Checking-In.
As a recovering people pleaser, this past weekend was a refreshing chance to step back and let go of my “fix it” attitude. Normally, I’d be the one rallying the group to catch the return boat on time or stepping in when the boat driver struggled to explain instructions to some rowdy passengers. This time, I took a backseat. I let someone else take the lead and let the boat driver handle the situation. Thankfully, things worked out fine without my intervention.
We camped at Tarkwa Bay Beach, one of the islands only accessible by boat; a mix of friends and acquaintances. It’s something we do occasionally—a few days of talking, playing, practising yoga, and meditation, all while enjoying the ocean and sleeping in actual tents 😆. Between swimming (or, in my case, waddling) in the waves and enjoying the sun and salt on my skin, it was a perfect reminder of how freeing it can be to just **be**.
The rising cost of living in Nigeria has made it difficult to enjoy a social life. In Lagos, where I live, most activities revolve around loud music and overpriced drinks that leave little room to truly relax. That’s why this weekend felt like such a gift. It was an opportunity to be with good people in a peaceful setting, far from the city’s noise, where I could be myself without needing to perform- or wear clothes because I love being in a bikini!
One of my favorite things about our gatherings is the affirmation circle. We sit in a circle and write positive messages to each other. It's amazing how 10 to 12 people, many of whom are strangers, share the little things they noticed about you. I received a note that said,
“I really admire how comfortable you are in your body and self and how you flow with the pace. Thank you for showing me I can achieve this too.”
It was such a small observation, but it made me smile, reminding me of how we impact each other without realising. It’s the only kind of people-pleasing I enjoy! Now, I’ve got two notebooks filled with these affirmations, and I hope my notes bring as much joy, or laughter to others as theirs do to me.
Check out my playlist from the weekend. Hope you like it.
P.S: did you read my post about Human Design? I think you’ll enjoy it. 🤓
I see we have similar music tastes 🔥