C ON S O L I D AT E (14) / DREAM BIG (46) / L IVE WILD (84)
The Ease Issue
A Retrospective Issue
Crowdsource Wisdom with TPY Publisher,
Lee Lee McKnight
Become a Regular!
Subscribe for Perks.* Share for Good Feelings. *Details at bit.ly/TPYandyou
We believe in choosing, embracing, unleashing, and celebrating who you've always been – who you already are – who you want to be.
Be YOU...the Perpetual You.
THE
L ET T ER from our ED I T O R
THE OFFICE The Perpetual You 101 Putnam Ave. Hamden, CT 06517
THE LIST To receive each issue of the magazine directly to your inbox, join our mailing list at: theperpetualyou.com/read.
I
went on an almost-three-week family road trip this past summer, from Connecticut to Colorado--my first true
vacation since co-founding this magazine. Sure, I worked a little here and there;
T H E C O M MU N I T Y Look for us on social media @theperpetualyou.
for the most part, though, my mind was occupied with other concerns. The night we returned home, I lay awake, secure and safe in my own bed, and wondered, unexpectedly: what should I do about
THE SOCIETY Meet like-minded women in our private FB group, The Perpetual You Society.
The Perpetual You? I had been away from the day-to-day of magazine-ing so long that, as it turns out, my mind had seized upon that freedom to wrestle with "big picture" concerns I typically push past. • Is an independent magazine financially feasible in today's oh-socommercial world?
THE STOCKISTS You can pick up a print copy of our magazine at the following shops: Lovet Shop Milford, CT ShopLovet.com Dwell New Haven, CT DwellNewHaven.com
• If it isn't, why did we chose this medium? If we can't get the word out, then what are we doing all of this for? • Even if it is, am I the right person to be at the helm? I didn't come to any decisions that night and I didn't get much sleep. Still, I woke up with a clarity I haven't experienced since April of 2016--the month I took over as Managing Editor of The Perpetual You. My clarity didn't come from making a decision. Rather, I woke up knowing one thing: I had options. I did not HAVE to keep publishing if it was no longer bringing me joy, ease, fun, and wealth. Since that time, I've been in what I think of as a "wrestling" phase. I believe wholeheartedly in our mission of giving women permission to love themselves as-is. I even believe that a lifestyle magazine is a wonderful way to go about accomplishing that mission. Still, I am as uncertain as I have ever been about the reality of this
THE PERK Subscribers can use promo code TPYTURNSFOUR through Sep 30 to get a 10% discount on any TPY marketplace item.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
magazine being the way to accomplish this mission. In no way does this uncertainty overshadow the beautiful badassery we have consistently published over the past THREE years (!). Flipping through this, our first ever "Best of TPY" issue, you will find relevant, timeless content that allows you to Be You--something no other lifestyle magazine does. You will find women who look like you; women who think like you; and women who live like you.
What we have accomplished in publishing this magazine is truly amazing. To each collaborator-from our long term contributors to our cover story superstars to our guest writers, artists, and photographers--and to each reader, supporter, and subscriber of the magazine, I say: You have changed the world. (Also, you have changed my life.) This gorgeous issue is the proof we all hold in our hands.
As I write this letter today, I have no idea whether or for how long we will keep publishing The Perpetual You magazine; however, I'm more certain than ever that being wise does not mean knowing all the answers. Instead, wisdom lies in the knowledge that there are multiple solutions to each challenge. Wisdom expands when we are willing to wrestle with each of these possible outcomes. Wisdom arises as the we confront uncertainty to seek clarity. Wisdom is a constant while we are sitting still and being ready, believing and being uncertain, wondering and waiting. Wisdom welcomes whatever is to come, whatever is here. Because I believe so, so much in what we are doing, I am ready and willing to sit in my uncertainty and find my way forward, with Wisdom as my guide.
Publisher & Managing Editor @wordsbyleelee
The EASE ISSU E
|
3
P H O T O by @ M A R K I E J O N E S P H O T O G R A P H Y L L C
FIND US @THEPERPETUALYOU
IN THIS ISSUE
Create Ease by Choosing Wisdom M O N T H LY M US I C
Listen to a collection of our favorite songs, culled from playlists over the past 3 years, at bit.ly/TPYmusic. T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Choose
61
Choose to unveil all the secrets and bare your soul, with TPY publisher Lee Lee McKnight. P H O T O G R A P H E D by M A R K I E LY N N E
The EASE ISSU E
|
5
Realize Cull for wisdom by revisiting our favorite
14
TPY articles, products, and self-care tips, from the past three years.
Lifestyle To-Do Differently............................................ 14 Re-Discover Clean.......................................... 30 Nourish Yourself............................................. 32
TPY Faves Reviews .......................................................... 17 Food .............................................................. 18 Cocktail.......................................................... 20
30
Movement....................................................... 22 Products ........................................................ 24 Self-Care......................................................... 36
32
Plus Our Reader-voted Travel Spread! featuring @coreylynntucker
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
27
Dwell Collect bits and pieces of traditions, old and new, in order to re-invent (or discover) your design aesthetic.
Design Find Your Style................................................. 40 Support Artists.................................................. 42 Create Your Tribe............................................. 46
46
84
Live Cherish your long-held desires and bring forth you inner wisdom; find connection and adventure by reconnecting to your Self.
Mindset Start Believing............................................... 76 Embrace Connection..................................... 80 Expand the Edge........................................... 84
The EASE ISSU E
|
7
FIND US @THEPERPETUALYOU
T H E MA K ERS
Our makers consistently share their time & talents. We'd love to introduce you to the lovely ladies who contributed to this month's issue.
Markie Cover Story & Dwell Photographer @markiejonesphotographyllc markielynne.com
Markie is a PNW Wedding and portrait photographer based in Bonney Lake, Washington. She picked up an old film camera to pass a college art class and hasn't looked back since. When not documenting life behind the camera, she enjoys being with her family. Markie's been blessed to photograph hundreds of clients encompassing several genres; her favorites are weddings, boudoir, and of course, photographing for The Perpetual You. This is Markie's first cover story collaboration with TPY though she has shot the Dwell feature spread for several issues.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Jessie
Casee
P.K.
Art Director
Brand Marketer
Proofreader
@littlelegendsdesign littlelegends.com
@hopeandharbor caseemarie.com
Connect on Facebook
Krystal
Marie
Constance
Mantra Siren
Cover Story
Collaborating Photographer
@krystalbrandt krystalbrandt.com
@mleveypabst CreateBalancedLife.com
@constance_schiano constanceschiano.com
Kay
Ann Marie
Katie
Collaborating Photographer
Collaborating Artist
Collaborating Artist
@walkerstudiosllc walkerstudiosllc.com
@annmariedrury_artist annmariedruryart.com
@thisdelightfuldesign katieclarkk.com
The EASE ISSU E
|
9
Maghon
Brittany
Nika
Collaborating Artist
Collaborating Artist
Collaborating Artist
@allshewrotenotes allshewrotenotes.com
@letterlanedesignstudio letterlanedesignstudio.com
@calligraphetteco calligraphetteco.com
Lindsay
Jayna
Jacqui
Collaborating Photographer
Collaborating Photographer
Collaborating Photographer
@lindsay_stanford lindsaystanford.com
@jaynacowal jaynacowalphoto.com
@byjacquiphoto byjacquiphotography.com
Mary Elizabeth
Willy
Joanna
Collaborating Photographer
Collaborating Photographer
Collaborating Photographer
@itsmaryelizabeth maryelizabethcreative.com
@lifeunstill lifeunstill.com
@joanna_fisher joannafisher.com
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
to align your daily practices with your ever-evolving desires
A RT W O RK by @ N ADIAHO R N
Collage of women illustrated for our magazine from Sept 2016 - July 2018
I L L U S T R A T I O N by A N N M A R I E D R U R Y, @ A N N M A R I E D R U R Y _ A R T I S T
REALIZE
THE LA DY
The Lee Lee Co-founder and Current Publisher of The Perpetual You Magazine, Lee Lee Thompson is a mom of two boys who believes in the collective wisdom of women. To promote divine femininity and honor female heritage, Lee Lee chooses a pioneering woman to feature in our magazine each month. In addition to introducing readers to these sheroes, this feature also promotes the creativity and passion of modern female artists. The EASE ISSU E
|
13
The beginning is always today. – MARY WOLLSTONECRAFT
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
REALIZE
C HO O S E T O
Simplify with
Julia Rose
Simplify your life and coordinate your many roles through a radical to-do list strategy!
I
f you’re anything like me, then you wear MANY hats
I think some hearts may have just skipped a beat! Stay with
– mom, partner, neighbor, employer, employee, pet
me—everything will still get done. My system is simple—
owner, athlete, writer, home management specialist,
everything goes on ONE list. You heard me: One master list,
chef, entrepreneur, and the list goes on... Each role we take
that I just keep adding tasks to as the days go by! I call it the
on inevitably has responsibilities too; and that means a
“Never-ending To-Do List.”
TO-DO LIST! I have tried putting every task in my agenda in five minute time blocks and setting alerts to remind me to do them. I have made separate lists for home, work, finances, pets, and personal interests. And I have wasted more time than I’d like to admit adjusting lists, erasing and rescheduling items in my calendar, and feeling defeated because my lists are the same in the evening as when the day started. Anyone nodding yet? In an effort to bring myself back from the brink of a time
Before you write this off as crazy, here are a few suggestions that make it a more workable system: • Focus on those tasks that you need out of your head and in a visible place as a reminder to get them done. Don’t include routines like brushing your teeth or feeding the dog. Do continue to schedule meetings and appointments in your regular calendar. • Choose whatever documentation method works best for you: phone app, notebook, or legal pad. Just be sure the list is readily accessible.
management disaster, I discovered a way to live a fully engaged and prosperous life WITHOUT needing to know when everything was going to get done.
continued on next page
The EASE ISSU E
|
15
• Take this ever-evolving list with you everywhere. Every time you come across a moment where you have “free time,” consult the list and pick an item! I have crossed things off while waiting for a friend at a coffee shop, sitting in a waiting room for an appointment, and when a client gives me a heads up that they will be 15 minutes late. I feel rewarded when I use these moments productively instead of
Reflect + Release The following activities are meant to jump start your new simple life! Take 15 minutes a few days this week to reflect on all you've accomplished before you try this new strategy. •
Make a list of all the different general roles you play-mom, professional, daughter, etc. Next, under each of those categories, list out more specific roles; for example, chauffeur and medical liaison might go under the heading MOM. List as many as you can think of!
•
When you look at this list, which I assume has hundreds of "roles" on it, how do you feel? Circle any that you do an especially good job at, and cross out any that you no longer want to play. Take a few minutes to appreciate that you're a multi-faceted and amazing woman, and then get started on that To Do list!
scrolling through my Facebook feed or catching up on the latest viral videos. • For those of you who do need to meet deadlines, take a few minutes before bed every evening to highlight five things that are a priority for you. That way, you’ll know what items to tackle when a moment randomly presents itself the following day.
Who would have thought that a never-ending list would lead to a more simple life? When you blend all those tasks in your head on one master list, you will be surprised at how much you can actually accomplish in each day.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Julia Rose is a mission driven mom living her life with passion and purpose. As a counselor and parenting coach, she helps families create more peace, joy, and connection in their homes. You can find her on Facebook @createconnectionparenting. Photos by @createherstock
P H O T O by @ M A R K I E J O N E S P H O T O G R A P H Y L L C
REA D ER' S CH O I CE
February 2018: Create Fun by Unleashing Connection
June 2017: Create Fun by Unleashing Femininity
March 2017: Create Joy by Celebrating Brilliance
Katie M., TPY Reader, Arvada, CO
P. K. McGill, TPY Bestie, St. Augustine, FL
Casee M., TPY Contributor, Wallingford CT
The Fun Issue with Nadia Stieglitz made an
I love every issue of TPY, but one of my
This was one of the earliest issues I read when
impact on my everyday life. It was shocking to
favorite issues is Fun through Femininity – it
I first found the magazine online. Every article
me to realize how little value I had placed on
has a beautiful bedroom of someone I love
celebrates the softness and the strength of
just doing things for fun. During the process of
in the dwell section, a very different look at
womanhood in a way that left me looking at
setting up my new home, I keep going back to
femininity by my good friend Lydia Mandell
life with renewed playfulness and creativity,
the dwell article and try to keep “connection”
and Take 5 Q + A with five modern, feminine
truly empowered to step into my own
in mind as I set things up. We’ve been playing
women including the mayor of my city and my
authenticity. Cover lady Rebecca Casciano is
more games, hiking, and walking the dogs.
granddaughter! How can you beat that?!
radiant and joyful. Plus, this issue has one of
We have dance parties and act silly as a family.
my favorite Dwell spreads to date!
This issue really resonated! The EASE ISSU E
|
17
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
REALIZE
C HO O S E T O
Pause with
Julia Grimaldi
Every day is a new beginning, ripe for intentions to change, grow, and move forward.
A
fitting time to notice and reflect, a morning meal
Whether it be lingering alone in your kitchen, wrangling
comprises sustenance and intention. This simple, yet
others off to school, or listening to your favorite podcast on
weighty moment suggests pause and appreciation.
the way to work, step into each day, with the same promise,
We sit down before anything has happened (yet), and take
excitement, and curiosity with which we approach a new
the opportunity to think about how we may spend and use
year. Pray, meditate, enjoy your coffee. “Pretty� up your
our time and energy for the rest of the day, not the week,
overnight oats before posting on Instagram. Know and trust
month, or the year.
that your gifts, challenges, and achievements await.
In the mornings, we are rested. Surprisingly, for about eight hours, the world went on without us. We did nothing while we slept. No lists were made, emails sent or received, status’ updated, or deadlines made or missed. We come alive, awakening to a day filled with potential.
Julia is a holistic health & food coach. Learn more about her at CoachJuliaG.com. Photo by Mary Elizabeth, @itsmaryelizabeth.
The EASE ISSU E
|
19
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
REALIZE
C HO O S E T O
Adapt A blush gimlet adapts to the season or the mood of the mixologist just as every woman readily adapts to the situation at hand.
TITLE Blush Gimlet TEXT A blush gimlet adapts to the season or the mood of the mixologist just as every woman readily adapts to the situation at hand. When was the last time you enjoyed a classic cocktail? Just walked into the bar and ordered something fun, flirty, and feminine? We’re not talking ͞girly͟ drinks with pink umbrellas—though those can be fun, too!—we mean classic fun: stylish & sophisticated, with a twist fun. By themselves, the ingredients are strong, provocative. Mixed together, the grapefruit juice, gin, and splash of sweetener are divinely refreshing. Just the right amount of feminine. Just the right amount of fun. Add rosemary or a sprig of mint, depending on your mood. Or let your bartender decide. As long as the glass is pretty and the ice cubes plenty, the blush gimlet is going to make cocktail hour a whole lot more fun.
PHOTO by Life Unstill Photography.
The EASE ISSU E
|
21
REALIZE
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
C HO O S E
Awareness with
Julia Grimaldi
A complete movement practice that celebrates the present moment, Yoga is where we find beautiful, energized calm.
Through the practice of breath and posture, we discover a profound awareness of our physical and psychological states. Being attuned, we can then direct the thoughts, feelings, and responses we have every day—even in the most demanding situations. Want grounding? Stand in mountain pose. Desire rest? Find child pose. We discover inner focus when we close our eyes. We can play when we turn ourselves upside down. Yoga is a mental, spiritual, and physical practice; a meditation in motion. When we are called to show our biggest and best selves, we manifest the warrior omnipresent in all of us.
Photos by Walker Studio LLC, @walkerstudiosllc
The EASE ISSU E
|
23
CORE VALUES BANNER ($30) ( from $50) Maker: A Beautiful Refuge @abeautifulrefuge, Kirsten Price @kirstenmariedesign
REALIZE
C H O O S E CO L L A BO RAT I O N
The Perpetual You's online marketplace is a place where women can shop consciously and with ease. Each of our goods is a product of a collaboration we've done with one or more female small batch creatives. We know and trust these women, and we are certain you'll be attracted to and impressed by each woman's handicraft, aesthetic, and creative philosophy. *To get to know more about any of the collaborating makers, visit the Instagram account next to her name.
AUGUST 2016
DECEMBER 2016
Marketplace opens with products collaborations from 4 makers - Candles, Leather Journal Covers, Pillows, and Mala Necklaces
Pop-Up shops in Boston, MA and Shelton, CT
NOVEMBER 2016 Leather Keychains added to TPY Marketplace; first Pop-Up shop @ VASU Tribe Holiday Market in Hartford, CT
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
MARCH 2018 TPY Marketplace sponsors The Wellness Lounge @ INSPIRE--a photographer's retreat in Southbury, CT
DECEMBER 2017 New items added to TPY Marketplace, including our 2018 Mantra Calendar, Core Values Banner, and Art Prints
MAY 2018 TPY Marketplace sponsors a gift basket of small-batch made goods for the Bethesda Spring Fair in New Haven, CT
APRIL 2018 New items added to TPY Marketplace, including Mother's Day Cards, Poetry Bookmarks, and Self-Care Magnets; Pop-Up shop @ Earth Day Fair, Quinnipiac U in Hamden, CT
More Vendor Events + More Collaborations To Come!
From Top: TRAVELERS NOTEBOOK ($89) ( from $50) Maker: Red Pen Travelers @redpentravelers ∙ SELF-CARE MAGNETS ( from $2) Maker: Christy M. Johnson, @cmjohnsonart ∙ BIG MALA NECKLACE ($67) Maker: Leocadia K., @caitsherrick ∙ MANTRA PILLOW ( from $77) Maker: Casa & Co., @casaandco ∙ POETRY BOOKMARKS ( from $5) Makers: Casee Marie @hopeandharbor, Jessie Leiber @littlelegendsdesign ∙ DESIRED FEELINGS CANDLES ( from $10) Maker: Rayne Home Decor, @raynehomedecor
Shop all our products at bit.ly/TPYmarketplace!
The EASE I SSU E
|
25
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
P H O T O by @ M O J A L V O L E T T E R I N G by @ T H I S D E L I G H T F U L D E S I G N
REALIZE
C HO O S E
Openness with photographer
Corey Lynn Tucker
To travel is to know other cultures, experience the unknown, try new things, get out of your comfort zone, test your limits, strengthen your muscles and build new relationships. You can take what you learned from your experiences and apply that to your life wherever you are located.
The EASE ISSU E
|
27
I
combined a recent trip to Portland & Seattle for a friend’s wedding with an exploration of Washington, through the Olympic National Park and down to Cannon Beach in Oregon—all in one week! It was an epic undertaking, but we did
it. We traveled over 1,000 miles by car and hiked a lot. We car camped, stayed in an AirBnB, and even crashed at a friend’s house on our last night in Portland. The culture and environment in Portland was super laid-back, friendly and liberal. Living in an environment with like-minded folks creates more opportunity to be creative and express who you really are vs. having to conform to societies’ norms. I’m all about breaking the rules and just being my authentic self. Diversity of age, gender, sexual preference, art, bike lanes, music and outdoor activities feed the soul. The mountains represent strength and grounding for me. When I’m doing yoga, now I have an even clearer vision of mountain or tree pose. I’ve always had a deep connection to trees. Seeing the largest Sitka Spruce tree in the world reminded me that trees are witnesses of history and time; record keepers of the weather, environment, and social world.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Shop Visit the travel section of Corey’s website to purchase prints or canvases of this month’s travel photos.
Washington and Oregon also move at a slower pace, giving you a chance to breathe and not be in a rush. It’s a good reminder to give myself plenty of time before going somewhere, to keep being who I am and expressing my style and way I see the world. The mountains, forests, and ocean have always called to my spirit, the big open skies and vast landscapes have my heart. I left recharged with a new zest for living, and the confidence to create.
Corey Lynn Tucker is a photographer who uses the beauty in colors, style, and her environment to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary. When she’s not photographing intimate destination weddings or elopements, you can find her foraging or growing organic vegetables and cooking up something delicious with her husband. See more at coreylynntuckerphotography.com.
The EASE ISSU E
|
29
REALIZE
Choose Knowledge with Leigh Schwab
The concept of transparency is gaining a lot of traction these days - from organic to non-gmo foods to hidden banking fees. It’s time that we demand transparency from our products and the companies we support.
H
ave you always assumed that your skin care and
disclose to their clients, not because they have to but because
cosmetics are strictly regulated for your health? If
we as consumers have made it known that we’re tired of using
you have, then you are wrong. There is very little
toxic products. Some of my favorites are Beautycounter, Violets
regulation of ingredients in cosmetics and skin care in the United States, though we’ve made some progress over the last year—going from the U.S. banning only 11 ingredients to now 30 banned ingredients. These include many ingredients found in
are Blue, and One Love Organics. If we are to live intentionally, we must demand transparency in all areas of our lives, especially our daily skincare and beauty
antibacterial soap!
routines. We need to know what the ingredients ARE, where
Fortunately, there are many companies out there producing
still well-made.
highly effective products using safe ingredients that they
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
they come from, and also be able to trust that the products are
1
BeYOUtiful Small batch companies are becoming increasingly popular. Here are a few recommendations that exceed all expectations of highly effective and safe products. When switching to small batch, try going one product at a time so that you can fully enjoy each new experience.
1
Soap Conventional soaps and body washes can contain harmful ingredients like triclosan and sodium laurel sulfate. It is best to choose an oil based soap that won’t strip your skin.
Leigh recommends: Willow + Birch Apothecary Soaps or Dr. Bronner’s Pure-Castille Liquid Soap
2
2
Deodorant There are plenty of clean and effective deodorants on the market these days. Make sure you look for one without aluminum. Most safe deodorants use baking soda but if you have sensitive skin look for one without this ingredient.
Leigh recommends: Meow Meow Baking Soda Free Deodorant Cream or Violets are Blue NYC.
3
Lip Balm Many conventional lip cosmetics can contain heavy metals like lead. Choose products that have been rigorously tested for heavy metals or look for clean versions of lip balm to insure that you are not ingesting these harmful chemicals.
Leigh recommends: Moroccan Magic or Handcrafted Honeybee
3
Leigh Schwab uses her love for skin care to help educate women about the ingredients in their products and the need for proper skin care legislation in our country. Learn more about her passion for a healthy and simple life on Facebook and Instagram @leighschwab. Photos by Walker Studios, @walkerstudiosllc
The EASE ISSU E
|
31
REALIZE
Choose Nourishment with
Cait Sherrick
Short on time? Short on motivation? Throw a little self-care into your style choices.
W
hen was the last time you took a moment for
yourself first. You can’t give something you don’t have. And the
yourself? When you’re constantly on the go for your
only one who can take care of you the way you need to be taken
kids or your business or your day job, it’s easy to be
care of while you’re constantly on the go is YOU.
so wrapped up in life, you lose sight of your joy. People rely on you, dreams need to be nourished, bills need to be paid. Your
Tap into some warm layers so you can feel (and share) joy more
needs just aren’t a priority right now.
freely. Layer a puffy vest over your plaid shirt. Throw a cardigan
I get it, babe, I really do.
about everything. Better yet, wear two big blanket scarves with
Here’s the thing, though. The only way you can provide for your kids or your dreams or your job is if you make sure to provide for
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
over your favorite t-shirt. Wear a big blanket scarf with just just about everything.
Celebrate a Blanket Scarf Versatile yet intimate, a blanket scarf layers over any outfit for an extra dose of warmth and joy.
1
Wrapped. Wear your favorite sweater with some skinny jeans and ankle boots. Throw on a hat and a long necklace, and wrap yourself in your scarf like it’s a big blanket. Simple, comfortable, and warm, you can go from backyard fires to indoor gatherings with ease.
1
Pictured: blanket scarf, green sweater, blue jeans, bean boots, hat, Leocadia K. Athena Necklace
2
2
Draped. Drape your blanket scarf around your neck and pair it with a baseball tee, your most comfortable jeans, and a leather jacket. Slip on a pair of converse and layer a long necklace under the scarf. A refreshingly stylish combo, this look works for day, night, or all weekend long. Pictured: blanket scarf, baseball tee, blue jeans, converse, leather jacket, Leocadia K. Sloane Necklace
3
Tied. Tie your scarf around your neck, layered over a plaid shirt and a puffy vest. Pair it with some torn jeans, some wet weather boots, and a few bracelets. You can go from pumpkin picking to grocery shopping in this look and be stylish yet comfortable the whole time. Pictured: blanket scarf, plaid shirt, black jeans, ankle boots, puffy vest, Leocadia K. Bracelets
3
Putting yourself first when making style choices is an easy yet empowering form of self-care. You can make any outfit YOURS simply by choosing things you want to wear because you want to wear them. When you put yourself first in this way, it’s fulfilling and authentic and a heck of a lot more joyful to take care of all the things.
Cait Sherrick is a jewelry designer + stylist for mildly rebellious flow-goers at Leocadia K. She’s deeply inspired by modern art, has a boho heart + loves the warm, unconditional love of a good cup of chai tea. Join her on Instagram @caitsherrick for daily inspiration + visit her shop for more every day outfit ideas. Featured photo by @beyond_your_plate.
The EASE ISSU E
|
33
P H O T O by @ M A R K I E J O N E S P H O T O G R A P H Y L L C
P E R SP ECT I V ES from T H E PA N EL
Q
How has The Perpetual You added ease to your life?
Reading through the magazine is a simple way to add mindfulness and
Shayna Holistic Life Coach @shaynamahoneyxo shaynamahoney.com
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
joy to your day. It provides inspiration, simple and useful tools to be present, ideas to be thoughtful at home and out in the world, and reallife female empowerment. The publication is beautiful inside and out. I believe it is important to surround yourself with women who believe in positivity, hope, and doing the deeper work to lead a fulfilled life.
REALIZE
Cathey
Just seeing a woman smiling, genuinely happy in her body generates a connection to my true self-and then I am at
TPY Partner + Collaborator
peace once again. I am so grateful for the community of
@update
such beautiful women and their willingness to share.
Summer Health & Wellness Coach @summer_delaine summerdelaine.com
The TPY community has made it okay to be me. It is a beautiful platform that celebrates the differences and life approaches of women everywhere. Because it is a safe space to cultivate that individuality, it has allowed an easing of expectations. And in today's world that is everything.
By providing a sense of connection and inspiration. The
Allison Sensual Living Coach @allisonlrichard allisonrichard.com
magazine and online community reminds me that there are other like-minded souls who are striving to live a beautiful and intentional life, built on the foundation of love. I always experience a sense of ease, audibly exhale, and physically tingle to feel the sense of connection, support and aligned purpose.
These days, every magazine you pick up has headlines such as lose that last 10 lbs, how to perfect the smokey eye, ten easy steps to six pack abs, etc. Not that there is anything wrong with wanting those
Lesley
things but I love food and will never attempt a smokey eye or have a desire for six pack abs. The women in TPY are on the same page
TPY Collaborator
as me: happy without being perfect. I so enjoy flipping through the
@mrsp825
pages and seeing creative and inspiring ideas and thoughts.
The EASE ISSU E
|
35
T O O L K I T curated by T P Y S T A F F, P H O T O by @ J A Y N A C O W A L
REALIZE
August Self-Care Get Grounded. Find a calm space to
relax and recharge. Outfit it with oils, stones, and accessories that bring you peace and allow you to reconnect with your inner gaia.
Pay Attention. Need a destressor? To stop time in its tracks, pay attention to the littlest of details throughout your day. Carry a small notepad to jot down a list of items or moments that brought you ease.
C H O O S E I N N ER W I S D O M
Within our heart, we all know what we need for optimum wellbeing. Learning to hear that wisdom, and having the tools to change, is a powerful feeling. In times of low energy, seek balance from the earth and her gifts: herbs, oils, and natural stones. Use this month's self-care toolkit to create rituals that allow you to tune in to your natural rhythms, divine intuition, and honed coping skills. Replenish your energy and face each challenge with enthusiasm and ease.
E S S E N T I A L O IL
H ERB
CRYS TAL
GODDE SS
Cedarwood
Hibiscus
Labradorite
Maeve
BENEFITS
BENEFITS
BENEFIT S
BENEFI TS
Benefits: Imparts strength and encourages independence
Nourishes; revives energy
Releases inner power, wisdom, and strength
Honors the body's cycles and energy levels
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
A grateful shout-out to Ashley Dees for curating our Wellness Spread during our first two years!
to align your physical space with your ever-evolving self
EASE E | GALLE 37 A RT WThe O RK by ISSU @ JAMIE Y
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
A R T by @ A M A N D A L U I S A A R T
Salt + Pepper Shakers /' sôlt + 'pep r 'SHāk rs / noun e
e
A touch of whimsy, a sprinkling of taste, and a dash of kitsch.
Left Collage of some of the Dwellings featured in our magazine from Sept 2015 - July 2018
The EASE I SSU E
|
39
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
DW E L L
House Play H O W T O D E S I G N A H O M E T H AT R E P R E S E N T S Y O U with
Sarah Bennett
Opening up your home to match your true essence similarly requires courage and vulnerability, but brings the reward of a safe haven in which you can truly feel comfortable.
E
ver since I was little girl, I have found great joy in
chapters in my life thus far. Old quilts, weathered chairs or
creating my personal space. I am more introverted and
tables that have been passed down, the things I keep in my
a creative, so designing a private space has allowed
home tell my visitors about who I am.
me to play and express who I am. What better platform to reveal your essence? There are no restrictions and no one’s telling you what to do. Having a space that’s all yours to claim
Incorporating words that are uplifting or welcoming in various areas of my home are another design element that brings
is liberating.
me a feeling of ease. I purchased an “IT’S OK” banner from
When it comes to setting up my home, I take time to feel the
reassuring and comforting to have present on my walls.
space and respond to mapping it out based on my feelings. For example, I take into account where windows are and what sort of light comes in during the day. Since I work from home it’s important that I create a space that feels somewhat separate
Secret Holiday & Co. because those simple words for me are
When designing or decorating your home, write down a few words that explain who you are. From there you can start to pull together accessories that light you up! Maybe you splurge
from my living area – a challenge with a one-bedroom home!
on a chunky merino knit throw blanket because it represents
I’ve found ways to make it work by including pretty room
display old rusted industrial tools you’ve collected that exude
dividers, curtains, and carving out a little nook that perfectly
your love for history and texture.
fits my desk. This allows me to feel a sense of separation. Small and awkward spaces are wonderful creative challenges; I’ve
softness, warmth and that handmade quality. Or maybe you
Above all, have fun with it. Make mistakes, move things
seen people make beautiful workstations out of a tiny closet!
around, sit in your space with no other agenda than
The first question I ask myself when I enter a new home or
Liberate yourself from any restricting thoughts and have
redesigning my space is “how can I illustrate my style and
fun putting your stamp on your precious space and being
my story here?”. I like to bring in art pieces I’ve created, or
unapologetically YOU.
just figuring out who you are. There are no rules, sister!
paintings/photographs that close family and friends have created and of course interesting vintage items that are aligned with my style. I’m a sentimental gal so I jump at any chance to showcase beautiful items that have a story linked to my family or
Sarah is a vintage curator, designer, and stylist living in Oregon. Follow Sarah’s intentional design process at @Sariehere. Photo by Mayumi at Celebrate Well
The EASE ISSU E
|
41
Featured Space Australia-based artist @hayley_gillespie_art has a home that showcases imagination backed by skill and artistry.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
DWELL
Artistic License SHOWCASING PERSONALITY IN YOUR HOME. with
LaToya Burton
Approach your space like a canvas for playful expression, and watch the magic happen.
W
elcome to the home of Hayley Gillespie, a joyful artist living in Cairns, Australia. Against a neutral background of white +
grey, Hayley’s furniture acts as a strong container to hold the fanciful light turquoise-y blues and pastel pinks, with other colorful possessions layered in. Hayley loves her combined lounge, dining area, and library because it is where her beloved book collection lives. She has books from her childhood that she still references today mixed with inspirational art books that she loves to sit and peruse on a quiet Sunday afternoon.
continued on page 46
The EASE I SSU E
|
43
Hayley isn’t just a pro at mixing and matching patterns &
To create a space that really suits you and your deepest
colors; she also interweaves furniture styles from different
desires for joy, walk through your home and ask: Is there an
time periods. Her 60s bar and paraphernalia make her smile,
opportunity to do something out of the ordinary here? Where
so she doesn't hesitate to place it next to her country style
can I infuse more delight? How can I reveal more of my playful
dining setting. These juxtapositions create a space full of
self to those who visit my home?
whimsy - a cabinet of wonder to wander through.
Remember whimsy calls for breaking the rules a bit! Take
By displaying her own artwork alongside other artists who
a cue from Hayley’s colorful, delightful, full-of-personality
inspire her, Hayley shows comfort with taking risks; she’s
home. May her artistic license invite you to view your home
unafraid to use her home as a testing ground. Though she
with fresh eyes and to welcome more whimsy and delight into
mixes things up quite regularly, everything is thoughtfully
your space.
placed—often with a bit of humor.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Dwell on This Your home is your chance to try new things: to step out of the shoulds and into new possibilities. When you feel safe and comfortable playing with your décor, the results will give you the confidence to blossom in other areas of your life.
1
Books and Such. Ever wondered what’s underneath all those covers of your hardback books? I am a believer in sorting your bookshelf by color at least once in your life! Take those covers off and reveal a display-ready rainbow. Once arranged as you like it grab a few color-coded accessories from around your home to tuck in amongst the books for an added touch of whimsy.
2
This and That. It is said that if you have three or more of something then you have a collection—whether it be a grouping of plants, antique toys, or quirky button coasters. Will your collections live on a shelf in the bathroom, on a mantle, or in a display case or box in your kitchen? Also, try hanging something directly on a wall for a 3-D display of your personality quirks.
3
Odds and Ends. Let's play! Place something in a location you would not normally think of. An animal figurine under a glass dome? A playful mask or quirky lamp displayed amongst more formal pieces? Dapple fun moments throughout your room to be discovered by yourself and guests. Choose things that represent your best memories from childhood or your current sense of humor and enjoy it anew every time you walk by.
LaToya is a mama / imaginer / gypsy nomad who explores life through the lens of interiors imagination and inspiration. She lives on a bus with her husband and son exploring the Australian landscape. For more inspiration, follow her @latoyaburton_musing. Photos courtesy of Maria Nguyen @zenphotography_au
The EASE I SSU E
|
45
•
Transformation through Creation A T I N Y H O U S E S T O RY
Words by Tessa Chittle Photos by Markie Lynn Jones T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
The EASE ISSU E
|
47
DWELL
If I had listened to the signs from the universe, this tiny house would never have been built. Everything went wrong from the beginning and nothing was simple. As someone who has mostly found it easy to succeed in school, climb the corporate ladder, and start new business ventures, this project was a big lesson for me in failure and perseverance at every turn. And yet…. no project has ever felt more natural or in flow with the world I want to create.
FROM HEARTBREAK TO HOME First, our “ingenious” idea to raise funds to build the tiny house through pre-booking The Tiny House Farmstay on Kickstarter was not successful. The first of many ego crushing failures. Without any funds, we re-evaluated our plans and decided to renovate our own home for Farmstays, only to get told no by a contractor. Heartbreak.
continued on page 50
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Creativity is an act of defiance. – TWYLA THARP
The EASE I SSU E
|
49
After reconnecting with our values, we found that The Chittle Homestead Tiny House Farmstay was still in alignment with everything we wanted to stand for in the world. We began looking into loans to make it happen. Business loan? Not enough time as a business yet so we opted to refinance our home. The first attempt came back not approved. Heartbreak. We reorganized our loan application to FINALLY make it happen. Then came the difficulties with finding the right builder, doing what we wanted within our budget, and all the times my builder said my vision was impossible. More Heartbreak. Once the building got underway, the obstacles kept coming. An initial discussion with the health department made all we wanted to do—serve delicious farm to table food from our land to fuel creation and community—feel impossible. Then, our current home insurance rejected our request for new coverage. Heartbreak, again.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Then came the delays. The house was not ready as expected for summer farmstays. Then it was not ready for our summer harvest dinner. Now, the huge cost of hooking up electric and water to the house means it is still not totally ready for our fall farmstay visitors and will barely (hopefully!) be done before our baby boy is born in late September. Heartbreak. Heartbreak. Heartbreak. The emotional roller coaster has caused moments of questioning my vision and my abilities, but every time my family and I reconnect back to our life manifesto that outlines our values, it all comes back to this tiny house—a space for people to grow connection, flex their creative muscles, eat delicious farm to table food, and be empowered to live by their values. This is the world we want to create.
continued on next page
The EASE ISSU E
|
51
FROM DREAM TO DIY When the tiny house was finally delivered to our homestead, the real work began. We highly value sustainability and health, so we chose to work with a builder who used all local, green, and healthy products including denim as insulation in the walls, a locally made trailer, and sustainably harvested wood. To offset the higher price, we DIY-ed some projects ourselves. Upon delivery, the entire kitchen had to be added including cabinets, countertops, shelves, and appliances. Both the inside and outside needed paint and stain. The murphy bed, farm table, and rolling ottomans needed to be built, and the
Each one of these DIY projects was like a mini-version of the larger tiny house building experience: excitement, ideas, and planning; stuckness and confusion; new ideas and actions; more failure, more stuckness, and feelings of impossibility. Then more planning, new solutions, and more action. Again and again, I came face to face with this process of creating, allowing me to sit in both the struggles and the triumphs of the creative process, to reconnect with my deepest values, to determine if I wanted to continue. Over time, the patterns of creating became more familiar and easier to move through without getting stuck.
sliding door to the downstairs bedroom needed to be designed and installed.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
continued on page 54
TINY HOUSE BUILD BY
Brett Marlo Design Build D E CO R A N D F I N I S H E S B Y
Tessa Chittle
B O O K A FA R M S TAY AT
thechittlehomestead.com/ thefarmstay
The EASE ISSU E
|
53
I don't believe things need to be hard to be worth doing. I often support my coaching clients in finding the method of getting what they want through simplicity and ease, and encourage paying attention to that which comes naturally and organically. Still, sometimes doing bold things without a template or tutorials takes time and a lot of tries. I know something hard is still worth doing if I brush off the ego-smashing failures and gut-wrenching heartbreak, and still feel like waking up the next day and continuing to create. if the creation still aligns with the life I want to live and the world I want to create, then I keep going. During this process, it often felt like the universe was screaming “no” at every turn. I came to believe that “listening to the universe” is less about noticing the obstacles piling up and more about trusting my instincts and intuition even when things are going wrong.
F R O M FA I L U R E T O FA R M S TAY It’s easy to beat yourself up over every failure and feel like you’re not capable of anything. Been there done that. What I notice as a homesteader, DIYer, and entrepreneur is that after going through the creative process enough times, I know at a deep level that failure isn’t about my skills or abilities. Birthing something brand new into the world just takes time, patience, and trying new things. Some phases of creation entail a flurry of action and accomplishment. Other phases take time, percolation, planning, and organic movement that we don't control. By practicing creation in many formats (whether it’s a simple home decor project or creating a new workshop!), I have experience to know nothing is utterly impossible or to recognize when I’m stuck in “procrastination.” I stop attaching to the feelings of inadequacy and instead wait patiently for the next burst of inspiration or ingenious solution. Our culture does not often encourage us to utilize the skills of creation, especially in the creation of bold unconventional things without templates or tutorials. Therefore, every creation in any realm (whether it be a craft, a home renovation, a business, or designing an unconventional life), is an act of flexing muscles we don't often use. Creation is also an act of defying the messages that we are dependent on things outside of ourselves for our
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Tiny Space, Big Choices In a small space, priorities become even more essential. Whether you’re designing a tiny house, like we did, or remodeling a guest bath, there’s no space to waste. Every inch of our tiny house represents our values.
1
Comfort. We opted for real stairs rather than a ladder and full railings around the loft to keep kiddos safe and parents relaxed. In addition, we chose to have a downstairs bedroom option, as well as a long table and comfy couch for families to gather around.
2
Sustainability. From the recycled denim insulation to a composting toilet, we chose local and sustainable at every turn. Décor came from craigslist and antique stores or Etsy craftsmen. We used non-toxic paints and stains, and included air-purifying plants.
3
Privacy. Thank goodness the days of kitsch behind glass doors is over! #Amiright? As kids, we displayed everything—from handmade projects to collections of miniature goodies. We kept it at the ready because it made us happy, and there’s no reason that practice has to change. To keep from getting too cluttered or stale, group like items and switch out decorative trinkets by season.
happiness, wellbeing, and health. Knowing I can bring anything into existence gives me confidence. I become more empowered with every creative act, whether it ultimately fails or succeeds. Practicing the creative process in various formats
4
Since visitors to the homestead are offered intimate cooking, homesteading, and life design experiences, we wanted our tiny house to be able to seat 8 people comfortably for these mini workshop gatherings. The 6-foot storage bench behind the table along with the 7-foot couch make it easy to gather around to learn together in an inspiring space.
turns failure into familiarity, allowing my ideas to flourish without being restricted by self-doubt, fear, or overwhelm—feelings that will always be familiar but need not become obstacles. After all the heartbreak and failure, all the hard work and DIY projects, we are about to officially open our
Intimacy.
5
Function. Sliding barn doors are quite functional in tiny houses because they don’t take up any “swing space.” To save on the trendy price, we made it ourselves, with a vintage door off craigslist and about $25 worth of other parts easily found at a hardware store.
doors for Farmstay visitors! By creating something tangible, from my deepest values, I have realized a dream, and I also know that I’ve contributed to the betterment of the world.
6 Tessa Chittle is a Revolutionary Life & Business Strategist and creator of The Chittle Homestead, a farm where creativity and bold life design are nourished by delicious farm to table food. She is also a Homesteading Mama, lover of upcycled creations and beautiful design, and visionary. Follow her homestead journey on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.
Beauty. We chose to put in lots of windows and keep high ceilings in the gathering space rather than adding a second loft. This creates a very open space filled with light and beautiful views of the flower garden, forest, and goats. We chose decor thoughtfully that was beautiful and functional, yet minimal.
Photos by Markie Lynn Jones
The EASE I SSU E
|
55
Shop the Look Refresh your front door with a sunny, summery paint color, and add style with these suggested home products, originally featured in
P H O T O B Y WA L K E R S T U D I O S , @ WA L K E R S T U D I O S L L C
our June 2016 issue.
WOODEN WELCOME TAG by Creations by L. Love ( from $17.50) ∙ MEDALLION DOOR MAT from Target ($12.99) ∙ T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
GEM HANGING L ANTERN from Pier 1 Imports ($69.95)
I Believe in Pink corresponds to Benjamin Moore 2010-70
Enchanting corresponds to Benjamin Moore 2126-60
More is More corresponds to Benjamin Moore CW-600
Classy & Fabulous corresponds to Benjamin Moore 2118-20
F E MI NI NE + FABU LOU S
This color palette, featured in our January 2016 issue, is one of our favorites because it's a glamorous, updated take on a classic bathroom scheme. Already love your bathroom? Here are a few other ideas for infusing these colors into your dwelling space:
Never Say Never corresponds to Benjamin Moore CW-430
Girlboss Glam.
Closet Divine.
Passion for Patterns.
Use these saturated colors
This color combo is perfect for
Bring in a sense of whimsy
to glam up your office
your favorite feminine space,
through pink-hued textiles.
dĂŠcor. We're picturing fluffy
like a walk-in closet. Add a soft
To elevate the look, try
pink pillows, metallic office
pink shag rug, incorporate
sophisticated patterns like
accessories, and modern art in
glossy black details, and
paisley or damask. To keep a
shades of blue.
accent with gold fixtures.
space casual and fun, accent with more modern fabrics in gold or black & white. Polkadots, anyone?
P H O T O B Y WA L K E R S T U D I O S , @ WA L K E R S T U D I O S L L C
The EASE ISSU E
|
57
L E T T E R I N G by @ A L L S H E W R O T E N O T E S
to align your life story with your ever-evolving sense of self
A RT W O RK by @ L I T T L E LEGENDS DES IGN
Left Collage of some of our Covers from Aug 2015 - July 2018
T H REE Q U ES T I O N S
with
lee lee
What’s one practice in your daily life
What's one aspect of your space that
For you, what is the relationship of
that brings you Joy?
brings you or reminds you of Rarity?
Rarity to Joy?
I practice an ‘attitude of gratitude’ by finding three new things each day for which I'm grateful. I’m not regimented with this – I don’t journal about it each night or morning, I just make time for this each day. I’ve noticed that my attitude toward obstacles and my business changed dramatically when I started doing this. I am inspired and I feel I attract more good things just by noticing good things.
In my home and my shop you will see a mix of styles, everything from French to Shabby Chic. I wanted my space to keep me both in the past and present, but above all to stand out and be unique! I devote a great deal of time to finding unique pieces to adorn my home or to bring to my customers, and more time re-imagining that piece by repainting or refinishing in some way.
I bring passion, enthusiasm, and energy to everything I do. Part of my job is taking vintage furniture pieces and transforming them from dark, dated and drab to "shabby chic fab" – the process is often monotonous, but using my talents and gifts to bring new life to an item that will bring a customer years of happiness provides joy in what would otherwise be a mundane process.
The EASE ISSU E
|
61
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Collecting Wisdom, Sharing Love AN INTROSPECTION INTO THE S T O RY O F T H E P E R P E T U A L Y O U AND ITS FOUNDER, LEE LEE
with
Marie Levey-Pabst
Additional reporting and editing by Photography by
Casee Marie
Markie Jones The EASE I SSU E
|
63
I first stumbled upon The Perpetual You magazine in a Facebook group. At the time I was still finding my way as an entrepreneur. My business was just getting off the ground, and I was looking for places to submit my writing as a guest post, or even perhaps as a paid writer.
A woman named Lee Lee posted in a women-
This magazine is different, I thought. Though I couldn’t
entrepreneurs group about writing opportunities for an
pinpoint the exact difference at the time, I recognized
online magazine, so I immediately got on her email list
that there seemed to be a kind of collective wisdom
and filled out the “I’d like to be a contributor” contact
within the pages.
form. Then, I read the articles and blog posts in the publication I had just applied to write for (I was an eager
Soon after that, co-founder, editor, and publisher of The
beaver who did things a bit backwards at the time).
Perpetual You magazine, Lee Lee McKnight, emailed
What I read impressed me. This was clearly a lifestyle
the Perspectives section. The next month, I contributed
publication, complete with side bars with beauty
a blog post. Then, after editing that post, Lee Lee
products and articles about home decor; however--as
mentioned that she was going to be in the Boston area,
I read through the articles--I found myself connecting
and would I like to meet for coffee?
to the magazine in a different way than I connected with the copies of “Real Simple” that I’d perused at my mother-in-law’s house. • I felt inspired to look at my home differently, without necessarily wanting to change everything about it. • I felt curious about my relationship with my own children, without guilt or being driven to change the way I acted as a mother. • I felt thoughtful about my living space, without a sudden need to buy out the Container Store.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
me and suggested that I start by being a panelist in the
That was two and a half years ago. The Perpetual You is now FOUR years old, and I’m proud to say that I’ve been a part of that journey--both through articles I’ve written and through the friendships and connections I’ve developed with other members of TPY community. Not only have we become good friends, but Lee Lee and I also started co-hosting a podcast called Mama Now Conversations. What started as an attempt to share my writing has turned into a creative and collaborative experience that has truly enriched my life.
THE PROPELLING FORCE The story of The Perpetual You is also the story of Lee Lee, a woman driven not just by her own experience but by her fierce desire to challenge social norms that dim the bright lights of women who love themselves. The driving belief in her life and work is that “You don’t need to be anyone one else. You can ‘Be You.’” Just before the summer the magazine was co-founded, Lee Lee and her family moved from their home in the Boston area to Connecticut--an important moment of settling and finding community. She had also just begun her individual intentional living journey,
THE INTENTIONAL PERSPECTIVE
the same kind of authentic, mindful
At the start of The Perpetual You, Lee Lee understood that there are several
living that became the focus of The Perpetual You. The mother of two children, Lee Lee is blessed to have unconditional love and support from her husband & coparent, who has supported her in every step of her path towards creating and growing The Perpetual You. She has also cultivated a community of likeminded women who believe in the mission of
different ways to create a publication like a magazine. One of the more traditional paths is to have an editor or editing team decide on topics and even “clickbait” titles, and then hire freelance writers to go out and research and write those pieces. Very intentionally, though, Lee Lee and her sister--with whom she co-founded the magazine--planned for The Perpetual You to be a collaborative endeavor. Insead of hiring writers to research information and then dispense advice on how women should live their lives, the magazine invites their collaborators to contribute to a collective conversation about intentional living.
TPY, as well as in her ability to bring it to fruition.
continued on next page
The EASE ISSU E
|
65
“It’s most important that our contributors be authentic and vulnerable on the page,” says Lee Lee. “They are experts, not in how everyone else should live their lives, but in how they are living their lives with intention.” Because collaborators are sharing their own wisdom, they are asked to be vulnerable and authentic on the page. It’s this authenticity that truly stands out in every issue of The Perpetual You.
THE ROUTE TO AUTHENTICITY The importance of authenticity is evident from page 1 of each magazine. The initial article could easily be a listicle of things you should do to make your home more organized/be happier/be a nicer person, etc. Instead, that article holds an authentic and vulnerable example of a real woman’s process of trying to live intentionally, or trying to bring more joy, ease, fun, or wealth into her life. As the magazine goes on, each subsequent article and each subsequent section goes deeper, moving from pieces about style and beauty, to intentional home design, to in-depth stories of women living mindfully and intentionally. By the end of the magazine, readers are being invited to face even the challenging parts of conscious living with ease, wealth, fun, and joy in mind. “Self-love is a radical concept that asks women to make a huge mindset shift,” says Lee Lee. Since some readers aren’t yet prepared for this type of shift, the magazine is intentionally structured to allow smaller epiphanies along the way. Those women who are ready to make this shift,” says Lee Lee, “can do so through our authentic invitations to pursue mindful practices, challenge long-held perceptions, and embrace one’s true self.”
T H E C O L L A B O R AT I V E M O D E L Interestingly enough, the hundreds of contributors TPY has worked with have not received financial compensation. Their contributions to the magazine are labors of love, commitment, and collaboration. As much as Lee Lee and her sister wanted to make a profit early on--any of us with a business knows-that’s rarely how things work.
continued on page 68
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
The EASE ISSU E
|
67
THE MAGIC OF HELP Finding collaborators to write for, photograph for, or provide art for the magazine isn’t something that comes naturally to Lee Lee, a lifelong introvert. One major shift was learning to reframe the daunting task of asking for help. Her mantra became, “If you don’t ask, they can’t say yes”--a re-frame on the common business advice that the worst thing someone can say when you ask for help is “No.” Lee Lee also explains that in the first year of the magazine she Early in the journey, collaborators with The Perpetual
learned that she needed to stop being attached to the outcome
You were all part of Lee Lee and her sister’s friends and
of any request she made. Asking someone to write or draw, or
family. When Lee Lee took over as Managing Editor in
do a photoshoot for the magazine with all of her hopes tied up
April of 2016, she decided to step back from the money-
in getting a “yes” was making the process of asking even more
making focus, and find ways to grow the brand organically
stressful and unpleasant.
and naturally.
Over time, she has gained the wisdom that part of what makes
Taking “that step back to rethink our model,” says Lee
collaboration so magical is when she asks lots of amazing women
Lee, only redoubled efforts toward the collaborative
to collaborate with The Perpetual You and then trusts that the
aspect of the magazine. This intentional choice to focus
Universe will deliver those women who need to be involved to her.
on collaboration and organic growth started the path on
She laughs in our interview as she realizes that she now writes
which the magazine became the collection of wisdom it
almost 3-4 emails a day with some kind of ask--an activity she
is today.
wouldn’t have imagined doing so often four years ago.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
THE BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY Of course, like most important life decisions, Lee Lee’s shift to seeking collaborators (instead of trying to do everything herself) came out of both desire and need. In the first year of The Perpetual You, Lee Lee found empowerment in creating something all on her own, which included redesigning her home so that she could write about it for the magazine--all while taking care
Intentional Living 101
of her then three-year-old son and pursuing her individual intentional living journey. By year 2, it was clear that remodeling, parenting, and being the editor of a magazine wasn’t sustainable, or even enjoyable! “I wanted to keep
As a lucky woman who gets to talk to Lee Lee often,
doing the magazine,” says Lee Lee, “but not at
I’ve learned so much from her about infusing
the expense of my own self-care.” This led to Lee
intention into our choices & reactions, our living
Lee’s decision to make all aspects of the magazine
spaces, our bodies, and our emotions. The following
collaborative, even her precious Dwell section!
are some intentional living practices Lee Lee has
Lee Lee’s experience serves as a reminder that
shared with me:
when we seek out help and support, we are not the only ones who reap the benefits. The many, many women who collaborate with The Perpetual
1
A great source of joy in Lee Lee’s life is her practice of buying smallbatch items from makers she knows or admires. Whether it’s deodorant (Meow Meow Tweet!) or jewelry or art, she shops consciously so that she can support other women in business AND because she trusts that products made by women will bring her the feelings she desires.
You comprise a magical and unique community-one in which friendships have been formed, businesses have been started, and passion projects have been engineered.
THE IMPERFECT SOLUTION
2
been an adjustment to her desire for editorial perfection. When you have a lot of different themselves authentically, sometimes that means
Dwell. Intentional design offers lots of opportunity to keep a home fresh and fun. Lee Lee enjoys moving things around and creating new vignettes according to season, mood, or desired feelings. She’s also constantly searching for ways to make every corner of her home one that encourages and inspires creativity.
Another lesson for Lee Lee along the way has
contributors, and you want them to express
Realize.
3
Choose. Living according to core values means checking in with those values from time to time. Whether before a big purchase (do we really need this item?) or in the middle of a tough day (can anything else go wrong today?), Lee Lee checks in with her desires and compares her current feelings to those desires on an as-needed basis. Some weeks, this means checking in every day--or even more frequently!
letting go of perfect consistency of tone, word choice, or format. Lee Lee, a self-admitted perfectionist and control freak (!), explained that this was a challenge for her at first. Her role (and amazing expertise) as an editor means that she often looks for that consistently at first glance, and it’s all too easy to “rewrite things the way I like them to sound--or how I would say them,” she says.
4
Live. Affirmative mantras are Lee Lee’s go-to tool when it comes to huge mindset shifts. She doesn’t just believe in positive thinking--she’s immersed herself in it. Some of her favorites are “I have everything I need”; “Anxiety creates illusions”; “It’s okay to feel your feelings”; and “I’m not behind. I just am where I am.”
continued on next page
The EASE ISSU E
|
69
Befriending others online is comfortable; Lee Lee believes that true community is built out of “live” experiences where women are encouraged to (and can practice) be(ing) themselves. Events like monthly online salons or in-person gatherings blur the lines between contributor and reader, teacher and learner, professional and novice-which enriches the powerful combination of wisdom and empowerment at work in the TPY community.
T H E J O U R N E Y F O R WA R D When I asked Lee Lee about where she sees The Perpetual You going in the future, she responds honestly: “It’s been my pleasure to be the publisher for the last four years, and I’m ready for wherever the journey takes us next.” While she recognizes the potential growth inherent in a magazine like The Perpetual You, the most important thing is that the brand stay true to its mission of elevating the lives of women. As much as she wants to publish a print magazine, Lee Lee says that “remaining unattached Fortunately, as the project of The Perpetual You has evolved and
to financial success”--and to “all-or-nothing” thinking
grown, so has Lee Lee’s understanding of her role as both editor
in general--allows her to appreciate the community
and nurturer of a community. Keeping in mind that “authenticity
she’s cultivated rather than work toward some arbitrary
is the purpose of the magazine,” has led her to reframe some of
standard or goal.
the delightful quirks in a writer’s tone, for example, as a feature of authenticity rather than a problem she must “fix.”
“Intentional living is about being present and making mindful choices,” says Lee Lee. By choosing to let the
THE STRENGTH IN COMMUNITY The Perpetual You is so much more than a magazine: it’s a mission; one guided by a woman who believes deeply that all women deserve more Ease, Wealth, Fun, and Joy in their lives.
magazine unfold as its meant to, which includes inviting in collaborators from all walks of life with all different perspectives, “my focus can be on the sharing of wisdom”-which is what makes The Perpetual You special in the first place.
Lee Lee started The Perpetual You to transform women’s relationships with magazines; now, she’s also inviting them into a wise collective of authentic and insightful women. Lee Lee believes in the power of collective wisdom to transform women’s lives: their friendships, their self-worth, and their lifestyles. With this in mind, she cultivates a private Facebook group, The Perpetual You Society, where women can hang out with other women who are walking an intentional living path as well.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Marie Levey-Pabst is a parent educator and founder of Create Balance. She uses the very practical Create Balance Method to teach parents how to create balance between family, work, and personal fulfillment. Read more at the Create Balance Blog, and join the Create Balance Community to get lots of inspiration, tools and support to help create balance in your life. Connect with Marie on Facebook @systemsforbalance and Twitter @MarieLPBalance. Photography by Markie Jones Additional reporting and editing by Casee Marie
Connect with Lee Lee @wordsbyleelee @boyswholovepink
@TPYladyboss
The EASE ISSU E
|
71
– L EE L EE MCKN I G H T
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
to align your innermost thoughts with your ever-evolving perspective
A RT W O RK by @ A RA BE S QU E.A RT.DES IGN
A selection of Illustrations from April 2016 to July 2018
I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y @ A S H L E Y B U N T E N D E S I G N
Orchid Orchid is a symbol of the exotic beauty. It symbolizes refinement, thoughtfulness and mature charm. It also symbolizes proud and glorious femininity.
The EASE ISSU E
|
75
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
LIVE
Inner Validation S T O P L I S T E N I N G , S TA R T B E L I E V I N G with
Meghan Kacmarcik
Ignore the magazines; let go of the false expectations and sneaky criticism. You don’t need to be any better or skinnier or healthier or stronger or more aware. You’re worthy, in this moment and every moment.
F
rom the time I was about nine years old all the way until
Fortunately, these magazines are being called out more and
my late teens, I was an avid consumer of all women’s
more both in the body positive movement and in women’s
magazines. It started with Girl’s Life and eventually
movements in general. We are finally starting to realize that
transformed into Us Weekly, People and Self. I absorbed the
we are here for more than just men’s pleasure and we can
“advice” given in each issue and made a mental note of all the
actually do *gasp* whatever we want.
ways I should improve my body and myself.
Still, there’s a more damaging issue that’s flown under the
A short list of things I learned: boys like girls with long hair.
radar: instead of media outlets telling us to change, they’ve
Women shouldn’t wear horizontal stripes. A two-piece bathing
begun explaining how we can be a better version of ourselves.
suit with a high waist was best for my body type. All women
On the surface, this sounds great—We don’t need to change
need to perfect the art of the smoky eye. An apple will wake
– we just need to be better!—but these expectations and the
you up more than a cup of coffee (still waiting for that to make
accompanying advice can be just as toxic because they
any sense to me at all). I could go on and on.
suppress the tiny voice of authenticity that rings within you at
I devoured this information. I stored it away for a time when I
all times.
would be become the perfect example of everything a woman
There are examples everywhere of the world trying to tell you
should be. The type of women men liked, the type of women
to be just a little bit different, a little bit better. Articles that
that were photographed and always looked the way society
tell us how to take charge but also not be “bossy.” Blog posts
deemed as “perfect.” I am certain that I am not the only woman who has ever fallen prey to this “guidance.” continued on next page
The EASE ISSU E
|
77
that tell us how to speak up and go against the grain but not too
It took years to break out of that box, but I did. To remember
against the grain. Magazines that tell us how to make simple
who I was and learn who I wanted to be, I replaced media with
changes to improve ourselves in small ways.
self-help books, feminist essays, and therapy. I gained weight
The impulse to be your best self is not wrong. We can uncover things deep within us that make us more curious, more educated, and more content. To be constantly striving for some
and I feel more beautiful than I ever imagined I could. I laugh loudly, just like my mother, without apologizing. I wear whatever I want – even if it isn’t “flattering.” I like myself.
state of perfection based on expectations that other people set
Our truest self knows she is worthy without constantly striving
for you, though, is an unrealistic avenue to lasting change. Also,
for perfection. Our most authentic voice knows we can better
it’s exhausting at best and soul-crushing at worst.
ourselves without beating ourselves up. Our inner light holds
I lost weight and became the size 2 that every woman, so I was told, strived to be. I got to the place that I could “wear whatever
steadfast in the belief that we are enough, even when we don’t always feel it.
I wanted and look great!” or at least that’s what they told me.
Who would you be if you hadn’t been clouded by all the
Inside, I was deeply unhealthy. Trapped in the box my eating
messages from society telling you who you should be and how
disorder kept me in, I never felt beautiful regardless of what I
you should act? That’s a hard question for anyone to reflect
was wearing. I also didn’t feel demure or obedient. I felt trapped.
upon, but with deep introspection and a willingness to unlearn,
Here’s the thing that magazines won’t tell you: you do not need
it can be explored and—likely—answered.
to change anything to be enough or to be worthy. You are so unbelievably worthy. Your lack of adherence to arbitrary advice given in women’s magazines and social media will not and cannot change that.
Meghan is a blogger, body positivity advocate, eating disorder survivor and Registered Dietitian. You can follow along on her adventures on Instagram @sundaesforthesoul or read her blog at sundaesforthesoul.com. Photos by Jacqui DePas
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
P H O T O by @ N I C O L A H A R G E R L E T T E R I N G by @ L E T T E R L A N E D E S I G N S T U D I O
The EASE I SSU E
|
79
LIVE
Dare to Be YOU R E P L A C I N G C O M PA R I S O N W I T H V I S I O N , C O N N E C T I O N , A N D I N S P I R AT I O N with T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Katie Rose Lynch
LIVE
When we embrace connection, we invite ease into our life and our business. Collaboration allows us the opportunity to learn from others, form friendships, strengthen our community, and most importantly feel less alone.
I
have a confession to make. When I considered what it would be like to be my own boss, I often got swept away into daydreams of luxurious days working from
home, filled with yoga, long walks, meditation, and naps. (Anyone else see what was missing there? Oh yeah, the working part!) During this time, I devoured every book, podcast, article, blog post and social media account curated by powerful and exciting female entrepreneurs I could get my hands on. Each one of them seemed to have the “ideal” life. Making money doing things they loved, running family and homes flawlessly and effortlessly, and looking fabulous doing it. I fully saturated into their world. I wanted to be these women and do all the things they were doing. I was so inspired and so motivated, I decided nothing was going to get in my way of becoming my own boss. Except me. Though this consumption of lady-bossness (yes that IS a word) was amazing in so many ways, it became one of the primary ways I struggled in my journey as an entrepreneur. Spending all this time paying attention to how other people were running their businesses resulted in me becoming less and less clear about my own vision. The more I consumed the worse I felt. I was caught in the “comparison trap.” Whether you are an entrepreneur or not, my guess is you have at one time or another fallen victim to the comparison trap. Ever found yourself drowning in envy of all the shiny beautiful things, homes, and meals on Pinterest? Comparison trap. Ever felt super inadequate about yourself, your looks, your family, your relationship
continued on next page
The EASE ISSU E
|
81
or your life after ending up in a Facebook scrolling rabbit hole?
I spent an incredible amount of time cruising other therapists
Comparison trap.
websites and comparing my private practice to theirs. Not
At one time or another, we all find ourselves caught in this trap. Also, we each have the ability to turn these experiences into powerful connections that will benefit our lives and our businesses.
only did this lead to a lot of negative self-talk, I also gave away so much time to this activity: time I could have spent on my own business. Once I recognized this, I made the choice to focus on my own work, which resulted in a heck of a lot more productivity AND creativity.
RECONNECT TO YOUR VISION
C U R AT E A N E W C O N N E C T I O N
Comparing ourselves to others, quite frankly, feels awful and
Behind every perfectly curated Instagram feed is a pile of
can even lead us to losing focus and motivation in our own lives. We don’t feel very good about ourselves when we are thinking about everything someone else has that we don’t have. When we do this, we are giving our precious resources away, including time and energy. What would it be like to reallocate some of this time to your own work? What could you accomplish with this time and energy? When you begin to compare yourself to someone you admire, answer with the reminder to “keep your eyes on your own paper.” When you catch yourself giving away the resource of your time to someone else, slow down and turn your energy inward. Focus on a task of your own, whether big or small.
unwashed laundry, stained clothes, late bills, arguments with partners, and lots of self-doubt. We all know the truth: the online world is completely curated. People don’t often make a habit out of filling their Facebook or Instagram feed with the less sexy parts of their life, yet we all have some very unsexy things going on behind the scenes. I find this very comforting. Next time you feel envious of another woman online, take a moment to think about what you may have in common. Are you both mothers or business owners? Can you imagine what types of daily struggles or frustrations you both have? Take it one step further and send her a message or leave her a comment or question about something you can both connect on. You never know where this small connection may lead.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Since opening my private practice, I have made it a point
This was incredibly helpful for me when I was going through
to reach out and offer to have coffee dates with as many
my own website redesign process. I paid close attention to
therapists in private practice in my area as possible. At first, I
how other people’s websites made me feel when I visited them
was so intimidated by these women because of assumptions
so that, when working on designing my own site, I had a much
I had made, based on their online presence. To my surprise, I
clearer understanding of how I wanted the visitors to my site to
learned that—in real life—we have the same worries, fears, and
feel and what design I needed in order to create this experience.
entrepreneurial ups and downs.
I G N I T E Y O U R I N S P I R AT I O N Speaking of the online world, can we talk about website envy? If
There are so many amazing women, doing amazing things (you
you are a business owner, entrepreneur, lady boss, or creative,
are one of them!). Having each other to rely on for support,
chances are you either have or are planning to have a website.
knowledge, and experience is so valuable. Instead of coming
Have you ever found yourself drooling over that perfect website:
from a place of comparison, what if we made the conscious
the one with the perfect design, colors, fonts, and copy? All this
decision to come from a place of connection? What would be
beauty can be heartwarming, but also has the potential to lead
possible then?
to serious bouts of envy and doubt. You can allow the beauty of someone else’s website to paralyze you, or you can choose to be inspired. Pay attention to what stands out. What colors inspire you? What feelings does the site evoke in you? What do you notice about the vibe? Paying attention to the things that draw you in allows for greater
Katie Lynch, LICSW is a psychotherapist dedicated to helping women and couples live more mindfully and love more purposefully. You can connect with her at presentheartcounseling.com. Photos by Lindsay Stanford
understanding of yourself, which you can turn into inspiration to influence your own brand.
The EASE ISSU E
|
83
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
adventurous Self U N L E A S H YO U R
Words by Christi Daniels
Photography by Jayna Cowal
The EASE ISSU E
|
85
LIVE
Syncing up with your inner wisdom, refueling your energy reserves, and tapping into the creative force within will put you in touch with the feminine, receptive aspect of yourself. In this relaxed state, you can zoom out of our daily life and look with a different perspective. See the patterns; follow the clues; realize a wealth of new ideas, inspiration, and adventures.
O
urs is a hyper-connected, technologically-driven culture, inside which information flows rapidly hurling new possibilities, expectations, and opinions at us.
Our tiny supercomputers lead us to believe the world is ours to command when, in actuality, we’re simply becoming more practiced at reacting to what’s flowing down stream.
PA U S E F O R F R E E D O M . No matter that living life with constant connectivity and stimulation is unsustainable; the frantic pace is near difficult to escape. We’ve become so focused on what needs to be accomplished, what’s happening around us, and what we should respond to or ignore that finding the energy to lift ourselves
We've acclimated ourselves to a new level of “normal” as we
out of the swiftly moving digital current and up onto the shore
check email from our bedroom pillows, return text messages
for a few moments of peace and rest is the furthest thing from
from the bathroom, and listen to podcasts on long walks. Our
our mind.
beautiful moments are paused for a selfie and our meals are documented and shared. The rhythm of life has become so crowded, there are no spaces in between the notes. No time to rest, to stand back, to listen, to reflect.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
We need breaks, times of rest when we can bring balance back to life. When was the last time you took an extended break from technology, work, or your life in general?
Once you step beyond the edge of what is known, the edge expands.
Reclaiming times of rest and rejuvenation allows us to make good decisions and be present with those we love. If we pay attention to the signals that our body sends us, we can better navigate the choices of life; stay focused on the tasks that are important; and cultivate connection, creativity, joy and ease. By taking the time and space to be free, whether a 15-minute coffee break or a week long vacation, we become alive to our surroundings, our senses, our dreams. During periods of rest, hearing the voice of our soul—the whisper of ideas, inspiration, and curiosity—gets easier.
morning and jump off each night. In rare moments of downtime, I would journal, read, and dream of one day living a life that was aligned with my desire to make big things happen. Rather than acting the part for a particular audience, I was eager to provide value to the lives of others.
PAY AT T E N T I O N TO THE CRISIS.
Looking back, I see that I was afraid to stop because I wasn't sure I'd like coming
As a young mom, I neglected my inner voice
until I was jolted back to life by divorce did I evaluate the rubble of my life.
face-to-face with where I had landed in life. Rather than resting, I kept pushing. I was even on the phone with my colleagues while in labor at the hospital! Not
in favor of tuning in to the harsh spin-cycle demands of a corporate environment. I
Once I finally stopped to pause, those soulful whispers I'd been pushing aside
juggled young children and wishful “Martha
had my full attention. I discovered the evidence and the awareness that I was
Stewart” attempts at home life; balanced
not the worthless human being reflected back to me in the eyes of my former
college courses with a failing marriage; and
partner. I learned of my capability to be more than I had allowed myself. I
managed operations of a 24/7 helpdesk with
cultivated the courage to go on the adventure of becoming my own ally and
the world's largest retailer breathing down
building a different life for myself and my children.
my neck. Between self-imposed expectations and the external demands for my focus, it was all I
continued on next page
could do to jump on the hamster wheel each
The EASE I SSU E
|
87
Will you wait for the crisis to be thrust upon
experienced moments. Moments in which
you before taking a break?
you did something different, made a new
How far will you push yourself before seizing the opportunity to get away from your normal, unfulfilling life?
choice, opened up to a new possibility. Divulged your sense of adventure. Experimented. Once you step beyond the edge of what
FIND THE MAGIC. Do me a favor: search the landscape of your memory for a moment of your life that glows brighter than the others. A stunning sunrise shared with your lover. The late spring evening you created an outdoor dining experience that went into the wee hours of the morning. The freedom and weightlessness as you bounced on a trampoline or jumped off of the bungee cord platform. The intense connection of pulling your newborn up and out of you and into the world to greet you face to face for the first time.
is known, the edge expands. Your next chance for a new magical moment is once again outside of what you’ve known and experienced. If we can learn to cherish these moments as they're happening, we cultivate a propensity for regularly traversing into new territory. Life is a collection of small moments, both magical and mundane. Regular periods of rest provide the opportunity to recognize the magical moments while you are experiencing them. Slow down. Choose a time to unplug and disconnect from expectations—your own and those of the people who surround you. While
Moments of wonder vary from person to
recharging, be receptive to taking that step
person, but they are all new, never before
into your next adventure.
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
By taking the time and space to be free, we become alive to our surroundings, our senses, our dreams.
The EASE ISSU E
|
89
U N L E A S H Y O U R A D V E N T U R O U S S E L F. If a part of you is nodding in agreement, but you're also lining
I finally awarded myself a position of equal importance. I decided I had to give into my own dreams and desires.
up the reasons why you simply can't take a break or get more
Had I been single and without children, I would have had a
breathing space, you’re listening to the part of you who delivers
backpacking adventure like Cheryl Strayed in Wild; however,
on promises—the self behind everything you've accomplished.
with three kids, a full-time job, and financial commitments,
The one who says no to the 3rd margarita and keeps a close eye
my solution for taking a break from the excruciating weight of
on her children when they get near the deep end.
responsibilities was to move our family into a tent in the woods
Love this part of yourself; if it weren't for her you wouldn't have
for a summer adventure.
ambition or a wealth of resources at the ready. You couldn’t take
When we moved out of our suburban home and into the tent, it
a weekend away because you wouldn't have earned that reward.
was the happiest summer of my life. Rather than focus on the
For too many years of my life, I put the needs of others in front of my own. After a particularly rough period of being a single parent with my own expectations hanging heavily as obstacles,
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
reasons why my kids and I couldn't unplug from society and get back to nature, I focused instead on how I could make it happen. How could I telecommute from a tent? How could we have a safe
Date Your Inner Wisdom When bombarded by the thoughts, opinions, and priorities of others day in and day out, the spaces formerly reserved for our private thoughts are no longer sacred. Get back in touch with your inner wisdom by going on a date with yourself!
1
Plan. Just as you would with a friend or partner, chose a date and schedule it on your calendar. Contemplative locations outside of your normal routine—a park bench, a large rock beside a creek, a city fountain, or even inside your car—will allow for true searching.
2
Unplug. Digital devices just don't have a place where inner wisdom is concerned. Turn on the Do Not Disturb function or put it on ͞airplane mode. For added security measures, make sure your location does not have access to wi-fi.
3
Seek. What sounds do you notice? What flowers do you see? What scents can you detect? What do you notice in your body? Get comfortable with all five senses, and your inner wisdom will gladly show up.
4
Listen. Once you've tuned into your surroundings, it's time to listen to what your inner wisdom is saying. You already know the questions. Now wait for the answers. They are inside of you, whenever you're ready to learn them.
space for the kids to play? How were we going to handle not having a bathroom? How were we going to prepare food? That was the first summer I included my own needs when prioritizing my life. Giving myself the chance to disconnect from all of the external voices and tune into my inner voice helped me to develop trust in my inner wisdom. I gained confidence in following my soul’s calling, regardless of external obstacles. This experience created so many new possibilities for my family; even over a decade later, it continues to inspire me to have the courage to do what appears to be impossible.
5
Journal. The act of writing something down means not just that you're committing it to memory but that you're going to follow through on the experience. Use a notepad & pen, or send yourself an email. The format doesn't matter as much as the wisdom you have gained (and want to keep!).
continued on next page
The EASE ISSU E
|
91
E X P E R I E N C E L I F E A N E W. My middle son, who was seven at the time of our tent summer, has grown up to integrate adventure naturally into his life. At 21, he's already had an urban adventure longboarding and camping along the Pacific coast; gone on extended trips to Virginia, Washington and Oregon; and walked across the state of Arkansas solo, camping along the way. Recently, he called me using Facetime to say “Hi,” and asked me to guess where he was. He flipped the view so that I could see he
outside of the hyper-connected, busyness of the digital stream. Your adventure might be as simple as taking a left where you normally take a right, striking up a conversation with someone you don't know, deciding to say “yes” to something you've resisted for yourself or to say “no” to something that no longer resonates. Adventure looks different for each of us and discovery will happen in our own ways. Give yourself the space to rest, the time to listen deeply, and the permission to follow your curiosity. Act bravely, and you'll soon be staring down the next great adventure of your life.
was standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon. He's spiritually grounded, has a compassionate heart, and takes my breath away each time I see him do his next big thing. He is my proof that including my need for rest among the litany of priorities was a good decision. Life can be whatever we choose. The adventurous life is calling: original, unexpected, ever expanding. That call is best heard when we inhabit space
T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
Christi Daniels is a Self-fulfillment Mentor and fierce ally for women who've lost touch with themselves, their dreams, and their desires. Through her Self-Full Living™ program, they learn to navigate the complexities of modern life with more joy and less stress by rooting themselves in honest self-awareness, deep self-trust, and exquisite self-care. Photography by Jayna Cowal.
LIVE
P O E T RY BY
Kate Kearns
A Body is a Map of Abundance Life lived wholly leaves a mark, stretches silver streaks into the skin. A belly, loose and light, remembers the wiggling warmth. The pen’s insistent pressing forms a comfortable dent – a repeated touch, a callous – forward motion, a scar. The lost lay white and gleaming in our hair, covered, perhaps, but never gone. Life leaves evidence. Sunshine notes its presence on the flesh.
The EASE I SSU E
|
93
@ANNMARIEDRURY_ARTIST
@AUTHORCBENJAMIN
@BOMBAS
@BYJACQUIPHOTO
@THEPERPETUALYOU
@LINDSAY_STANFORD
@SUNDAESFORTHESOUL
@VANESSA.STUDIO
@WORDSBYLEELEE
T PY T O P N I N E
Since our very first Instagram post, in the summer of 2015, we've been spreading positive vibes and an authentic message to our followers. Regardless of how "popular" a post is, we know that at least one person needs to see that picture or read that message on that day. Appropriately, our Top 9 photos over the past three years showcase our deep commitment to sharing images that are REAL and promoting accounts or products that are consciously improving our world. T h e PE R PE T UAL YOU
MY MA N T RA
M A N T R A b y K R Y S TA L B R A N D T P H O T O by @ A M A N D A L U I S A A R T L E T T E R I N G by @ C A L L I G R A P H E T T E C O
P H O T O by @ L I F E U N S T I L L , L E T T E R I N G by @ G L I T T E R A N D B O L D