New series time! I thought it would be fun to periodically share the things I am reading, listening to, eating, wearing, watching, and generally enjoying. Read on for a quick list of the things I’m loving this season:
Listen Up
I just stumbled upon the How to Build a Happy Life podcast from the Atlantic produced by Rebecca Rashid and hosted by Arthur Brooks. Data-driven insights thought provoking conversations on the topic of how to create a happier life. I especially enjoyed this recent episode that lines up with my own work called How to Spend Time on What You Value.
A Good Read
I’ve been a fan of comedian Phoebe Robinson for years and her latest book Please Don’t Sit on My Bed in Your Outside Clothes is everything I want in a book: It’s poignant, engaging, full of sharp insight, and often laugh out loud funny.
For Your Kitchen
My chef brother sent me a bottle of this super chic organic cold pressed olive oil and I am sold. The oil is ideal for cooking, roasting, finishing, and anything in between, and the Le Marké refillable system includes reusable glass vessel followed by recurring shipments of refill pouches made from 100% certified recyclable, plant-based packaging designed for easy and eco-friendly decanting.
Treat Yourself
I’m not typically a chocolate person, but have been quite enjoying Tony’s chocolate bars, specifically the chocolate sea salt which the whole family loves (and sometimes wrestle over). The fun flavors and brightly colored wrappers make for a crowd-pleasing clutter-free gift too – buy a bundle or design your own, wrap with a ribbon for guaranteed delight. More good news: Tony’s is a mission driven company dedicated to producing 100% slave and child labor free chocolate.
For Your Feeeet
I’ve recommended these comfy, stylish, light-as-air, waterproof boots by Freda Salvador to anyone who will listen. I don’t own proper rain boots so these fit the bill for the rare California rain day (although my east coast friends also swear by them), they’re easy to slip on, and guaranteed to put a spring in your step. Bonus: they are produced in small family run factories and sold by a small female-founded brand. I have them in Mink, a dreamy neutral that doesn’t show dirt.
The Perfect Fall Boot (Use code 15SHIRA for 15% off)
Move It, Shake It
I always feel better when I’m active, but I’m not an athlete or a gym person so it’s been challenging for me to find ways to work out that I actually enjoy. I’m still taking solo walks most mornings, but rarely break a sweat, so I’ve been integrating a few new forms of exercise into my weekly routine.
My latest discovery is the Back Body Project – an online program designed to build lean muscle, endurance, resilience, and a healthy backside. It is challenging but incredibly impactful, and I especially love the signature time efficient options – quickie workouts that are only 15-20 minutes long.
For in-person classes, my favorite is Core Power Yoga which merges traditional flow-based yoga with targeted core strengthening, weights, music, and motivation. I’ve been aiming for 2-3 classes a week, and have noticeably reduced my back and neck pain, improved my strength, and just generally feel better whenever I get to class.
Finally, The White Lotus on HBO is back for a second season and I am beside myself with glee. Watch it here.
I’d love to know: What are you especially enjoying this season? Any recs? Please share below in the comment section.