Welcome, beautiful friend
As summer lingers and August whispers for us to slow down, I can’t help but feel that this season was made for soft pauses and little resets. National Wellness Month always nudges me to reflect on how I’m really caring for myself, not in the “perfect routine” kind of way, but in the small, nourishing rituals that remind me I’m worthy of love, rest, and joy.
Self-care isn’t just bubble baths or spa days (though those are lovely too). It’s about listening to what your soul craves, giving your body tenderness, and remembering that your presence here matters. I thought I’d share some of the practices I’ve been leaning into, simple, heart-led rituals that help me move through this month (and beyond) with more peace, grounding, and grace.
Begin the Day with Gentle Scent + Stillness
Most mornings, before I even touch my phone, I light a candle on my nightstand. Lately, I’ve been drawn to fresh, awakening scents like rosemary or lemongrass — something about them feels like a soft invitation into clarity. I take a few breaths, sip warm tea, and just sit. Sometimes it’s only five minutes, but those first quiet moments set the tone for everything that follows.
Take Your Midday Break Outside
I’ve been reminding myself not to power through the day but to step outside, even just for lunch. Feeling the sun on my skin, listening to birdsong, noticing the air — it shifts my whole mood. If I have my peppermint + eucalyptus oil roller with me, I dab a little on my wrists, inhale deeply, and instantly feel refreshed. It’s such a small ritual, but it really recharges me.
Practice Body Gratitude
After a shower, I’ve started slowing down while applying lotion or body oil. Instead of rushing through, I’ll whisper little thank-yous: thank you, legs, for carrying me, thank you, hands, for holding what I love. It may sound simple, but it softens the way I see my body — as something to love and honor, not just “fix.”Create a Candlelit Evening Corner
There’s a little corner in my home that has become my sanctuary. A throw blanket, a cozy chair, a calming candle (Cozy lavender Soy candle is my go-to), and a good book. When I light the candle, it’s my signal: this is your time to slow down. Even if I do nothing else, that glow helps me unwind and come back to myself.
One Page of Reflection
I’m not always consistent with journaling, but one page before bed feels doable. No rules, no editing, just thoughts poured out. Sometimes it’s “I feel tired but grateful,” or “Today I noticed the way the sky looked.” Over time, these little entries become a mirror of growth, and they free up space in my heart before sleep.
Infuse Your Bath or Shower
I love turning an ordinary shower into a mini-spa moment. A few drops of chamomile or orange essential oil on the shower floor, a candle flickering nearby, and suddenly it feels like an intentional ritual. The steam, the scent, the quiet, it’s pure reset energy.
Breathe Before Meals
Before eating, I’ve started placing my hand on my heart and taking three slow breaths. It grounds me, helps me savor my food, and reminds me to feel gratitude for what’s nourishing me. It transforms something so everyday into something sacred.
Soothe with Nature’s Scents
Whenever I’m in nature, I take time to notice the scents of pine trees, blooming flowers, and fresh basil in the garden. They calm me in a way nothing else does. And on busy days when I can’t get outside, I keep a little lavender sachet nearby to breathe in and bring me back to center.
Prepare for Sleep with Intention
Evenings are for slowing down. I’ll dim the lights, sip tea, maybe stretch a little, and light a grounding candle like our Sandalwood vanilla. No screens, no rushing. Just letting my body know it’s safe to rest. This rhythm has helped me sleep more deeply and wake up softer.
End the Day with Loving Presence
Before I close my eyes, I place my hand on my heart and whisper something kind. You’ve done enough, you are safe, you are loved. Letting the gentle glow of a Lory Lace candle flicker nearby makes the moment even sweeter.
National Wellness Month may just be August on the calendar, but really, these rituals are gentle reminders we can carry into every season. Wellness doesn’t need to be complicated; it’s found in the little moments where you choose yourself, again and again.
With warmth + light,
Lory
