I’ve known American author Heather Brainerd ever since we had our first books published around the same time with the same publisher, and we’ve remained friends ever since. I hope to meet in real life some day. In the meantime, I’ve been lucky to get to know Heather as a guest on my blog before – one time was when she gave this delicious recipe for chocolate crinkles, which I made myself and I can vouch for their deliciousness.
It’s a great pleasure to welcome Heather back today on the re-release of the first in her Josie Cates Mysteries.
Welcome to Yorkshire, Heather! I’ve made another batch of your chocolate crinkles and a big pot of tea :)
Finding Inner Calm
By Heather Brainerd
These days, the world feels close to spinning out of control. So many people are struggling to find calm in the midst of chaotic events and uncertain times. If you need help, I urge you to reach out to the people in your life or the organizations that provide support.
If you simply could use a bit of a boost, I have a few suggestions.
Get outside
Fresh air, sunlight, and the sights and sounds of nature can do wonders to boost your mood. I enjoy taking my 13-year-old “puppy” on daily walks. We both feel more calm afterward.
Meditate
There are many different forms of mindfulness and meditation. The benefits – both physical and emotional – have been shown in a plethora of scientific studies. Even just five minutes a day can make a difference. For more tips and free guided meditations, visit me at Calluna Wellness.
Read a book
I find that light, fun reading is called for these days. It’s a lovely distraction and helps me find inner calm. Helena Fairfax has many books that provide a lighthearted escape, and I recommend them all! With the help of Helena’s editing skills, I’ve recently dusted off my old mystery series and given it a metaphysical twist. The first book is out now on Kindle and coming soon in paperback. Books two and three to follow!
Wishing you all the best, my friends. We’ll get through this together.
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Thanks so much, Heather, and wishing you all the best, too. I love your calm meditation photo, and I totally agree with your three tips!
Here is the blurb to The Energy Eater, the first in the Josie Cates Mysteries, which was written by Heather and her brother David, and published under the name Heather David.
I very much enjoyed editing this book and spending time with wise-cracking Josie, P.I.
Business is dead slow for new private detective Josie Cates. As her bank account dwindles, her first big client finally walks in the door. Chef Marco hires Josie to find out who’s skimming money from his restaurant. It doesn’t take her long to discover that things at Bistro Italiano aren’t what they seem. Secrets cling to Chef Marco like spattered marinara. While following the clues, Josie is drawn into an unexpected metaphysical adventure…
The Energy Eater is available on Amazon.
And you can find Heather at Calluna Wellness on Facebook and on Instagram @moana_fett
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It’s been great having Heather back on the blog. I hope you found her post useful. If you’ve found recent times difficult, or if you have any tips of your own on finding and keeping your inner calm, please do drop in and let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.
Helena Fairfax 
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