Anjie's Favorite Things: Let's Get Cozy for September

Anjie Cho September 1, 2024

Welcome to Anjie’s Favorite Things!

Each month, we highlight products to help you create a holistic lifestyle that inspires and nurtures you, so that you can be happier and feel supported.

It’s already really starting to feel like fall, here in NYC. I can't believe it! We've had a long, warm summer, but the weather is beginning to get cooler and crisper, and soon we'll be switching walks in the park for snuggling up indoors. That's why this month's My Favorite Things is all about getting cozy! We put some thought into the necessities for a staying warm in the fall air, and here's what we came up with.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

Sun Yantra Mandala for Radiance & Warmth

I love mandalas as a way to add a certain energy or intention to a room. This Sun yantra mandala is perfect for warming up your space as the weather cools off!

The Sun is associated with individuality, radiance and yang energy. It depicts yellows and oranges and radiating lotus petals, and looks similar to the sun itself! As it represents warmth and radiance, this mandala is perfect for seasons when we see less sun.

Yellows and oranges are representative of nature, which is appropriate for autumn, and the bright colors are also a helpful dose of optimism and positive qi during fall and winter months.

Available at: Holistic Spaces

Wei of chocolate’s cardamom

I am a big fan of cardamom, and flower elixirs, and who doesn’t love chocolate??? My current favorite Wei of Chocolate flavor is Cardamom. It’s warming and uplifting and infused with Lotus Wei’s Sacred Awareness flower remedy blend for: heightened intuition, awakening, and energetic perception.

We’re invited to let the chocolate melt in the mouth to enhance the experience!

Available at: Lotus Wei

SENTIA non-alcoholic SPIRITS

I thrilled with the unique non-alcoholic offerings that are now available to all of us. I’ve been getting super cozy in the evenings with a relaxing mocktail with Sentia GABA Red (with passionflower, ashwagandha). I just pour some over ice with some sparkling water, and instant relaxation!

Check out: Sentia GABA Red

SheepSKIN Rug

When it comes to making your holistic space warmer, a wool rug is a no-brainer!

Most rugs can help to reduce the cool temperature beneath your feet, especially here in NYC where everything is wood flooring, but wool and sheepskin rugs are especially warm!

When looking for wool or sheepskins rugs, seek out organic and ethically sourced if possible.

I have two from Quince that I love!

Sandalwood Essential Oil

My favorite things for warming up wouldn't be a complete list without essential oils! Fall is a great time to utilize these incredible healing tools, and sandalwood is on our ultimate fall list.

My good friend, Andrea Giordano, of Aromatherachi, specializes in using essential oils to make amazing products like soap and bath salts, but she also sells the oil itself! Her sandalwood oil is sustainable and eco-friendly, sourced in Hawaii! Can you think of a warmer place?!

Available at: Aromatherachi

by Anjie Cho

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Anjie's Favorite Things: the fullness of summer

Anjie Cho August 1, 2024

Welcome to Anjie’s Favorite Things!

Each month, we highlight products to help you create a holistic lifestyle that inspires and nurtures you, so that you can be happier and feel supported.

We’re in the fullness of summer in August. It’s my favorite time of year because it’s also my birthday month! Plus this year I have my third book coming out: Mindful Living. But the real reason why I love August, is that I love the summertime. The last few years we’ve been visiting Maine to enjoy the water, hiking and the last days of summer.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

space | clearing Blend & Amethyst Mist for space & energy clearing

August is a big month to travel, as we’re taking advantage of the last days of summer. I never leave home for a trip without a bottle of my Holistic Spaces Space Clearing mist. The small 2 oz bottle is travel friendly and vital for those of us that are energetically sensitive.

The blend has white sage essential oil which purifies, and the amethyst crystal protects. The smell is divine, but the mist also clears away any stagnant energy that may be lingering in a hotel room or AirBNB.

Available at: Holistic Spaces

The buzz's insect-repelling perfume

I am a big fan of summertime. Biting insects are also big fans of summertime, and of me! I am the best mosquito repellent because they will feast on me and leave you alone!

I am a big fan of this DEET-free, plant-powered, chemical-free insect repellent that is also a wildcrafted botanical handcrafted elegant perfume. I recommend the Charlston scent. Top notes: Lemon & Lime; Middle: Orange, Bergamot & Mandarin; Base notes: Geranium

Available at: The BUZZ

BUG BITE THING

Still on the insect topic, I tried out the BUG BITE THING Suction tool and it really does work! Along with the BUZZ perfume, I also carry the suction tool in my pocket or purse to make sure I can use it if I get a bite.

Check out: BUG BITE THING

Out of the woods eco-friendly cooler backpack

When I think of August, I think of hikes and picnics. So I love my new Seagull Backpack Cooler from Out of the Woods.

Their products are cute, functional.. and did I mention: CUTE!

PLUS: they are lightweight, durable, and made from ethically sourced, sustainable materials, featuring Supernatural Paper® from responsibly managed forests.

Check out: Out of the Woods

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Q&A Sunday: Feng Shui & The Color Red

Guest User December 27, 2020

I like to decorate with the color red. What does that mean in feng shui?

We recently talked about the color black, which is a very yin color, related to the water element. Fiery red is the polar opposite. Fire energy is very bright, like the middle of summer. It can be really helpful to include some fiery elements, including red accents, in your home during this cold, dark time of year.

Red is the most auspicious color when it comes to feng shui. It’s dynamic, bold, and stimulating, and it really stands out. If someone walks into a room wearing red, you really notice them.

While red is appropriate for many applications, it’s not the best choice for restful spaces, so be careful not to use too much in places where you want to relax. Keep in mind what the spaces in your home are being used for, and what colors will support those activities.

A little red also goes a long way, so it’s generally best used in moderation. You probably wouldn’t want to wear red lipstick, red earrings, red blush, and a big red hat, for example - it would be too much for most people.

It makes perfect sense that red represents the fire element, which is connected to passion and inspiration, as well as the recognition area of the bagua map, called li. If you need more passion in your relationship, you can add red accents in your bedroom, like red sheets, pillows, or a throw blanket. (Remember, a little goes a long way!) Adding red to your bedroom can also be helpful if you want to find a partner and are having a hard time meeting people.

If you want to bring more recognition and inspiration to your career, try placing red around your desk. One way to do this is through artwork. I paint yantras, which are a beautiful way to bring some meaningful red artwork into your space. You can also create your own red artwork, by making a collage or vision board with a lot of red. If you need more passion and recognition in your life in general, you may want to add red to the li area of your home.

As you can tell, there are many ways you can work with red. That’s where a feng shui expert, like one of my students, would really be able to help and support you. If you’re not ready to work with a consultant, you can also dabble and play around with red, and see how it goes!

by Anjie Cho