Chapter 2: Finding Serenity in Chaos
With Thought-Provoking People, Inspiring Reads and Comic Relief
Leap & Feast is your weekly dose for romantic mishaps, yummy feasts, globetrotting escapades, TV escapism, life musings & more! I'm Marina, a gal on a wild journey through the good, bad & everything in between.
In this chapter:
Roam the Untamed Wilderness
Secrets to a Balanced Life
InstaGems: Must-Follow Instagrammers
The Power of a Simple Ingredient
Captivated by Art's Magic
Into The Woods
During the pandemic, I got sucked into the vortex of YouTube videos and, honestly, I'm still trying to find my way back to reality. While some YouTubers have faded away from my subscriber list, there's one whom I continue to avidly follow: Isabel Paige. She's a woman in her twenties who resides in a tiny house she built on her family's land in the woods of Washington State. The way she perceives the world is truly impressive, especially considering her young age and ongoing self-discovery. Her channel is a must-watch for anyone interested in a slower-paced lifestyle, nutritious meals, and let me tell you, her editing and cinematography skills are absolutely amazing. Don’t be surprised if you watch one video and then get sucked into the vortex as well!
Path to Inner Peace
Five years ago, I sat a 10-day silent Vipassana meditation retreat, an experience that I'll be writing about in an upcoming chapter. Ever since then, I've been fascinated by various philosophies and techniques that can help calm my wandering and active mind. One person who caught my attention is Ryan Holiday, a modern-day Stoic, whom I've come across on several podcasts and eagerly devoured all of his books. Each one deeply resonated with me, so I ordered his journal: "The Daily Stoic Journal: 366 Days of Writing and Reflection on the Art of Living." This journal presents a new question every day, accompanied by morning and evening reflections. This diary completely shifted my perspective on numerous issues and concerns I was grappling with. I wholeheartedly recommend the journal (or his books) to anyone seeking a deeper personal understanding and the opportunity to explore questions you may have never contemplated before.
“Control your perceptions. Direct your actions properly. Willingly accept what’s outside your control.”
By the way, if you're not familiar with Stoicism, it's a philosophical school of thought that originated in ancient Greece. It emphasizes self-control, resilience, and finding inner peace amidst the challenges we face in daily life. Stoicism teaches us to focus on what is within our control and to accept the things we cannot change (which can be very difficult).
InstaSpotlight: Top Instagrammers You Should Follow
Brunch With Babs: “The internet mom/grandma you didn’t know you needed.” Babs is a sweet lady who provides simple yet effective tips to make life a little bit easier.
Shabaz Says: “The Robin Hood Of TikTok.” With a humorous and down-to-earth approach, Shabaz playfully takes on the wealthy (how much 'fancy' ice can one household use), all while supporting the povvos' (British slang for poor individuals) who bear the burden of the cost of living crisis.
Nick Trawick 13: Follow Nick, his alter ego Kleptora and his trusty backpack as they go on adventures, from being a Beyonce backup dancer, ‘borrowing’ items from Walmart to his appearance at the Met Gala. Join him on a ride filled with excitement and mischief!
A Libation Revelation
For me, nothing is more refreshing than a simple gin and soda, garnished with a squeeze of lime. Recently, a bartender added a sprig of rosemary to the mix, infusing this uncomplicated drink with aromatic essence. As a result, this familiar beverage now offers an exciting new flavor that I've been thoroughly enjoying.
Have you been pleasantly surprised by a secret ingredient or technique that completely transformed a drink? Please share the details.
Galloping through Art's Playground
Whenever I'm in London, you'll find me (multiple times) at the National Gallery in Trafalgar Square—it's a tradition I never miss! I'm drawn here by the magnetic pull of one particular painting that has held me captivated for over twenty years: George Stubbs' masterpiece of Whistlejacket, the powerful stallion racehorse.
The way Stubbs captured the realism of Whistlejacket's pulsing veins, windswept mane, and piercing eyes is what mesmerizes me. It's as if those eyes are a reflection of our own souls, making me feel a deep connection—proud yet slightly afraid, confident yet questioning.
Maybe Stubbs' intention was for us to see ourselves in Whistlejacket—energetic, beautiful, and thoughtful, with the freedom to forge our own powerful path in life.
I hope you enjoyed Chapter 2!
Next week, join me on a journey through my love affair with Italy. Dating tales, an emotional meal, a surprising revelation through a hidden peephole, what happens when you miss the last train, and more! Subscribe so you don’t miss out.
xo Marina
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