Taste:
Oysters
I was in Maine last week with one of my closest friends from high school. Ordinarily I consider myself 98% plant-based but once or twice a year I go for Oysters and here’s why:
Oysters have a briny, slightly sweet flavor that evokes the ocean, with a unique, tender texture that's both silky and firm. They’re often described as tasting fresh and clean, like a breath of salty sea air. As a sustainable food, oysters play a vital role in maintaining healthy marine ecosystems by filtering water and providing habitats for other sea life. They're a great choice for vegans like me who are open to eating bivalves because, unlike sentient animals, oysters lack a central nervous system, which means they likely don’t feel pain. Health-wise, oysters are packed with essential nutrients like zinc, iron, and vitamin B12, making them a powerhouse for boosting immunity, supporting brain health, and enhancing energy levels. (there are also some rumors that they are also an aphrodisiac - to which I’ll just plead the 5th)
Scent:
I had to include this canine perfume line to the list this week because if a dog named Fefe craves a fancy sandalwood and ylang ylang mist then we all do. Dolce and Gabbana has introduced a line of doggie perfume mists that are alcohol free and safe for them. Now if they could only make a product that magically mists my kitty litters into a sweet-smelling rose I’ll be all set in life.
Sound:
This story really touched me. Parents of a non-verbal autistic boy took him to the Boston Symphony where he listened intently to the mellifluous sounds of all the instruments played in concert. He uncharacteristically and loudly proclaimed “Wow!” and with that one 3-letter word expressed the immense power of music.
Touch:
Gua Sha
My husband and girls went camping this weekend sans little ole me. I got to have the whole house to myself for 20 glorious hours! In addition to reading, doing yoga and making myself a home-cooked yummy meal, I gave myself a little facial as well. My routine is not elaborate but it has gotten pretty consistent. Every day I’ll use a gentle cleanser, an astringent and a deep moisturizing cream for my face. Once a week, I’ll do a clay mask and every few weeks I’ll get super fancy with a vitamin C serum and use my beautiful Jade Gua Sha tool for a facial massage.
Gua sha is an ancient practice that's like a mini workout for your face, using smooth stones to gently massage the skin. The cool, smooth texture of the stone feels soothing as it glides over your skin, boosting circulation, reducing puffiness, and leaving you with a radiant, refreshed glow—think of it as a natural glow-up with a side of self-care.
Sight:
Funky Nail Polish designs
I’m a nail-biter and have been since I was a child. Oh yes, I’ve tried to stop many times utilizing all the strategies, including spreading nasty, bitter tasting goop on my nails to prevent me from biting, going on special supplements to strengthen my nails and even getting fake tips from time to time. Alas, they are still short little stubs and I’ve accepted it.
But, that doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate and even genuflect towards those ladies who are always up with the latest nail trends, which get bolder and more bedazzled year upon year. I love french manicures with the little white tips. I love the bejeweled nails adorned with rhinestones. I love the shapes that are available now like stiletto nails and almond nails.
I saw this new Hibiscus nail trend the other day and it sent me swooning.
Tell me. What is rocking YOUR 5-senses this week? Let me know in the comments!