Hello, I’m Michelle from Opting Out, based in Brighton, UK. Subscribers can enjoy regular posts around slow living, rest, and opting out of burnout culture, plus my Weekend Mood Board of what’s currently inspiring me. Paid subscribers get access to ALL my work, including Slow Reading Group, live Co-Resting sessions, yoga nidra audios and pre-recorded full-length restorative yoga classes.
Its my dream to create a community of misfits, questioners and resters. Are you in? ✨
This past week, I started a weeklong solitary Buddhist retreat, but had to abandon a couple of days from the end due to some health challenges, and a trip to the Emergency Department. There had been much planning, arranging childcare for the week, preparing the elaborate shrine, getting food supplies in and generally mentally gearing up… So it goes.
What I’m reading:
Long Island by Colm Tóibín - Sick-bed reading at its finest.
What I’m enjoying:
Spacious days
What I’m listening to:
The silence in between.
What I’m Noticing:
The arrival of the summer swifts.
What I’m eating:
Jalapeno-stuffed olives.
What I’m Looking Forward To:
Celebrating my partner’s birthday this weekend.
What’s Inspiring Me:
Leigh Bowery’s unconventional creativity.
The power of community.
The spiritual journeys of others.
The resourcefulness of the magpie stealing pebbles from a neighbour’s garden.
Do something restful!
On the first Thursday of every month, I host an online Soothing Sound Bath, at 6.30-7.30pm UK time. It’s a great way to step out of thinking mind and experience deep rest. The next one is next Thursday 5th June. By donation.