I've worked at home for seven years now, my husband is at home most of the time, as well, and we have no kids, so life hasn't changed that much for us. Still, something feels different. Especially since we're entering the dry season in the Philippines, and typically that would mean more outdoor time. Kids would be on summer break (March-June) and the beaches would be filling with residents and tourists alike. 

Everything is quiet now as people tuck into their homes. My husband and I will miss our regular Sunday petanque tournament - a whole day of games and friends and music. 

Our regular hangouts are ghost towns. The ballet performance I'd be in this Saturday was postponed, as well as all classes. 

So yeah, things haven't changed drastically for me, but they've changed. There's a bit of heaviness in the air and the anxiety of not knowing what will happen. My work has slowed to a near halt, friends and family have lost jobs, I worry about access to my husband's medicines. 

I know worry and fear won't change or make anything better. I know we can only take it one day at a time and trust that we will be provided for. That's all any of us can do. 

Amidst all this, I know there is still fun and laughter and love to be found. There are still good things and good people and much to cherish. I've been trying to make the most of this time, as I'm sure you have as well. 

Here are some things that have brought me joy lately. Maybe they will bring you joy too. :)

With no ballet classes or rehearsals going on, it's important that I keep up my stamina, strength, and flexibility for when they do start again. Besides, if I go a few days without exercise I get grumpy. 

Here are some of my favorite fitness ladies to follow:

This 4 year old kid makes me smile so much. I don't think he ever stops dancing, and he definitely knows how to shine his light. Watch his family's live dance parties for a serious happiness boost.

Of course my pets, and animals in general, have always brought me joy. I can seriously just sit and watch the goats play for hours and not get bored. 

Yesterday I sat on my usual coconut log and watched a set of new baby chicks peck around their mom while Brownie, the 3 month old goat, continually headbutt me and tried to get in my lap. He loves attention!

Everyday I visit the goats and the chickens and play with my dog. My husband and I get a kick out of watching him try and "play" with the neighborhood cat. It mostly involves a lot of staring and barking. 

Last Sunday I managed to bathe both the dog and the goat. Not at the same time, mind you!​

Normally, my husband and I eat out more than we cook at home. I don't enjoy cooking all that much, and my husband is more of a backyard BBQ party kind of guy. Since we don't have the luxury of either of those things, I'm using this time to learn new recipes. My criteria; must be easy and simple. The less time/ingredients, the better. Here are a few that get a big thumbs up:

I hope you're finding joy and beauty and love and laughter throughout your days. Keep those vibes high and feel free to share your happiness resources in the comments below! 

​I'm currently sitting in my office drinking Earl Gray lavender tea. There's a nice breeze blowing through the window. The palm trees sway against bright blue skies. 

Another day in paradise. 

Except that the world is topsy turvy at the moment. I stood in line for an hour at the grocery store yesterday; everyone had at least two carts worth of food (not toilet paper because we have butt sprayers - ha!). The ballet I was performing in next week has been postponed and all rehearsals canceled. The news is a constant flood of discouragement and worry.

When will it all end? Will anyone I know get sick? Will I get sick? I have a lung disorder so will it affect me more? Oh God, my throat hurts!

It's easy to feel upset about the state of the world right now. It's normal to feel frustrated. You might find yourself wondering, how can I live a magical life and find beauty in all this muck? 

Life as we know it has changed (for the moment), but it's not over. There is plenty of beauty still around, plenty of magical moments to be found, plenty of opportunities to turn some lemons into pink lemonade. 

But for those moments when you feel anxious, angry, sad, and frustrated, here are some magical ways you can calm and cleanse your spirit. And remember, just take it one day at a time.   

Journal 

Whether you already journal every day or haven't touched a notebook in years, now is a good time to get your thoughts on paper. Writing down your feelings about what's going on in your life, whether it's about the virus or not, is a great way to clear your mind and understand what you're thinking.

Sometimes I have no idea why I feel a certain way until I journal about it. Taking all that brain chatter and putting it on the page brings me peace, even if whatever situation or problem I'm writing about isn't solved. Just the fact that I've given those thoughts a place to rest helps me move forward.

Try it. Don't worry about grammar. Just scribble away. Get artistic if you want. Whatever helps you transform those negative feelings into more peaceful ones. 

Start/End the Day with a Calming Meditation 

You know the benefits of meditating so why not use this time (especially if you're stuck at home) to start and/or end the day with a meditation that soothes the soul? 

Try different styles to see which ones work for you: guided, instrumental, vibration-based, ASMR, or this Collective Peace Meditation by Sage Goddess.
​

​Aromatherapy Using Essential Oils 

Whether it's a drop of essential oil perfume on your wrist or in an oil diffuser, scent is a powerful force that can transport and transform us. When you feel stressed, tired, anxious, or scared, use a corresponding oil to uplift and calm your nerves. You can wear the oil, place in a diffuser, rub on or drop into candles, infuse your bath, etc. 

Essential oils to try:

• Eucalyptus - a healing aid that can be used after an illness or for purification
• Geranium - healing and eases pain
• Hyacinth - a relaxing oil that brings peace of mind
• Jasmine - relaxing, helps one sleep
• Lavender - healing, purifying, and relaxing
• Lilac - brings peace and harmony
• Nutmeg - aids in sleep
• Sesame - provides hope in times of sickness and to those who feel discouraged

Cast a Spell 

A truly witchy way to calm and cleanse during trying times is to cast a spell. I found three simple spells that are perfect for easing anxiety and refreshing the spirit. Practice them throughout the coming weeks and allow peace to unfurl within you.

💜 Worry and Anxiety Spells

💜 A Happiness Ritual Bath

💜 A Spell to Help You Sleep


Drink a Cup of Herbal Tea 

It's always important to stay hydrated and you can and should drink water throughout the day, but you can also add a cup or two of calming tea to your refreshment repertoire.

​Lavender and chamomile tea are lovely to drink before retiring for the evening, as they help soothe nerves and aid in sleep. You can also find herbal tea blends that provide tranquility and healing. 

Make a Salt Bowl 

Have you ever noticed how soothing, clean, and energetically refreshing the ocean feels? Whether you're admiring the rolling waves from the shoreline or immersing yourself in the healing waters, worries, fears, and frustrations seem to melt away. 

One of the reasons the beach is such a magical place is because of the salty sea and air, which have a purifying affect.

You can bring a little of that beach magic into your home by crafting a salt bowl. A salt bowl can aid in absorbing negative energy, leaving your space cleansed and refreshed. 

Starlight Witch has an in-depth post about salt bowls and how you can create one that best suits your purposes.