What added value in November
Heartbreak from the male perspective, menstrual cycle tracking and the comparison trap (with yourself!)
Hello you!
November has been full of beauty here in Paris. The trees have just about lost all their leaves outside my bedroom window and you can feel the nights pulling in. The hope and excitement around Christmas is building with all the lights and decorations but in general life feels as though it’s slowing down in line with the seasons, as it should I think. We’re no different to the trees that bloom in spring, flourish all summer and then wither in autumn to rest throughout the winter. We’re just as alive.
These are the things I’ve found value in this month and I think you’ll enjoy too. As always take what appeals to you and leave what doesn’t but I hope there are a few gems in there for everyone.
Books
Good material by Dolly Alderton had me laughing out loud. I’ve never read about heartbreak from the male perspective before and it gave me a lot of food for thought, especially knowing Dolly actually interviewed a lot of guys on the subject as part of her writing process…turns out they do have feelings. Lots of them!
How to do the work is a book I’ve wanted to dive into for a while but felt resistant because I’ve been in a healing takes time and I need a breather phase in terms of my mental health. I’ve tentatively dove on in and I’m finding it really interesting as well as helpful.
Watches
The Beckham documentary on Netflix is full of nostalgia and I thought the how the storytelling combined the hero’s journey with love was really clever.
The Crown is back and I devoured all four episodes in one sitting. The cinematography is delicious. Love love love!
Claire Baker’s Instagram story highlights have become part of my day to day life again and I feel all the more seen for it. She has a highlight for each day of her menstrual cycle where she shares tips and her own experience. They’re so reassuring and validating.
Reads
The woman I used to be by Farrah Storr is a compelling read about comparing ourselves to ourselves from one of my favourite substack writers.
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