Dear Reader,

“Moving out of London to Milton Keynes — that’s a big change.”

I’ve heard this so many times over the past few weeks. And yet, what’s funny is… it doesn’t feel that big at all.

Change rarely feels overwhelming when you’re ready and when every part of you knows it’s right.

As I’ve been wandering around Milton Keynes, my soul just keeps whispering, “We’re in the right place.”

There’s a sense of rest here, a feeling of being at home that’s hard to put into words.

This week the temperatures in England suddenly dropped.

The heavier sweaters have come out, the extra layers have appeared, and the shorter days can bring in that familiar winter gloom. As we settle into the depth of winter — and as I continue recovering from the burnout that hit me hard at the end of September — I wanted to share a few practices that are really supporting my self-connection right now.

These are simple, gentle, grounding. Maybe one of them will speak to you too.

Making time for hobbies that bring joy

I love singing, and lately I’ve been intentionally carving out more space for it. Last week, I shared about the one-night-only choir I went to. It was incredible! (If you missed it, you can read it here.)

I sing at home all the time, but doing something you love with others hits differently. I’m now on the lookout for a choir to join in Milton Keynes in the new year.

Deep cleaning and decluttering

Cleaning is genuinely therapeutic for me. When my mind starts spiralling, cleaning slows me down and grounds me. It gives me a sense of accomplishment while also shifting the energy of the home.

Clean house = clean mind.

Daily poem writing to a new word

Every morning I get a new word in my inbox, and I write a poem inspired by it. It’s such a nourishing practice — I’m learning new words, expanding my vocabulary, and feeding my love for creative writing and poetry.

Doing something your younger self loved

I recently rediscovered Crash Bandicoot on PlayStation and it instantly transported me back to my childhood. Sometimes I feel guilty for playing, but then I remind myself: my younger self deserves moments of joy, too.

What did you love when you were young? Reconnecting with an old game or hobby can feel like spending quality time with your inner child.

Essential oil salt baths

I’ve always been more of a sauna-and-shower girl, but now that I have a bath, I am fully converted. Essential oil salts, candles, a good book… pure indulgence. A small ritual with a big impact.

Bake something

Yesterday I baked my mum’s blueberry pie, and it reminded me how grounding baking can be. It asks for your full attention — the measuring, mixing, waiting — which makes it such a naturally mindful activity. And then there’s the smell… instantly transporting me back home. The best part is sharing it afterward. Freshly baked goods on winter days feel like a warm hug for your tummy.

Going on adventures in the area

Being new to Milton Keynes makes every walk feel like a small adventure. Even if you’ve lived in your area for a while, there’s always something new waiting to be discovered. How could you take yourself on a mini adventure this week? Maybe it’s trying a restaurant you’ve walked past a hundred times, or finally taking that left turn you’ve always been curious about.

Let yourself explore. Let yourself be surprised.

Wherever you are and whatever season you’re in, winter, transition, recovery, or renewal, I hope you make space for what nourishes you.

You deserve to feel grounded, supported, and connected to yourself.

And if you try any of these practices, I’d love to hear how they land for you.

Sending you so much love and light.

Heartfully,
Essi