Soulful Sunday #40: The Sweet & Simple

Welcome to my fortieth instalment of ‘Soulful Sundays’. A weekly share where I post a roundup of soulful reflections, each including recipes, songs, quotes, blogs I have read and/or any other inspirational discoveries to sooth the soul.

For me, Sunday’s have become a day of quiet contemplation and simple pleasures. A time to reflect on the week gone by and to consider my hopes and dreams for the week ahead.

My hope is to extend some love outward and to share some simple pleasures with anyone who cares to receive them.

Soul Reflections

Since I read An Artists Way last year by Julia Cameron, I try to journal most days. I love to write, and so find this part of my day therapeutic. It’s a chance to connect with myself, my thoughts and feelings, and to let go of anything that may be troubling me. Cameron suggest we try ‘morning pages’ – a stream of (unedited) consciousness of no less than three pages upon awakening. It’s great for clearing the mind of any mental chatter before we begin our day. This powerful ritual brings our awareness to any repetitive thoughts patterns, habits or new insights we may be experiencing.

Lately, I added a fourth page titled ‘Cherished Moments’ which I write in the evening before sleep. I’m not one for writing about every little detail of my day, but being the sentimental soul that I am, I do like to capture the magic in the mundane, those moments that truly matter to me.

My ‘Cherished Moments’ are simply that – moments that I cherish the most from each day – a gratitude list if you wish, or a history of the ‘sweet, simple things of life which are the real ones after all.’

Today, may you cherish each moment and savour those that leave lasting footprints on your heart.

Soul Strolls

I am currently house sitting for my friend in Mentone for three weeks whilst I care for his two cats and his dog, Bambi. Bambi was found on the side of the road as a pup, beaten and left for dead. A nervous, yet sweet, tender soul with a loving disposition, she enjoys walking. And so do I! A match made in heaven… 🙂

Here’s Bambi soaking up the beach vibes… whilst the cats chill out at home on the sofa! 😉

Soul Food

I have been working some long days this term, and have turned to quick, easy dinners which can also be used the next day for leftovers, like my Scrambled Tofu & Veggie Spaghetti. It is quick, simple and yummy. Winning!

Soul Music

Today I am sharing this magical track which literally lifted me up and set me on fire! The video is stunning and the message is one of simple purpose and Divine magic.

Soul Sisters

I have been focusing on the simple things in life this week, and so has my good friend and fellow blogger, Miriam. I feel compelled to share Miriam’s post titled The Calm Hour. A magical post of beauty and wisdom, Miriam reminds us to savour the simple and embrace the stillness within. I urge you to head over to Miriam’s delightful page! I always leave feeling uplifted and inspired…

Wishing you all a simple Sunday of stillness, peace and cherished moments.

In love & light,

Hayley xx

Beyond the Mind

Do you feel anxious? Worried? Confused? Just when you think you have all the answers, does your mind send you reeling frantically with thoughts of “What if?”

Hush now. Be still. For one thing is certain – the solutions are not in your head.

The mind has a funny way of thinking it’s way in circles. It’s main stimulant of doubt, fear and procrastination presents countless roadblocks to inner peace.

Rule your mind or it will rule you.

– Buddha

Recognising that your thoughts create your experience is the ultimate pathway to peace. We are only ever one thought away from living the life we intended to live, a life that truly matters. For authentic guidance, we must rely on a source much greater than our minds; we must learn to trust in our intuition.

Learning to detach from our incessant thinking can be tricky at first. We identify so strongly with the stories we tell ourselves, that we create all kinds of problems and dilemmas in our heads. But with a little practice, patience and perseverance we can develop our awareness and learn to tap into our intuitive power. Try spending time alone in nature, or go deeper with mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation. Connect with your breath and feel the answers arise from the space between your thoughts; your authentic self.

Divine guidance is always available to you. Your soul’s whispers are just that – whispers. Unless you are willing to get quiet and be still – you wont hear the messages coming to you from your heart.

Remember, you are more than your thoughts. You are bigger than your mind. The same life force that exists in every living thing exists inside of you. You are connected to the same Divine wisdom that created you. Today, tap into that wisdom. Listen to your heart. Wrap yourself in the reassuring hug of Divine Guidance.

In love & light,

Hayley xx