And Breathe.

Now that we’re well into January I feel that I should be full of fresh zest and gusto – alas, that is not the case! It’s taken me a long time to shake the cobwebs this New Year. Two weeks off over Christmas had us feeling deeply relaxed having stifled the super-fast pace we were drumming away at in the lead-up to the festive season. This is the case for many, I know. I think for me it’s been made worse by the horrible grey weather – doesn’t help to put a spring in your step when the atmosphere is low and heavy. But! We have now had two gorgeous sunny, frosty days (proper winter days) of which I was able to enjoy the second this morning – I opted to nip out for a coffee instead of stay in, thanks to that tempting slice of blue sky.

A bracing walk in the cold

​Within five minutes I was walking at a brisk pace and tipping my nose to the nip in the air – a huge lungful of clear air does wonders for the soul. I find on these morning walks in the quiet my mind starts to gear up a bit faster than it does cooped up indoors. The inner dialogue is kick-started and I suddenly find myself asking questions about my surroundings, narrating the lives of those around me and looking to the day (and months) ahead with a hopeful attitude. Sound familiar? I guess they call it ‘Blue Sky Thinking’ for a reason.

Frosty leaves cruch underfoot

It’s a shame we live in a country where winter can mean long periods of hibernating away from the grey outdoors when a little bit of sunshine (and distinct lack of rain) can afford so much by way of motivation. Particularly, I have to say (because of course I am biased) in the wonderful city of Edinburgh. It has so much to offer for the fan of the outdoors. A morning spent outside = a productive day: which for any freelancer; is a goldmine.

At the moment organisation is my new resolution – proper organisation! As in; the type that comes with sticky notes, binders, colour-coded tabs and a plethora of bargain-bucket-buys from the nearest stationary shop. Where would I be without my Gmail calendar? That little piece of magic is a life-saver for the multi-tasker. Hopping between audience development and marketing, writing and reviewing (anything from quick post-work dinner to weekend breaks squeezed in at the last minute), co-chairing the SYP (monthly events and a conference – easy!), planning our wedding (18 weeks?!) and oh yes getting fit and healthy (oh, just five times a week?); leaves one feeling just a little bit tired from chasing one’s tail. Projects tend to come and go as they please and it’s a hard task grabbing on as they whoosh by... and yet, our interest is sparked and we do.

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Quiet beauty awaits the thoughtful mind

So as another hectic week draws to a close I sit inspired by my blue-sky slice of pie. One brisk walk (essential coffee in hand, thanks Peter’s Yard) one yoga class, and one blog post down (hurrah!) I feel a tangible new energy with which to embrace tonight’s concert (launching a new project). Positive thinking made me book us in for The Wedding Collective’s Bridal Market on Friday (and Saturday if you’re keen) topping it all off nicely with a breezy 9am restorative yoga class on Saturday…
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What was that about breathing?