0% APR for 24 MONTHS - as low as $32/mo

Taking Time to Reflect and Reconnect with Yourself

The world is a looking glass. It gives back to every man a true reflection of his own thoughts.

-Gautama Buddha

Reconnecting with yourself

When you still yourself, the world becomes clear. 

Oftentimes when we think of self-reflection, we think of the checking off of tasks, goal-setting, and the annual self-review. All important, but peeled beneath the bark is the answer to another question, “Is your life what you want it to be right now?”

 

Self-reflection can be scary, but it can also be the most important thing you do. It’s rare that we take the opportunity to think deeply about where we’re at, how we feel, and what we want. When we do this, along with supporting our bodies with wholesome, nutritious food and time outside, we can shape our lives in a happy, healthy way.

 

This year a lot changed for me. I got my own house, recovered from a long surgery, and checked some things off of my bucket list. These are the things I think of first when looking back at 2021, the “big” ones. But when you add all the small things together, the day-to-day of everyday life, is when you really get the picture. 

In-between those big events were Wednesday nights spent with my girlfriends, walking along the river sipping tea. Early mornings out exercising, moving in the cool morning air as the sun came up, and lying in my hammock with my dog on my lap, reading paperbacks. These things reflect my values, make me feel full and free and happy that I’m doing what I want to with my time. 

Each January, I like to take the time to sit with a journal in a quiet space where I can look out the window. It’s an excellent time to reflect on your past year. The holidays have passed. Snow falls (depending on where you live), and the world turns into a quiet and still place. You can finally hear your thoughts. 

 

There are many ways you can go about reflecting. Journaling is popular for many people. Some like the stream of consciousness, others prefer prompts. Some prefer to draw out their year or pick a word that summarizes how they felt. Many people have bucket lists to see what they can check off and what lies ahead. Nature is another powerful source. There’s a reason so many quotes of the ages speak of things discovered by time spent outdoors.

Now that you can see patterns you want to shed and what you want to do more of, you can set your intention. Some, like Gretchen Rubin, like to make lists of things they’d like to do in the coming year. Others use a chosen word to guide their decisions. Others may pick a mantra, sign up for a class, or join a community group.

For many people, self-care is a primary focus. It’s easy to get caught up with all the “shoulds” of today. I should have a cleaner house, dress better, host more gatherings, go to the gym more, etc. I’ve tried this. What I’ve found is that I lose touch with myself and my inner voice. I don’t remember to take care of myself, to take in the moment, and to sink into all that is present and good. 

 

Self-care means caring for yourself in many different ways. 

Reflection, quiet walks in nature, exercising, resting, eating beautiful, nutritious food, and giving yourself time. The massages and manicures are in there too, but it’s is a mind-body practice that includes being in touch with your inner dialogue. It’s something we need to be happy and healthy in this world. Sometimes that means writing it into your calendar so you can make sure to meditate or take an evening walk. Or setting an alarm to read for a few minutes each day. When you do, you’ll find yourself getting to know yourself again. Your time will become full of things that fill you up, make you feel happy, energetic, and light. And you can head into 2022 feeling relaxed and ready for the year ahead.

Share:

Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
LinkedIn
On Key

Related Posts

Benefits of Horticultural Therapy

Ever felt the sheer joy of soil slipping through your fingers or the thrill of seeing your first seedling sprout? There’s a reason for that euphoria. Horticultural therapy, the simple

Fall menu and recipes

Falling for Flavor: 3 Recipes to Try This Autumn

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, the arrival of autumn brings with it an abundance of flavors and ingredients that inspire culinary creativity. From hearty salads to comforting stir-fries and delightful desserts, fall offers a wide array of culinary possibilities. In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to three mouthwatering recipes that capture the essence of fall.

A Guide to Home Vertical Gardens

Starting a home garden is an enjoyable and rewarding hobby. But depending on where you live, you may not think a garden is possible for you. Maybe your outdoor space

Plant Starter Set Options

Recommended

A little bit of everything

Market favorites like Kale, Basil, and Butterhead with a mix of rare heirloom varieties to discover new tastes.

GREENS: Arugula, Breen, Buttercrunch (x2), Butterhead (x2), Green Mustard, Kale, Monte Carlo, Red Mustard, Red Sails, Rouge D’hiver, Swiss Chard, Tatsoi

FRUITS: Cherry Tomatoes, Jalapenos, Sweet Peppers

HERBSCilantro, Mint, Sweet Thai Basil, Thyme

Beauty

Pops of color and flavor

A mix of bright blooms and tastes featuring Sunflowers, Snapdragons and Mini Cauliflower.

GREENS: Hon Tsai Tai (x2), Purple Kohlrabi, Red Tatsoi, Arugula, Breen, Butterhead, Green Mustard, Kale, Mone Carlo, Red Mustard, Red Sails, Rouge D’hiver, Swiss Chard, Tatsoi

HERBS: Dill, Cilantro, Mint, Sweet Thai Basil, Thyme

FRUITS/VEGGIES: Mini Cauliflower (x2), Cherry Tomatoes, Jalapeños, Sweet PeppersFlowers: Snapdragon, Sunflower (x2)

Immunity

Boost immunity naturally

A collection selected for their superior medicinal properties to strengthen your natural defenses.

GREENS: Bok Choy, Bulls Blood (x2), Wheatgrass (x2), Arugula, Breen, Butterhead, Green Mustard, Kale, Mone Carlo, Red Mustard, Red Sails, Rouge D’hiver, Swiss Chard, Tatsoi

HERBS: Chervil, Holy Basil, Red Sorrel, Cilantro, Mint, Sweet Thai Basil, Thyme

FRUITS: Cherry Tomatoes, Jalapeños, Sweet Peppers Flowers: Chamomile, Fiesta Gitana

PLANT STARTER SET OPTIONS

RECOMMENDED

Breen, Kale, Basil, Butterhead (x2), Dill, Buttercrunch (x2), Green Mustard, Arugula

BEAUTY

Mini Cauliflower (x2), Snapdragon, Sunflower (x2), Red Tatsoi, Purple Kohlrabi, Hon Tsai Tai (x2), Dill

IMMUNITY

Bok Choy, Chamomile, Fiesta Gitana, Holy Basil, Chervil, Wheatgrass (x2), Bull’s Blood (x2), Red Sorrel

RECOMMENDED

Breen, Kale, Basil, Butterhead (x2), Dill, Buttercrunch (x2), Green Mustard, Arugula

BEAUTY

Mini Cauliflower (x2), Snapdragon, Sunflower (x2), Red Tatsoi, Purple Kohlrabi, Hon Tsai Tai (x2), Dill

IMMUNITY

Bok Choy, Chamomile, Fiesta Gitana, Holy Basil, Chervil, Wheatgrass (x2), Bull’s Blood (x2), Red Sorrel

All options also include 20 Gardyner favorites:

  • Greens – Arugula, Butterhead, Kale, Swiss Chard + 7 more
  • Fruits – Cherry Tomatoes, Jalapenos & Sweet Peppers
  • Herbs – Thyme, Cilantro, Mint and Thai Basil

All options also include 20 Gardyner favorites: Greens – Arugula, Butterhead, Kale, Swiss Chard + 7 more // Fruits – Cherry Tomatoes, Jalapenos & Sweet Peppers // Herbs – Thyme, Cilantro, Mint and Thai Basil

Welcome Set

A variety of easy-growing Gardyner Favorites

Greens:

Arugula, Breen, Butterhead, Green Mustard,Kale, Monte Carlo, Red Mustard, Red Sails, Rouge D’hiver, Swiss Chard, Tatsoi

Fruits:

Cherry Tomatos, Jalapeños, Sweet Peppers

Herbs:

Cilantro, Mint, Sweet Thai Basil, Thyme

GARDYN MEMBERSHIP

Save More & Get Personal Plant Coaching

Get 10 free plant yCube credits + free shipping every month

Save 60% on additional plant yCubes including microgreens

AI plant coach Kelby monitors and optimizes your plants’ growth 24/7

Vacation Mode pauses your plants’ growth for a fresh harvest upon return.

Member Exclusive Plants, varieties you can’t find anywhere else.

Save Up To $250 More*

with a pre-paid membership

*Membership optional. Savings compared to Monthly

membership plan at $39/mo purchased in-app after setup. 

Winter Wellness Starter Set

Greens

  • Arugula
  • Bok Choy
  • Breen
  • Bull’s Blood x 2
  • Butterhead
  • Chervil
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red Mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Wheatgrass x 2

Herbs

  • Chervil
  • Cilantro
  • Holy Basil
  • Mint
  • Red Sorrel
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme

Fruits

  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno
  • Sweet Peppers

FLowers

  • Chamomile
  • Fiesta Gitana

Treat Your Senses Starter Set

Greens

Greens

  • Arugula
  • Breen
  • Butterhead
  • Green Mustard
  • Hon Tsai Tai x 2
  • Kale
  • Monte Carlo
  • Purple Kohlrabi
  • Red Mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Red Tatsoi
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Arugula
  • Breen
  • Butterhead
  • Green Mustard
  • Hon Tsai Tai x 2
  • Kale
  • Monte Carlo
  • Purple Kohlrabi
  • Red Mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Red Tatsoi
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2

Herbs

Herbs

  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme
  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme

Fruits & Veggies

Fruits & Veggies

  • Cherry Tomatos
  • Mini Cauliflower x 2
  • Sweet Peppers
  • Jalapenos
  • Cherry Tomatos
  • Mini Cauliflower x 2
  • Sweet Peppers
  • Jalapenos

FLOWERS

  • Snapdragon
  • Sunflower x 2

Gardyn Home Device 2.0

Gardyn Home Device 3.0

PLANT STARTER SET OPTIONS

RECOMMENDED

Breen, Kale, Basil, Butterhead (x2), Dill, Buttercrunch (x2), Green Mustard, Arugula

SUNNY BOUQUET

Sunflowers (x2), Viola (x3), Matilda, Dill, Purple Basil (x2), Tokyo Bekana

TASTE OF ITALY

Basil, Oregano, Parsley, Rosemary, Lollo Rossa, Endive Lettuce, Arugula, Romaine, Kale Lacinato, Mini Eggplant

FARM FRESH

Mini-Strawberries (x2), Chervil, Bok Choi, Red Sorrel, Chives, Matilda, Fiesta Gitana, Kale Lacinato, Chamomile

All options also include 20 Gardyner favorites:

  • Greens – Arugula, Butterhead, Kale, Swiss Chard + 7 more
  • Fruits – Cherry Tomatoes, Jalapenos & Sweet Peppers
  • Herbs – Thyme, Cilantro, Mint and Thai Basil

All options also include 20 Gardyner favorites: Greens – Arugula, Butterhead, Kale, Swiss Chard + 7 more // Fruits – Cherry Tomatoes, Jalapenos & Sweet Peppers // Herbs – Thyme, Cilantro, Mint and Thai Basil

Sunny Bouquet Starter Set

Greens

Greens

  • Arugula
  • Breen
  • Butterhead
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Matilda
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red Mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Tokyo Bekana
  • Arugula
  • Breen
  • Butterhead
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Matilda
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red Mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Tokyo Bekana

Herbs

Herbs

  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Purple Basil x 2
  • Sweet Thai Basil
  • Thyme
  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Purple Basil x 2
  • Sweet Thai Basil
  • Thyme

Fruits

Fruits

  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno
  • Sweet Peppers
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno
  • Sweet Peppers

Flowers

Flowers

  • Sunflowers x 2
  • Viola x 3
  • Sunflowers x 2
  • Viola x 3

Taste of Italy Starter Set

Greens

Greens

  • Arugula x 2
  • Breen
  • Butterhead
  • Endive Lettuce
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Kale Lacinato
  • Lollo Rossa
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Red Mustard
  • Romaine
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Arugula x 2
  • Breen
  • Butterhead
  • Endive Lettuce
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Kale Lacinato
  • Lollo Rossa
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Red Mustard
  • Romaine
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2

Herbs

Herbs

  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Italian Parsely
  • Mint
  • Oregano
  • Rosemary
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme
  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Italian Parsely
  • Mint
  • Oregano
  • Rosemary
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme

Fruits

Fruits

  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno
  • Mini Eggplant
  • Sweet Peppers
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno
  • Mini Eggplant
  • Sweet Peppers

Farm Fresh Starter Set

Greens

Greens

  • Arugula
  • Bok Choi
  • Breen
  • Butterhead
  • Chervil
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Kale Lacinato
  • Matilda
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red Mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Red Sorrel
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Arugula
  • Bok Choi
  • Breen
  • Butterhead
  • Chervil
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Kale Lacinato
  • Matilda
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red Mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Red Sorrel
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2

Herbs

Herbs

  • Chives
  • Cilantro
  • Mint
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme
  • Chives
  • Cilantro
  • Mint
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme

Fruits

Fruits

  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno
  • Mini-Strawberries x 2
  • Sweet Peppers
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno
  • Mini-Strawberries x 2
  • Sweet Peppers

FLowers

Flowers

  • Chamomile
  • Fiesta Gitana
  • Chamomile
  • Fiesta Gitana

Superfood Fresh Starter Set

Greens

Greens

  • Arugula 
  • Breen 
  • Butterhead
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Kale Lacinato
  • Monta Carlo
  • Purselane
  • Red Amaranth
  • Red mustard x 2
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Watercress
  • Wheatgrass
  • Arugula 
  • Breen 
  • Butterhead
  • Green Mustard
  • Kale
  • Kale Lacinato
  • Monta Carlo
  • Purselane
  • Red Amaranth
  • Red mustard x 2
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Watercress
  • Wheatgrass

Herbs

Herbs

  • Cilantro
  • Mint
  • Oregano
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme
  • Wild Thyme
  • Cilantro
  • Mint
  • Oregano
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme
  • Wild Thyme

Fruits

Fruits

  • Cape Gooseberry
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno

  • Sweet Peppers
  • Cape Gooseberry
  • Cherry Tomatoes
  • Jalapeno
  • Sweet Peppers

Flowers

Flowers

  • Radio Calendula
  • Radio Calendula

Bounty of Greens Starter Set

Greens

Greens

  • Arugula x 2
  • Breen x 2
  • Buttercrunch x 2
  • Butterhead x 3
  • Green Mustard x 2
  • Kale x 2
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2
  • Arugula x 2
  • Breen x 2
  • Buttercrunch x 2
  • Butterhead x 3
  • Green Mustard x 2
  • Kale x 2
  • Monte Carlo
  • Red mustard
  • Red Sails x 2
  • Rouge D’hiver
  • Swiss Chard
  • Tatsoi x 2

Herbs

Herbs

  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme
  • Basil
  • Cilantro
  • Dill
  • Mint
  • Thai Basil
  • Thyme

Fruits

Fruits

  • Cherry Tomatos
  • Sweet Peppers
  • Jalapenos
  • Cherry Tomatos
  • Sweet Peppers
  • Jalapenos