Reclaiming Your Bougie Spark
Rituals for Resetting When You're in a Funk
Let’s be real, mes chères—sometimes even the most fabulous among us feel bleak, bland, or like a total imposter. The kind of day where you look at your to-do list and think, "Who gave me this much power? I can barely make my bed, let alone guide someone to a life of chic abundance." But here’s the truth: even the most elegant lives hit the occasional dip.
So, when I feel like a bougie fraud (yes, it happens), here are the rituals that help me reset and restore my signature sparkle:
1. Gratitude, Darling. Always. The fastest way to interrupt a pity spiral? Gratitude. Say three things you're grateful for out loud—right now. It's nearly impossible to be bitter and bougie at the same time. I recently downloaded a gratitude app that gently reminds me to jot down something sweet, and even lets me share with friends (accountability, but make it charming).
2. Change Your Scenery Sometimes the mind just needs a new backdrop. Move to a sunnier room, step out onto the porch where the air feels different, or go sip espresso at your favorite neighborhood café. A subtle shift in environment can bring surprising relief and inspiration.
3. Ritual Reset: Shower, Skincare, Silence When my spirit is sagging, I find solace in an unplugged moment. A sauna session and a steamy shower, followed by my full skincare routine, robe tied just right, and soft candle lighting. It’s not just hygiene—it’s ceremony. Taking care of myself gives me space to quiet my mind and reset my energy.
4. Phone a Friend, Laugh Until You Cry There’s nothing like venting, laughing, and rehashing the absurdities of life with someone who gets it. It’s sometimes the best therapy (and it’s free). But never forget you can always schedule a session with your beloved therapist if your gal pals aren’t as easy to reach.
5. Move Your Body (Yes, Even a Little) I know, I know—it’s easier said than done. But walking, stretching, pilates, or even dancing barefoot to your favorite feel-good song can awaken the Bougie Brunette within. Your body sometimes just needs a reminder that it’s strong, capable, and your greatest tool and home.
6. Add a Dash of Whimsy Feeling gray? Get weird. I name my plants, my sourdough starters (shoutout to Docia and Dorthea 2.0), and even the bunny that frequents our backyard. These little quirks bring joy. Honestly, I need to name my pickle brine—something grumpy and tart, like Mrs. Dillweather or Sir Sourpuss.
7. Create Joyful Structure Make one small promise to yourself and keep it. Brew the tea. Fold the laundry. Tidy the vanity. Tuck in the tomatoes. These tiny rituals become the bows we tie on otherwise unraveled days. Sometimes a check-in buddy helps, too (my girlfriends and I text our goals for the day and cheer each other on when they’re accomplished—it’s nice to have someone on your side).
When I’m in the thick of it, these little moments don’t just help me survive—they bring me back to myself.
So, if you’re feeling foggy or far from fabulous, consider this your gentle nudge: pour something warm, open the window, and do one lovely thing for your spirit. You're still that girl, even on your worst day.
