Hey there. I want to start by saying thank you. Last week, I asked how I could help and so many of you answered. Beautiful people facing very human challenges.
Transformation isn't just about gaining knowledge; it's also about finding community that aligns with your values and aspirations. My mission is to honor your voice and individuality, and empower you to lead a rich, purposeful life.
In moments of personal or global heartbreak, it’s so important to remember our humanity and lean into the connections we share. To find the beauty in each other, and in the natural world.
💬 This issue is molded from the tender things you shared.
-- Stress is high. There's serenity in sound – boost your mood with music
-- Listen to an anonymous story a reader shared, and my response
-- Want a little joy? Watch elephants and cooks dance together!
kickstart a better mood with music breaks
Music is a potent tool for lifting your spirits, managing stress, reducing pain, and motivating you to get after your goals. It's a simple way to take care of yourself every day.
- Faster tempo like pop: helps you feel more alert, positive, dial in concentration
- Rock + classical music: can change your average mood to a great one
- A slower tempo like blues, r+b, alt rock: helps you process, quiet your mind, relax muscles, and release the stress of the day
Put on your favorite playlist, or check out the song we have on repeat and let it lift your mood!
Wild is Life. I dare you to join me! 🕺🏽🦒🐘
If you've known me for awhile, you have likely seen the video I am about to share. Created in 2021 by the Wild is Life Trust Zimbabwe Elephant Nursery as part of the Jerusalema Challenge, with over 3M views. This video is so infectious and uplifting that is guaranteed to lift your spirits!
Why do I still love watching this 2 years later? Because, maybe like you, I am searching for joy during seasons of pain. Feeding my mental and physical resilience is a daily practice in my life, and an investment for my future.
Rewatching this, I had an idea.💡What if we watch this awesome video daily for a week and report back on how it made us feel?!
I challenge you – are you in?⚡️
Letters from our readers
These stories are anonymous, but you know who you are. 🤗
A love note for "L" –
"My mom keeps trying to get me to break up with him so I can get "the real college experience...how I can talk to my mom, do you have any suggestions?"
Hint – a key to connection: staying calm (and persistently warm) while sharing your needs. Even in conflict. Disconnections are a fact of life, it’s the repair that matters.
By communicating your needs, you step into your power.
Thanks for writing in, "L"! By being vulnerable and sharing your story, you have created an opportunity for all of us to reflect and learn. 💫
In your corner. 🫶🏼
Kate, Theo and The Bright Side team
