We've all mentioned enough times and more how rather rubbish this year's been and even if you're the most positive person in the world, you're going to have your down days. And especially as different places across the world are going back and forth between restrictions and not.
Last Thursday, we headed into a weekend lockdown here in Colombo but that has now been extended to next week. I know that England is going back into lockdown from a month from Thursday, France has gone into a one month lockdown. If you've been watching the US Election, you might be on edge like I have been. Numbers of COVID-19 cases continue to grow. It's just such an uncertain, scary time. None of us want to go back into a full fledged lockdown, so it's worrying.
When that worry kicks in, we all need a little pick me up. Even I have found myself finding or turning to things that I know are going to make my soul a little happier. So I thought I'd share these things with you.
What To Watch:
The Binge-Worthy Show That I Couldn't Stop Laughing At - Grace & Frankie: This is one of those shows that I continuously laughed at. It's refreshing and hilarious. You cannot go wrong with Jane Fonda & Lily Tomlin.
The "Watch Easy" Show That'll Give You Fashion, Fun & French - Emily In Paris: If you haven't heard about this one or seen it yet, then what are you doing? It's got fashion, romance, comedy and clichés, what's not to love? The title alone is what I want the title of my life to be, so of course I'm suggesting this one.
A Series That Is Addictive And Brilliant - La Casa De Papel (Money Heist): Yeah, I might be late to this party but this has to be one of the best shows on Netflix. Insanely well written, keeps you on your toes and you will not stop watching it. My tip: Watch it in Spanish with English subtitles.
A Movie To Watch Forever - The Holiday: Look, I know it's far too early for Christmas movies (not for me though, I get in the Christmas mood come September 1st) but I've watched "The Holiday" countless times and it never fails to make me feel all the feelings. Plus, Nancy Meyers never fails with her films. I don't even need to say much else.
A Classic Rom-Com With A Lot of Laughs - The Proposal: You may have noticed, I love a rom-com and I have no shame. The Proposal is one of the best, it's a fact. Sandra Bullock & Ryan Reynolds were the combo I never knew I needed. It's one of those movies you could watch over and over. Also, Betty White as Grandma Annie? Iconic.
YouTuber That Never Fail Me - Lydia Elise Millen-Gordon:
I've been watching Lydia for the longest time and I cannot tell you how grateful I am for her hour long vlogs. From fashion to beauty to gardening, Lydia just delivers a place of escape when you need it. Lydia is one of those real people on the internet who isn't afraid to speak her mind and be emotionally raw too, which is something we need more of in the world of social media.
YouTuber That Always Makes Me Laugh & Give Me Fitness Motivation - Sarah's Day: I absolutely adore Sarah; she's just this amazing ball of energy and she's another truly real person on the internet. I've watched her journey for years now and her life with Kurt, Fox & Abby never fails to make me smile and laugh because they are hilarious. Also, her abs are killer! Her workouts inspire me, as does her food (I can't wait to see the cooking project she's working on). Honestly, you cannot go wrong with Sarah.
What To Read:
The Book I Couldn't Put Down - 28 Summers by Elin Hilderbrand: This book was the most unconventional love story I've read and I loved every single minute of it. The title of the book outlines exactly how the story goes; 28 Summers of love between Mallory Blessing and Jacke McCloud, who decide to base their summers off of the movie, "Same Time Next Year". They both go through life together in the most interesting of ways, with obstacles and triumphs along the way. I just loved this book more than you know and even though it can be bittersweet at times, it can just make you feel a whole range of emotions.
The Book To Make You See Things Differently - The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k by Mark Manson: In a time where worry is on our minds and we're trying to figure out where life is taking us, it might be a good time for self-reflection and looking within to see how we can take care of ourselves better. This book really taught me a lesson about how I am in life and what I needed to change. Manson gives you the hard truth, bluntly and it's so refreshing. I would consider this one or any "self-help" books (I like to call them more "self-awareness" books) that can lift your mind and spirit, as well as give you a bit of hope and clarity.
The Books For Nostalgia & Escape - Harry Potter: If you are a Potterhead, this is a given. Whether it's watching the movies or reading the books, Harry Potter provides a place of timeless escape. I'm planning to re-read the books because I know they just bring me so much joy. So pick a book or series that you know you will always go back to because you loved it the first time around.
What To Listen To:
A Song To Make You Dance - Woke Up Late by Drax Project ft. Hailee Steinfeld: I found this song randomly one day whilst I was in the car. The radio was on, I was alone in the car and something about it caught me. The sunroof was open, the sky was the bluest ever, the sun shining and I was in the best of moods - this song now encapsulates that mood for me every time I hear it. I never skip it when it comes on shuffle and I can't help but dance. Trust me, if you want to escape and dance your troubles away, this is the song for you.
A Playlist Genre That Gives You Nostalgia & Good Vibes - 90s/2000s R&B: If you know, you know. I'm talking Ne-Yo, Usher, Destiny's Child, Craig David, J-Lo, Mario, Rihanna and more. Honestly go on to Apple Music or Spotify and just type in "90s-2000s R&B"; I promise you, you will not be disappointed. There's something about that era of music that can't be touched.
All Hail The Girl Power: Okay, the women have been doing it for me lately. Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, Meghan Trainor, The Pussycat Dolls, Beyoncé and more. Honestly, my brain just stopped and I can't think of more. Plus, if I do we'll be here forever. There's something about girl power music that makes me feel good, whether it's by a single artist of multiple. They've got these songs that make you feel strong, beautiful and happy. They make you want to dance and sing into your mirror with your hairbrush. So put on the artist or artists that make you feel like you're ready to strut your stuff.
There's probably plenty of other things I can suggest, like immersing yourself in your favourite hobbies or something that isn't technology based, but these are just the little external things that you can switch on or grab when you're in a super funk to tune out the noise within.
We all need a little something sometimes and I hope these help you, like they have me. And remember, if you need a friend, I'm here for you.
Hoping you're staying safe. Sending you lots of love and positivity!
Emily xx
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