Kimberly Wilson's Blog, page 45
December 1, 2019
Happy December
Happy December and greetings from Oklahoma. We flew out here on Thanksgiving and have been watching movies, warming fireside, wandering through the Wichita Mountains, and reading the past few days. Such a treat! For those of you stateside (or who celebrated elsewhere), I hope you’ve had an enjoyable weekend, too.
I’ve heard from a few of you that last week’s questions were timely, so I wanted to share a few more that may be of use as the holidays kick into gear. It IS a magical time and, yet, it can also be triggering so I encourage deep self-care and reflection right now.
You know the drill. Movement, water, sleep, AM and PM rituals, write, down time, and say “no” so you can say “yes” to something that matters more. To get into the self-care spirit, let’s start by penning those December dreams.
Grab your Daybook, Year of Tranquility or journal. Contemplate this final month of 2019. How do you want to show up? What do you want to experience? How many yoga classes (or your preferred movement practice) do you want to attend? Are there any pending new year’s dreams that need attention? How do you want to start and end your day? Who do you want to spend time with? How do you want to feel? What do you want to create? What can you let go of? What do you want your holidays to look like?
These questions may get you started! In the interim, save 12/29 for our Planning 2020 TDJ Style. Invites going out shortly to all who filled out the Daybook and/or Year of Tranquility bonuses page.
Here’s to a joyful, slow, mindful conclusion to 2019! You’re a gift x
The post Happy December appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
November 27, 2019
A Compassionate Thanksgiving
Want to consider your health, the planet, and the animals as you create your festive Thanksgiving experience? Me, too!
Here are some tips:
✨ Forgo plastic and use your family’s heirloom silver
✨ Bring the outside world in with a nature-filled tablescape (pine cones, boughs, berries, fallen leaves, pumpkins painted silver, moss, greenery, flowers)
✨ Skip meat or make it a small side dish versus the main course
✨ Say goodbye to paper plates and napkins and instead pull out the china and cloth napkins
✨ Illuminate with candles
✨ Visit the farmers’ market and shop local
✨ Make your hostess or guest gifts (bath salts, cookies, candles) or buy from local artisans
✨ Create lots of healthy and plant-filled dishes.
More and more people are curious about vegetarianism and veganism (see today’s piece in USA Today) as a way to heal our planet, stop factory farming, and get more nutrients in their diet. I’ve been veg for 20 years, am obsessed with animals, and, as you know, pigs and pugs have my heart (hello Pigs & Pugs Project).
I love what this lifestyle has done for me and my health. And I also know that the holidays can be a challenging time to eat healthfully. I mean, I’m also obsessed with pumpkin pie!
So I created a Facebook group, TDJ Eat Plants, where I share veg-friendly recipes and inspiration. Don’t worry, it’s not preachy, think gentle nourishment for the belly and soul. If you need some extra healthful support this week, I hope you’ll join us! x
The post A Compassionate Thanksgiving appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
November 26, 2019
Dealing with Those Questions
You know the ones, they leave you feeling uncomfortable, possibly even violated. I get it, after years of dodging, “When are you getting married?” (I’m not!) or “When are you having kids?” (also not!), they’re annoying and sometimes triggering.
To help, I’ve pulled together 11 common questions, what may be meant by them, a better way to ask it, and tips on how to respond. May they help you navigate those awkward moments around the Thanksgiving table.
1. “What did you do to your hair?”
A family member may be trying to imply that your new look is unbecoming or they may love it and wonder what was done so that they can get the same technique or color. If it’s because you don’t like it, forgo asking. If it’s because you love it, another way to ask would be, “I love your hair! What did you do differently?” For a response, try, “I cut it off and/or went platinum. Loving it!” and move on.
2. “Have you been to the gym lately?”
A family member may be trying to imply that you’re looking heavier and this is their indirect way to ask it. The family member may also wonder if you’re still doing the regular workout routine you shared at the last holiday. If it’s weight related, best to skip the question. If it’s exercise routine related, another way to ask would be, “How are you enjoying your workouts at the gym?” For a response, try simply “yes” or “no” without reading more into their question or feeling a need to elaborate.
3. “When are you getting married?”
A family member may be trying to imply that you’re too old to still be single or that you and your partner should settle down. Unless there’s a public engagement, best to skip this question. For a response, try, “Nope and happy to be on my own (or partnered without papers) right now.”
4. “When are you going to settle down?”
A family member may be trying to imply that you’ve been single too long or that your alternative lifestyle (living in your van, working remotely while traveling, moving cities often) isn’t traditional enough. Another way to ask this is, “You travel a lot, do you ever long for roots?” For a response, try “I love the freedom that comes with my lifestyle, thanks for asking!”
5. “Are you sure that’s a good idea?”
A family member may be trying to imply that your decision to quit your job, travel the world, freeze your eggs, call off the wedding, etc. is not a good idea. Another way to ask is, “I’m sure you’ve thought about this, but what about health insurance, the side effects, your mortgage, etc.” For a response, try “Thanks for your concern, I’ve though this through and know I’m on the right path.”
6. “You’re going back for seconds?”
A family member may be trying to imply that you’re overweight and seconds aren’t a good idea. Unless they’re asking because they want to join you or they’re your diet accountability buddy, best to skip this question. For a response, try a nod and smile or ignore the question altogether. When you return with another slice of pumpkin pie, they’ll get their answer.
7. “You’re changing jobs again?”
A family member may be trying to imply that you’re career isn’t stable or that you’re never satisfied. Another way to ask is, “You’re moving on to a new company? Tell me more about it.” For a response, try, “Yes, and I’m excited about the opportunity.”
8. “You’re still together?”
A family member may be trying to imply that they don’t approve of your partner or they’re surprised you still have a partner. Best to skip this one unless you have something positive to say or you know the person well and have concerns for their well-being by staying in the relationship. For a response, try a simple “yes,” “no,” or “it’s complicated.”
9. “You’re voting for who?”
A family member may be trying to imply that they don’t like your politics. Another way to ask is, “Tell me more about your leaning toward X candidate.” For a response, share what you appreciate about the politician without getting in the weeds. It’s often best to skip politics, religion, and financial discussions around the table.
10. “Why wouldn’t you eat X?”
A family member may be trying to imply that they don’t understand why you wouldn’t eat meat/gluten/sugar, etc. Another way to ask is, “What led to your decision to cut out meat/gluten/sugar and what have you noticed?” For a response, try, “I’ve found it feels best for my body.” If you want to elaborate, educate the family member on the horrors of factory farming, why cutting out gluten has helped, and/or how sugar is more addictive than cocaine.
11. “When are you going to have a baby?”
A family member may be trying to imply that they want a grandchild or assume it’s the next step in your life because it was in theirs. Another way to ask is, well, just don’t. For a response, try, “I’m not” or “To be determined.”
Whew, of course, this list is non-exhaustive, but hopefully a useful start! If you find yourself triggered or overstimulated during the holidays, mindfulness may help!
Consider these go-tos:
Name what you’re feeling to help calm the amygdala—responsible for emotional responses. Reflect on what the question is bringing up for you. Avoid assuming the worst. Stay present by connecting to your breath and body. Surrender expectations and go with the flow. Yep, even with those darn travel delays and weird comments by Aunt Betty. Stick to your routines as much as possible. Breathe, walk, and stretch to move your body and your energy. Skip those hot topics. Hello, politics!
Let’s navigate this magical (and stressful) time of the year with grace and kindness—especially toward ourselves. You’ve got this! Bisous. x
The post Dealing with Those Questions appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
November 25, 2019
Tranquility du Jour #471: Loving Through Your Differences
In this week’s edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Jim Creighton about his new book Loving Through Your Differences. Learn about emotional reality, how we can use our differences as our teachers, and how to reframe.
Direct download: Tranquility du Jour #471: Loving Through Our Differences.
Upcoming Events
New Year’s Eve Mini Retreat at YogaWorks Dupont: December 31 in DC
New Year’s Salon: January 1, 2020 in DC [6 spots left]
NEW: Tranquility in the Tropics: February 13-20, 2021
NEW Tranquility in Tuscany retreat: August 28-September 4, 2021
Featured Guest
James L. Creighton, PhD, is the author of 
Loving Through Your Difference and several other books. He has worked with couples and conducted communications training for nearly 50 years around the world. Visit him online at http://www.jameslcreighton.com.
Savvy Sources
Find Jim
Let’s Connect
Takeaways? Please share using #tdjpodcast, post it and tag me, @tranquilitydujour.
Share a review on iTunes or Amazon and you may hear it shared on the show.
Download the Tranquility du Jour Podcast App: iPhone and Android
Visit kw.com/podcastfor more episodes and the app.
Subscribe in your favorite podcast app such as Apple Podcast or Overcast.
New to Tranquility du Jour? Learn more here.
Sign up for Love Notes (exclusive content, personal updates, giveaways) and access Tranquil Treasures.
Browse my 6 Books
Eye candy on Instagram
Follow along on Facebook
Watch YouTube {Tea with Kimberly video series}
Shop seasonless, vegan, locally-made, eco-friendly fashion: TranquiliT
Techy
To listen, click on the player at the top of the post or click here to listen to older episodes.
New to podcasting? Get more info at Podcast 411.
Do you have iTunes? Click here and subscribe to the podcast to get the latest episode as released.
Get the Tranquility du Jour apps to download the podcast “automagically” on iOS or Android
The post Tranquility du Jour #471: Loving Through Your Differences appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
Tranquility du Jour #471: Loving Through Our Differences
In this week’s edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Jim Creighton about his new book Loving Through Our Differences. Learn about emotional reality, how we can use our differences as our teachers, and how to reframe.
Direct download: Tranquility du Jour #471: Loving Through Our Differences.
Upcoming Events
New Year’s Eve Mini Retreat at YogaWorks Dupont: December 31 in DC
New Year’s Salon: January 1, 2020 in DC [6 spots left]
NEW: Tranquility in the Tropics: February 13-20, 2021
NEW Tranquility in Tuscany retreat: August 28-September 4, 2021
Featured Guest
James L. Creighton, PhD, is the author of Loving Through Our Difference and several other books. He has worked with couples and conducted communications training for nearly 50 years around the world. Visit him online at http://www.jameslcreighton.com.
Savvy Sources
Find Jim
Let’s Connect
Takeaways? Please share using #tdjpodcast, post it and tag me, @tranquilitydujour.
Share a review on iTunes or Amazon and you may hear it shared on the show.
Download the Tranquility du Jour Podcast App: iPhone and Android
Visit kw.com/podcastfor more episodes and the app.
Subscribe in your favorite podcast app such as Apple Podcast or Overcast.
New to Tranquility du Jour? Learn more here.
Sign up for Love Notes (exclusive content, personal updates, giveaways) and access Tranquil Treasures.
Browse my 6 Books
Eye candy on Instagram
Follow along on Facebook
Watch YouTube {Tea with Kimberly video series}
Shop seasonless, vegan, locally-made, eco-friendly fashion: TranquiliT
Techy
To listen, click on the player at the top of the post or click here to listen to older episodes.
New to podcasting? Get more info at Podcast 411.
Do you have iTunes? Click here and subscribe to the podcast to get the latest episode as released.
Get the Tranquility du Jour apps to download the podcast “automagically” on iOS or Android
The post Tranquility du Jour #471: Loving Through Our Differences appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
November 23, 2019
How to Eat More Plants
Eat food, not too much, mostly plants. —Michael Pollan
We’re rounding the corner into the holidays followed by new year’s intention setting. This often comes with eating too much pumpkin pie (guilty as charged) and a resolution to do better in the new year.
To help with this dilemma, I wanted to share a few easy peasy tips that may help you bid adieu to eating animals and hello to eating more plants.
While you don’t need a massive overhaul (unless, of course, that’s your thing), consider these ideas on doing better for your health, the environment, and the animals. They’ll all thank you!
1. Replace cow’s milk with one of the many non-dairy options. I’m all about soy and oat milk these days.
2. Drink your fruits and veggies. I LOVE me some morning smoothies and get a huge pack of protein first thing. Here’s a how-to video I made to show how easy it is.
3. Join the TDJ Eat Plants Facebook group. I share recipes and love there weekly.
4. Tote nuts, baby carrots, crunchy chickpeas or beans (fave brand is Bada Bean Bada Boom) and fresh (or dried) fruit for snacking on-the-go.
5. When baking, use tofu or applesauce as an egg substitute.
6. Look for plant-based alternatives to your favorites like pizza, burgers, ice cream, and more. Even Burger King offers the Impossible Whopper and it’s quite tasty plus packed with 25 grams of protein!
7. Try nut cheeses and make you’re own with these recipes. Treeline’s cracked pepper cheese is my weakness.
8. At large gatherings (ahem, Thanksgiving), savor all the yummy veggie sides. Each year Tim and I nosh on all the sides complete with crescent rolls, cranberry sauce from a can (the best!), and pie. Lots of pie.
9. Create a colorful plate. Greens, reds, purples, whites, yellows, browns—all so pretty and filled with nutrients.
10. Keep the tough stuff out of the kitchen. For me, that’s sugar. Recently I had to throw away a half-eaten bag of vegan marshmallows to stop myself from popping them a few at a time. For you, it may be chips or pretzels. If it’s not around, we’re less likely to reach for it when hangry or stressed.
While this is a non-exhaustive list, I hope it’s a helpful one. Which one(s) most resonate with you? Bisous. x
The post How to Eat More Plants appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
November 20, 2019
Self-Care
There is a connection between self-nurturing and self-respect. —Julia Cameron
Self-care has gotten me through many challenging situations. From leaving a soul-sucking corporate job in my mid-20’s, to starting and growing a yoga studio, to writing six books, to selling Tranquil Space yoga studios to YogaWorks and starting a new chapter of life.
My basic routines have kept me [mostly] sane through it all. My secret? Lots of rest under a weighted blanket, yoga and ballet, green smoothies, reflection, creative practices, soaks in the tub, retreating, therapy, mindfulness, no meat, and cuddles with my pups and partner . . . to name a few.
Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and champagne (although those are fun, too)! It’s about saying no, setting boundaries, carving out space, having tough conversations, and doing the things needed to create the kind of life we want.
The good news is you don’t have to do it all at once. Small, daily steps add up much more quickly than you think! How about having a green juice, sitting with your breath for five minutes, taking a stretch break, saying “no” so you can say “yes” to what matters, and/or penning your dreams.
What small step can you take today? You are beautiful and you deserve it! Bisous. x
The post Self-Care appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
November 17, 2019
Pardon the Dust
Dearest,
I’m delighted to share Tranquility du Jour‘s new look at kimberlywilson.com.
Please note we’ve still got many tweaks to iron out the website update, so thank you for your patience. As my designer, Hans, said, it will continue to look more and more beautiful as it comes to life.
My favorite part? This black pug in a pink bow tie. He said it was an homage to sweet Louis (who Hans remembers fondly from a black tie event we attended together where Louis relieved himself on the hotel carpet). God bless.
Also, here’s a video that shares insights into the world of Tranquility du Jour. I hope you enjoy it!
May we live life tuned in to what matters most and create moments of tranquility. Thank you for being here. I’m so, so grateful and think you’re amazing. Bisous. x
The post Pardon the Dust appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
Pardon the dust
Dearest,
I’m delighted to share Tranquility du Jour‘s new look at kimberlywilson.com.
Please note we’ve still got many tweaks to iron out the website update, so thank you for your patience. As my designer, Hans, said, it will continue to look more and more beautiful as it comes to life.
My favorite part? This black pug in a pink bow tie. He said it was an homage to sweet Louis (who Hans remembers fondly from a black tie event we attended together where Louis relieved himself on the hotel carpet). God bless.
Also, here’s a video that shares insights into the world of Tranquility du Jour. I hope you enjoy it!
May we live life tuned in to what matters most and create moments of tranquility. Thank you for being here. I’m so, so grateful and think you’re amazing. Bisous. x
The post Pardon the dust appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
November 12, 2019
6 Ways to Shift Your Energy
Yesterday my over-the-knee boot got caught in my bike fender (don’t ask, it wasn’t easy to do), I forked my watermelon radish slice so hard it flew across the table, I had avocado toast crumbs on my face during a doctor’s appointment (nope, no one said a thing).
And that’s just the start of it.
At one point in the day I texted my partner, Tim, “Am I on ‘Candid Camera’?!” Remember that show?
When I have days like this (which is more often than I’d like to admit), I find it helpful to do something to try to shift my energy asap and these are my go-tos:
1. Move — when I move my body and/or change the environment, I immediately feel different
2. Slow down — I realized that I was moving so quickly that I felt out of control
3. Breathe —my breath was short and shallow, so I paused and took five deep breaths to calm
4. Read — picking up an inspiring book and thumbing through it helps me to come back to the present moment
5. Body — I noticed my hips in the chair, feet on the floor, and clothing on my skin as a way to regroup
6. Write — taking out pen and paper to write out what’s on my mind always helps to shake things off
Ever have one of those days? Maybe you’re even having one today. If so, try one of these six tips to bring yourself back to baseline. And, remember, you can always begin again. Bisous. x
The post 6 Ways to Shift Your Energy appeared first on Kimberly Wilson.
