November Monthly Report: Monthly Favourites & Simple Joys
Welcome to my first R.E.P.O.R.T. – a gentle way to document the little things that I’m loving, eating, reading at the moment.
R is for Recommendation
E is for Eating
P is for Practising
O is for Obsessing over
R is for Reading
T is for Treating myself
Something that I recommend
November and December are the busiest work months of the year for me. So finding calm in the chaos has been a priority lately, and I've been turning to stress relief playlists and calm frequencies while working. It creates such a peaceful atmosphere and helps me stay centred, especially during busy days. I would recommend it to anyone that feels a bit stressed at work or you can even put the playlist at any time of the day when you feel life is just a little bit too much.
What I’m eating
I'm not typically big on snacking, but I've been loving creating these simple snack boards in the afternoon. My current favourite combination includes a little bit of salt and sweet:
Simple Mills Almond Flour Crackers (the best!)
Cottage cheese sprinkled with Kanel Montreal Bagel Spice blend (game changer!)
Honey-Dijon turkey slices
For the sweet touch, I'll add either a piece of Unreal chocolate or half a Mid-Day square.
I really try to make protein the star of my meals and snacks, and this board provides about 20-25g.
Something I’m practising
November tends to be quite busy work-wise, so I redownloaded the Open app to incorporate more breathwork into my routine. I practise right after my morning workout, and it's become such a grounding way to start the day.
What I appreciate most about the Open app is its simplicity – the daily meditation or breath session is already selected, unlike some other apps where I can spend too long choosing. Plus, the beautiful design makes the experience even more enjoyable.
What I’m obsessing over
Ok so my mom gifted me the Salt & Stone shower gel, in Bergamot and Hinoki, and oh my goodness, it's transformed my shower routine! The scent is so luxurious and lovely that I had to get the matching hand cream too.
What I’m reading
I’m currently reading The Silent Patient and it’s so good. For all my thriller lovers out there, this one's a must-read. It's this month's pick for my book club, which has become such a meaningful part of my life. What started last year as a simple way to regularly connect with two of my friends has evolved into these beautiful moments of deep conversation and shared vulnerability. It's amazing how books can open up these spaces for connection.
What I’m treating myself to
Puzzles have become my newest form of self-care. While they used to be just a holiday tradition for me (you know, that one puzzle you do every December), they've become my go-to mood booster during these darker months. November can feel a bit heavy sometimes, so I've been looking for little things that spark joy so puzzle it is.
Right now, I'm deep into my second fall-themed puzzle before diving into the winter collection. Galison, Pieces & Peace and eeboo have absolutely nailed that warm, cosy Hallmark aesthetic that just makes you want to jump right into the scene.
I love to wake up on the weekend and make some puzzles with my coffee or to wind down after a long day of work. It’s the best screen-free activity and it’s so rewarding. There's something so satisfying about clicking each piece into place – it gives me that same little rush of accomplishment as checking off items on my to-do list.