I’ve been more intentional about applying the soft life sensibilities since the phrase started floating around in the Black girl zeitgeist in early spring 2022 although, I believe it’s time to dig deeper into a softer existence. Especially during this winter season. It’s become an absolute must since taking on the responsibility of caregiving for a close family member, affirming how imperative it is to take time for oneself. To basks in every small moment, in the soft doses of each day, so you can survive.
Indulging in a “soft life” is beyond the cozy phrase and notion, it’s a way of life, a culture in of itself. The goal is to further develop the mindful ability of personal thoughtfulness and create a cultural movement - to live as best you can and exist in goodness within your daily life. It’s about living a softer existence, having a softer winter and an even softer year in 2023.
Whenever we enter a new year, the feeling of forward movement energy is instant. I am ready to be centered, consistent and direct because ultimately you can only live for yourself whether you have people in your life that will help hold you accountable in taking time or not, you must make sure you create soft moments for yourself. If not, you can lose yourself and the purpose of your personal objectives and the power to thrive towards your goals. Having the gull to effectively invoke soft living takes some moxie.
I’ve learned during this winter when we should all be gaining more sleep like our hibernating Bear friends; having sleep deprivation from my current crazy life has aided in my sense to lean into softness and my inner barometer on how much to share and the value of my own time. It’s the energy spent for me.
All to gain a better sense of self and sensibility, within my own internal clock, and the sounds that it makes when I am neglecting its natural rhythm. A softer life is just that- knowing when to stop to take a break, breathe (inhale/exhale), to stretch and to do the things that make you happy. Even if it’s something as small as, watching a mindless television show or, listening to a song you haven’t heard in a long time that evokes a core memory of positivity or buying those Chelsea boots you’ve be eyeing for weeks (it’s on my list).
I found myself wanting to do more softening and needing more space in time to mentally release daily pressure. One pleasure that’s been most helpful is washing my hair using luxury products, you know the expensive pampering that can be a real mood boost and instant luxurious personal moment. It’s honestly actively designing a cozier existence to sustain in what can often be a stressful, chaotic and arduous life for you in whatever capacity you see fit, it can be anything that makes existing easier to maintain and that’s it.
