Monday Musings: On Relevancy and Honesty
I have a lot to percolate about my trip to Miraval in Austin and will share an update as soon as things have gelled. I did want to express my surprise to hear from readers who felt offended that I would be interested in and attend sessions on everything from yoga to Lunar phases, to meditation, Reiki, and learning about crystal energy, etc. I don’t see them as in conflict with my spirituality, but some people do.
I choose to explore the world and be open to new experiences. Having an open mind and curiosity about life helps keep us relevant. I’ll continue to share my discoveries and thoughts with you here because, although not an open book, I am willing to expose parts of myself to my audience. Many bloggers expose tiny snippets of their lives, and some share it all. Some also show a whitewashed, “perfect” version of their lives, which makes me feel lacking, so I won’t do that. I believe we grow and form healthy bonds by sharing our truths. I don’t expect to be everyone’s cup of tea, and if I’m not yours, I get it.
I began my blog in 2012 as a lifestyle blog. It morphed into sharing a lot of fashion as more women expressed interest. What we wear is a powerful tool that helps us express our individuality, strength, and can build our confidence. I will continue to focus on fashion, because frankly, I love it and know the potential it holds to improve our lives! FYI, I did put thought into my outfits for this trip, and didn’t capture one photo of them so that tells you where my attention was focused. I’ll recreate them at home and share soon.
I didn’t take a poll, but I think I’m the oldest woman in our group of 10 who attended this Miraval retreat which has also felt interesting.
Save or Splurge Puffer Vest Outfit
Here’s another save or splurge outfit for inspiration this week. For many of us, who don’t live in frigid climates, it’s puffer vest season so I thought this would be fun.
Some classic straight leg jeans, tan booties and bag with a winter white vest and a bright pop of pink to lift your spirits.
The logos are a giveaway here, but without them, could you tell the save vs the splurge outfit?
Thanks for reading and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.
I totally agree with you. It’s good to have an open mind, expand your knowledge, and explore new things. I would have loved to be on that retreat. Can’t wait to hear all about it!
You go girl! Experiencing these traditions will give you a long happy life, and I agree does not interfere with spirituality. Enjoy your trip!
Great post. Thank you for sharing. I canāt imagine anyone who claims to be spiritual being offended by yoga or meditation. Reiki is accepted by organizations like Hospice and many major hospital use it. Being open to life is a beautiful thing.
@Jan H. It is a bit concerning that hospitals are using Reiki which falls under the umbrella of pseudoscience.
I had Reiki during my breast reduction surgery. Recovery was quick with only aspirin for pain relief. I don’t understand how this or other modalities has a spiritual conflict. I found that the naysayers have never explored these things so who are they to tell anyone else what to do. Enjoy yourself, find yourself in the way that works for you.
Jennifer, I love how you are open to new experiences and learning, and am looking forward to an update on your spa retreat.
I read your blog because it has many things of interest and although not everything you suggest is appealing, I appreciate the intention and effort you put into it. Thank you.
I love the combination in these outfits.
Hi, I was absolutely SHOCKED there is a sign behind you in the first first photo- a Designated Smoking Area. āāāannd it is Indoors. In a supposed wellness retreat. No. Just absolutely no. Second hand smoke is just as deadly as smoking itself.
This was taken at the airport. Sorry for the confusion. Although I did see a woman smoking a E cigarette.
Love your posts, Jennifer. Always good to broaden our thoughts and find tranquility and balance in whatever form one wishes. Keep up the good work!
Jennifer, I enjoy your column very much and admire your openness and spirit of adventure. It is shocking to hear that some disapprove of your exploration. Donāt listen to the naysayersā¦you do you! ā¤ļøā¤ļøā¤ļø
Happy Monday, Jennifer. Nobody has a right to question or attack someone else’s spirituality. This is far worse than the political discussions we all want to avoid. We have only one life to live and to spend it with a closed mind attacking someone else’s core essence is just plain wrong.
I agree and it speaks more of them than it does me.
Jennifer, I liked reading about your retreat. I found encouragement that you, someone my age, were trying something new. I enjoy your work. Thank you for sharing!š
I love the outfit inspiration……such a great simple fashionable idea and if someone needed to switch a color out for something that better suits them they could.
I also hope you’re relaxing and allowing your mind and body to enjoy your well earned down time.
Itās been an amazing experience.
As far as I’m concerned we all need to get out of our crusty comfort zones from time to time and make ourselves open to other people, other perspectives, and other customs. Kudos to you Jennifer for stretching yourself in that manner! I look forward to reading what you took away from the conference/retreat.
Crusty is such a great descriptive word! Itās so easy to get stuck in the comfort of whatās familiar.
Good morning, questioning your spiritually is strange and judging. You do you!!
Both outfits are great but the logos on the high end bag and belt are off putting to me. I don’t do free advertising. Happy Monday!
Happy Monday!
I enjoy learning about new things and have been to my share of yoga, singing bowl, Reiki, etc. Not everything strikes a chord with me but I like to keep an open mind because there is so much out there to learn about and the universe has many mysteries. Good luck on your journey.
I totally agree.
Your trip sounds great, being able to experience new things is enlightening. I do appreciate your information and ideas and being able to pick and choose what works for me but knowing lots of options that I would not have know about.
Thank you.
I am so delighted to find that you had an opportunity to experience Miraval! Years ago, as I was immersed in what was to become many years of caregiving, I attended a workshop on self-care at Miraval -Arizona. It was enlightening, refreshing and life giving. I met wise women of all ages and from all over the world. A few years later I treated myself (out of character for me) to a similar conference because I needed to recharge and it would be the final opportunity to experience one of the exceptional workshop leaders who was at an advanced age.
Lately I have been considering exploring whether I could find another workshop to attend with my daughter.
What a wonderful gift – I look forward to hearing about your experience.
Caregiving is such hard work. You were wise to look after yourself. Iām thinking I would like to do one of these with my daughter too. Iāve seen quite a few mother/daughter duos here.
Jennifer, I applaud and am inspired by your open-hearted willingness to explore any avenues previously unexplored and I’m glad you’re not allowing those motivated by fear (often unconsciously) to negatively influence your desire to do so.
I believe one key in thriving as we age is FLEXIBILITY- in our bodies, beings, and mind. It’s the core of a fitBEYONDform mentality that I embrace as my life’s work, and I feel this “flexible” energy from you in your posts, which keeps me coming back. Fashion I can take or leave, but an adventurous spirit who is continuously willing to put themselves out there- trying new things, embracing the challenge of being a “beginner” in areas previously unexplored, sharing transparently without a need for perfection, and never letting a number- age or any other, dictate their steps, THAT person is, in a word you used above and I LOVE, a PERCOLATOR. Keep perking Jennifer. Your messages resonate with all who are meant to receive them.
Thatās a great way to look at it Lisa. Thank you for sharing.
Oh! ….. My! …. Goodness! ….. Be who you are! ….. And, enjoy it!
Have a great Monday!
I am sorry to hear that readers actually wrote to you, giving you grief about what sessions you attended at a retreat. You are wise to ignore them
Thatās part of what Iām learning. Letting go.
Nice outfits! Glad your trip was a success. I guess questioning spirituality was the last thing I would have thought. I remember growing up we were taught to not ask what religion someone was, who they voted for or how much money they madeā¦.lol.
I was too!!
Never be afraid to try new things – how will you know you donāt like something if all you do is listen to others opinions? How many others would enjoy the ballet, operas or live theatre if they would attend a performance? Thank you for your blog. I look forward to it daily and really enjoy the Dressing Room days!
Your spa adventure sounds truly fun. The older that I get, I see spirituality in far more aspects than the religion that I was brought up in. I look forward to reading about it. But for the handbag logo, I could not tell the outfits apart. In fact, I prefer the vest in the save collection!
I am 91 years old and Iād go with you in a minute!!! Years ago, I went to my first yoga class and, for some church friends, it wasnāt acceptable. I loved the classesā¦ā¦and feel that it has contributed to my health. Thank you for your willingness to let us know what you are doing!!!
Iām taking a trip to Sedona next month with 3 friends who are very interested in crystals/Reiki etc. Iām going b/c my feet are so firmly planted on the ground that I think it will be good for me! I donāt see it as a conflict with my Christian faith. I applaud you to staying open to new experiences and look forward to hearing about your trip.
Good for you Carole! Enjoy!
Thanks for the save – spurge outfits. I have the outfit in my closet w/o the boots. Always enjoy your musings.
Yay. Itās a fun look.
I think itās shows a lot of emotional and intellectual strength to be open to new experiences. I applaud that. I have often found that exploring new things has strengthened my current beliefs. Please continue with your great clothing advice. At 66, I still feel relevant and attractive. Thank you!
am so glad you did a women’s wellness retreat and if some narrow-minded people cannot be open to Ancient Wisdom that has been integrated into eons of women’s lives, then that is simply sad…
I love how you describe this as ancient wisdom. Thatās exactly what it is.
On the splurge vs save, I actually have pridyced a tie! I like them equally – the first time ever for me!
Yay
Hi Jennifer! Well I applaud you for seeking out this respite and joyful experience after a hectic ( yet happy) holiday season. No matter how much happiness our Holiday season renders, it’s a lot of work for women or men (being honest here), the ones who cook and clean and shop and wrap. A respite like this sounds wonderful to me! Looking forward to learning how you packed.
Thanks Paulette
Iām looking forward to hearing about your experience in Austin; sounds very interesting to me!! Iām glad youāre sharing ideas other than just fashion. I enjoy that too though! Thanks, what you do is a lot of work!
It sure it. Iām trying to find more work life balance this year.
The YSL logo on the bag did it for me. I donāt think I could bring myself to spend several hundred dollars on a puffy vest, even though I saw a lovely Moncler at the Rome airport duty free shops. You look very refreshed after your sojourn in Austin.
Iām shocked and disappointed that people would criticize your decision to attend any self improvement activities. Iām very interested in hearing about your Miraval experience.
As my young niece says āDon’t let the haters get you downā.
Your niece is wise!
I appreciate your perspective on blogging, thank you for sharing and for being open and curious! My husband and I went to Miraval in the Berkshires last summer and loved it, looking forward to hearing about your experience.
I understand that one is beautiful!