How to Take Time Out in a Busy World

*this post contains gifted items, however, all opinions stated are my own*

The world is scary at the moment. I suppose it always has been, really. There is always something to be worried about, whether it is in our personal lives or the national news. 

However, these are sometimes things we can put to one side. We can choose to forget about them for just a moment, to put them in a drawer for us to open later. 

But coronavirus doesn't want to be put away. It begs for attention wherever we go, upturning everything from what it was before. Everyone around us is no longer the figure they were before, but two eyes staring above a mask. Processes are different, from walking into a shop to travelling on a train. It is plastered everywhere: online, offline and everything in between. It is virtually inescapable. 

This causes us to feel a loss of control which, for a bit of a control-freak like me, is not a comfortable feeling. Therefore, is so important to take a step back, to grasp some autonomy over your life and do something a bit normal. 

For me, this has to be a physical separation. To breathe a little easier, I have to put my phone to one side and move away. I understand that there is a privilege in being able to step away like this, and I am incredibly grateful for the ability to close my eyes to the world for just a few moments. 

If you are able to, I suggest you do the same. Put your phone to one side, and do something tangible. Fill a teapot and let the warmth of it come through against your fingers. Or pick up a book, and let the pages rustle across your palm. Smell, see and touch what is around you. 

We live in such a fast-paced world, and often the material items we own reflect that. If you can afford to, it is so important to purchase items from smaller brands, that put so much of their love into what they are doing. There is something so special about owning an item that you know was made with such passion. That wasn't made on a factory line, but rather somebody's house or workshop. 

I am working with Cara at Sparrows Nest Ceramics for the next few months, and feel extremely grateful to be doing so. She describes her work as free forming, open and never rigid or absolute. She uses primitive techniques that bring her back to nature: arts which a lot of us have said goodbye to in the modern age. 

This teacup set is a part of her beautiful collection, taking on an 'Alice in Wonderland' theme. There is no other mug like it, as each one is unique in its own right. Items like this add a new sense of peace to a moment. You know that by buying it, you have helped somebody achieve their dreams and what they love to do. 

So please, try to take a minute to breathe a little easier. Wear what makes you feel good inside, put yummy food into your body and surround yourself with an environment you love. If you'd like to use one of Cara's pieces to do so, my discount code SINCERELYLEMILY will give you a 20% discount off your purchase.