slow down and learn, something that my well-slept mind seems to crave. A Year with Rumi: Daily Readings by Coleman Barks is arranged date wise and so, I am able to learn and reflect on Rumi's Sufism based teachings, one poem a day. It is at times spiritual, other times humorous and some other times requiring two or three re-reads to fully grasp. Regardless of what it has in store for me on any given day, it never fails to broaden by perspective and keep me centred as I go about my day.
This Tea Mug
Making a cup of spiced tea with a shot of oat milk and honey is a ritual I most look forward to. It is time I take for myself, to freshen up and get mentally ready for what lies ahead in the day. I love to serve myself in this mug. I've had it for a few months now and it has quickly become a favourite. It is just the right size for the amount of tea I like and it is perfectly shaped for my rather small hands ;). I make myself some tea, fully swaddle it with my palms and take that refreshing sip. While this exact one isn't available anymore, I found this one that I'm also really drawn to.
This candle
Little did I expect a candle picked up on a basic grocery run would bring me so much satisfaction. This lavender soy candle freshens my home every evening at the end of a day-full-of-staring-into-a-screen. It has a subtle fragrance that feels instantly uplifting. For a sensitive person like me it is just right, neither too mild nor too overpowering.
This accent chair
This chair makes me feel so warm and fuzzy inside. I'm not sure exactly what it is though. Perhaps, it is the nostalgia it provides...I grew up sitting on and sometimes jumping over chairs like these at my grandparents' house in India. The distinct rattan weave feels comforting, while the modern lines on the chair legs gives it a mid-century vibe that I'm attracted to. I guess it reminds me of me; a mix of cultures and full of stories.
This plant
It is called 'Ming Aralia' or 'Polyscias fruticosa' but we refer to it as 'Ming' in my home (I name my plants and I find that it greatly simplifies conversations with my husband about who's watering which plants :)). Ming is in my bedroom and the first visual I see as soon as I open my eyes each morning. I often lie in bed staring at this beautiful plant. Its feathery leaves provides an instant visual refreshment for droopy eyes. The long branches that grow upwards reminds me of trees and forests in the wild. The gentle reminder of nature it gives me immediately causes a relaxing effect on my senses and keeps me balanced throughout the day.
I'd love to know what simple objects comfort you. If you'd like to connect on social media, instagram is best, @shastudioinc. I look forward to saying hello. Have a lovely day ahead!