INHALE EXHALE

Inspire reflection with the ancient wisdom of minimalism. Dream. Drift. Float. Make room for what matters.

New beginnings, fresh starts, we are all in a continuous cycle of change and catharsis. This summer, we turn inwards and reflect on the year past and the months upcoming. We share our favourite tips for relaxation and rejuvenation, reflect on new beginnings, each a keepsake of mementos and sensory indulgences to encourage the pursuit of one’s own desires. As we head further into the year, we encourage you to turn this self-reflection into a daily ritual, remembering to create moments for both care and restoration.

As we dive into the wellness pool, we want you to focus on the daily good, simple joys that fill you with appreciation and comfort.

A carved morning routine has long been the staple of self-care practice all over the world. A healthy, low-stressed and focused morning routine sets the tone for the entire day, and you notice considerable changes once you do it (and even more, when you skip it). Cementing morning rituals can make it easier to prioritize your mental and physical health throughout the rest of the day too.

Whether it is a warm beverage, an audio meditation, a cozy pair of slippers, or a detailed skincare routine - morning rituals encourage presence and grounded living. When creating your morning routine, remember there is no one way; you have to build one that is specific to you, as our bodies and minds are energised differently. Here are some simple mindful rituals you can add to your morning routine to start clean and feel your best.

Honour your needs and feelings, and practice the rituals that feel best for the day ahead. But remember – the key is consistency.

Your mindful morning begins the night before. Nothing like a restful sleep to help you wake feeling nourished and fulfilled. Avoid staying up late, working on your laptop, or scrolling through your phones after hours. This will help you spend a few hours off screen before bedtime, ensuring your mind is not occupied with busy thoughts as you sleep. Reading, essential oils, a calming tea, skincare, meditation podcasts, or simply burning a candle are excellent tools to help you get quality sleep.

Here are some treasures to help you get in the zone.

A great way to start the day and get your greens in, this naturally detoxifying Green Juice is made with vegetables including celery, cucumber, parsley, avocado, and leafy greens rich in antioxidants. Perfect to start your mornings with, a green juice can be taken either on an empty stomach or as a meal supplement as it nourishes your body with the right micro-nutrients.

Self reflection and re-connection with self - the art of journaling is therapeutic, insightful, and revealing. Gratitude is one of the most impactful habits – especially when done first thing in the morning. It can influence your day positively and help with overall well-being. You can note down the things you’re thankful for by keeping a bedside journal, or do it the first thing in the morning. Make it a practice while sipping your daily beverage, reading the paper, or through prayer and meditation apps.

Allowing yourself to be completely present may seem like a nebulous notion, but meditation is a practice that makes every waking moment a delight.

Here are some meditation apps to help you through:

The devil is in the details. Create small morning rituals that are uniquely your own. It could be a fuzzy robe and warm socks, or a cozy pair of carpet slippers or your favourite silk pyjamas. Make getting up in the morning a pleasurable task with small rituals like lighting a candle, making your coffee, or practicing Yoga at the start of your day. Create habits that excite you and involve your kids to teach them the importance of routine and ritual as well.

Alluring romantic sagas, dramatic worlds of emotions, and certified mindful reading – our editors choose the most captivating, thought-provoking, and absorbing reads this month. Wade through the selection here.

Eating wholesome and nutritious meals nourishes our bodies and soul. Research has shown that mindful eating can lead to greater psychological well-being, increased pleasure when eating, and body satisfaction. Paying attention to what you eat can help you improve your diet, manage food cravings, and even lose weight. Mindful eating involves observing how food makes you feel and how your body sends signals about taste, satisfaction, and fullness. It requires you to simply acknowledge the bodily sensations you observe. The feeling will extend towards the process of buying, preparing, and serving your food as well as consuming it.

Mindful meals consider the whole experience of eating – from seed to table, flavour to finish line. Whether you prefer your steak plant-based, or rare, we have curated some of the best dishes to fuel you.

Music soothes the mind and nourishes the soul. Discover our enriching playlist composed of soulful and relaxing music curated to help you dream, drift, float.

With weather everywhere hitting the high points, we’re dreaming of a little getaway to Zanzibar sooner rather than later. Ergo, our go-to’s for beautiful hotels, vintage finds, unmissable design and chic restaurants for soaking up much-needed vitamin D and sea views.

Heralded as the “New Caribbean”, “the New Maldives”, Zanzibar Islands are known for their pristine white sands and impossible turquoise waters. And whilst their beauty is insurmountable for romantic vacation-seekers, it is by no means limited to this. With its idyllic hills, marine life rich waters, and delish food and wine, it is also a destination for backpackers, hikers, and adventurous divers – a perfect way to round up a trip from mainland Tanzania.

1. Visit Stone Town – This African bazaar sells everything! From spices to art and fashion, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Get yourself a traditional kanga, kitenge, or kikoy (cotton robe with a colourful print and border worn by women in Zanzibar) while wandering the alleys.

2. Go to Forodhani Gardens – a local hot-spot which doubles up as an open-air street market selling eclectic brassware, antique wooden décor objects and unique art.

3. See the Red Colobus Monkeys at the Jozani Forest.

4. Book yourself the Spice Tour and buy cloves to make yourself a spice cake!

5. Go on the Safari Blue Cruise and marvel at the scenic Zanzibar beaches.