Seven Senses

Seven Senses explores the intersection of creativity, personal growth, and mindfulness through various sensory experiences. It emphasizes embracing failure, the importance of self-expression, and finding joy in the present. It also discusses creativity in daily life, the value of community, and the significance of mindfulness and self-discovery.

Creativity Personal Growth Mindfulness Community Self-Discovery Artistic Expression Cultural Differences Mental Well-being Habits and Routines

The hottest Substack posts of Seven Senses

And their main takeaways

Found in Translation

439 implied HN points • 25 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Friendship Communication Society Traditions Relationships
  1. Friendship can look very different depending on where you are from. For example, friendships in the US can be more open but less deep than in many European cultures.
  2. The pace of life affects friendships too. In some places, like France, people take their time to enjoy meals and socializing, while in the US, there's often a hurry to get things done.
  3. Cultural norms shape how we see friendships. In some cultures, having a few close friends is valued, while in others, people might have many acquaintances but fewer deep connections.

Just Friends?

279 implied HN points • 01 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Friendship Gender Relationships Personal Growth Social norms
  1. Sexual attraction can complicate friendships between men and women. It's common for friends to wonder if there's potential for more than just friendship, especially when they're single.
  2. Crossing the friendship boundary to a romantic relationship can change things, but it doesn't mean the friendship is ruined. Many people find that their friendships can actually become even more meaningful after a romantic connection.
  3. Cultural and gender expectations often affect male friendships too. Guys might feel pressure to appear strong and independent, which can make it hard for them to express vulnerability and create deeper friendships.

The Greatest Love...

339 implied HN points • 19 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Friendship Relationships Society Personal Growth Cultural Commentary
  1. Friendship is really important and can be more lasting than romantic relationships. Friends give us support and joy throughout our lives.
  2. As we grow older, friendships change but can still be very meaningful. We might not spend as much time with friends, but the connections can get deeper with age.
  3. Friendship breakups can be really painful, and it's natural for friendships to move closer or further apart over time. It's okay for relationships to evolve and still hold love.

Ripe on Time

1718 implied HN points • 23 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Film Education
  1. It's okay to bloom at your own pace, just like flowers. Some people find their talents early, but many discover them later in life too.
  2. Having a nurturing environment helps talents emerge, but sometimes life events push us to explore our creativity when we least expect it.
  3. It's never too late to follow your dreams or discover new passions. Many successful people achieved their greatest milestones later in life, showing that persistence is key.

The Body as Referee

399 implied HN points • 21 Jul 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Physical health Self-care Emotional Wellbeing Stress management
  1. Our emotions and stress levels can really affect our bodies. What we feel inside can show up as physical pain or illness.
  2. It's important to listen to our bodies and recognize our limits. Sometimes, our bodies know we need a break even if our minds don't realize it.
  3. Balancing hard work with self-care can be tough. It's okay to take a pause and rest instead of always pushing ourselves to keep going.
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Beautiful Monsters

559 implied HN points • 29 Jun 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Art Theory Morality Censorship Cultural critique
  1. It's tough to separate an artist's bad behavior from their art. Many people wonder if enjoying a piece of art makes them part of the artist's wrong actions.
  2. Our choices in what art we support reflect our values. Boycotting artists and products can feel empowering, but true change often requires focusing on the larger systems that let harmful actions happen.
  3. It's important to recognize that artists might be both good and bad, like 'beautiful monsters'. This complexity challenges us to think deeply about our feelings towards their work and our own behavior.

Ceçi N’est Pas une Pipe

299 implied HN points • 13 Jul 24
🎭️ Culture Memory Family Tradition Objects
  1. Memories are tied to objects, making them more valuable than money. A simple mug can hold the warmth of shared moments.
  2. Sentimental value can sometimes defy the idea of non-attachment. It's natural to hold on to things that remind us of loved ones.
  3. Each object can tell a story from our past, connecting us to our experiences and the people we cherish.

Green-Colored Glasses

579 implied HN points • 01 Jun 24
🍲 Food & Drink Culinary Arts Event Planning Food culture Dining Experiences Seasonal Ingredients
  1. The event 'Tasting Color' was a creative dinner party focused on the color green, blending food, art, and nature. Guests enjoyed a themed vegetarian menu that highlighted seasonal ingredients, all visually connected by the color green.
  2. Collaborations were key to making the event successful. Partnerships with local chefs, ceramicists, and artists helped create a unique and immersive experience for guests, enhancing the sense of community and connection.
  3. The overall goal of the dinner was to foster human connection through shared experiences. Organizers felt joy seeing guests engaged in conversation and enjoying the moment, showcasing the power of creativity and collaboration.

“Fear is Excitement without the Breath”

299 implied HN points • 06 Jul 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Emotional Wellness Personal Growth Mindfulness Self-care
  1. Fear and excitement often go hand in hand. When something new and thrilling happens, it's common to feel both excited and a little scared at the same time.
  2. Breathing is key when dealing with the mix of excitement and anxiety. Taking deep breaths can help calm those overwhelming feelings and bring clarity.
  3. Both fear and excitement activate similar responses in our bodies. Learning to identify these feelings can help us manage them better and enjoy the positive parts more.

Secret Sea Sanctuary

299 implied HN points • 20 Jun 24
🏝 Travel Nature Vacation Exploration
  1. The Secret Sea Sanctuary is a beautiful and peaceful place in nature, perfect for reflection and creativity. It's a hidden gem that feels like home for those who visit.
  2. Returning to this special spot brings a sense of calm and inspiration. It helps with creative projects and allows for a deeper connection with nature.
  3. The area is quiet and desolate, making it unique and special. It's now gaining attention, but the peace it offers is still cherished by those who know it well.

Spot it? Need it.

339 implied HN points • 08 Jun 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Self-care Mindfulness Meditation Personal Growth Emotional Health
  1. When we notice something annoying in others, it often reflects what we dislike in ourselves. This can help us understand our own behaviors better.
  2. Our strong feelings toward certain traits in others could actually be hints of what we need more of in our own lives. We might need to embrace those traits instead of judging them.
  3. We often think in extremes, but finding a balance is key. Accepting both positive and negative traits can lead to healthier boundaries and a happier life.

Spin the Bottle, Roll the Dice

799 implied HN points • 09 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Adventure Food Travel Personal Experience Tradition
  1. Using randomness in your adventures can make them more exciting. By spinning a bottle and rolling dice, you can discover new places that you might not have chosen otherwise.
  2. You don’t need to travel far to have a memorable day out. A local adventure can be just as fulfilling when approached with open-mindedness and curiosity.
  3. Every encounter can add meaning to your day. Whether it's a chat with a local or visiting unique spots, these moments can contribute to an overall magical experience.

Screenless Sunday

599 implied HN points • 06 Apr 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Mindfulness Digital detox Self-care Personal Growth
  1. Taking a break from screens can help bring balance to our lives. Spending 24 hours without phones or TVs allows us to reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.
  2. Using our phones less can reduce anxiety and improve mental health. It's easy to grab our phones to fill moments of boredom, but it can take us away from enjoying real-life experiences.
  3. Mindfulness is key to finding balance with technology. By being intentional about screen time and engaging fully with what's happening around us, we can enjoy the benefits of both the digital world and our everyday lives.

Cloud Tears

339 implied HN points • 13 May 24
🎭️ Culture Emotions Travel Meditation Personal Stories Human behavior
  1. Many people feel heightened emotions while flying, which often leads to crying. This can happen due to the circumstances of travel or the effects of being at high altitudes.
  2. The environment on a plane can create a space for reflection and emotional release, making it feel like a unique time for personal processing.
  3. Flying reminds us of our lack of control in life, as we depend on others and external factors. It can be a moment of realization about our place in the universe.

Wiggly Consistency

879 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Creativity Habits Art Routine Personal Growth
  1. Building consistency in your daily habits can lead to positive changes in your life. Small, regular actions can help you feel more secure and grounded.
  2. Starting small with new habits is often better than going all in right away. Even two minutes of a new practice can help you develop a routine without feeling overwhelmed.
  3. Flexibility in your routines is important. Consistency shouldn't feel like a strict schedule; it should allow for moments when you can stray away without feeling like you've failed.

Ars Poetica

539 implied HN points • 25 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Poetry Art Music Literature Creative Expression
  1. Poetry connects us to deeper feelings and the divine. Unlike regular language, it speaks to our soul and can feel more complex or mysterious.
  2. Poetry can take many forms beyond written words, including art, sound, and even scents. This shows how flexible and expressive poetry can be.
  3. Everyday experiences can be tied into poetry, whether it's through textiles or video. This makes poetry a part of our daily lives and interactions.

We Contain Multitudes

1218 implied HN points • 27 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Hobbies Identity
  1. Pursuing hobbies is important for self-discovery and can reveal hidden talents and interests. It's a way to connect with ourselves beyond our work.
  2. Many of us fear exploring our diverse interests because we're worried about judgment or not fitting into a certain image. But embracing our contradictions can lead to growth and inspiration.
  3. Engaging in creative activities or hobbies can enhance our artistic expression and help us understand the world better, as seen in the lives of famous creators like Nabokov, Murakami, and Dickinson.

Home, Seek Home

979 implied HN points • 27 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Identity Community Art Travel Personal Growth
  1. Home can mean many things, like where we were born, grew up, or where we currently live. It can feel confusing and different for everyone.
  2. Finding home is often more about the connections we build with people and the experiences we share than a physical address.
  3. The search for home may never fully end, and it's a natural feeling for many. It's about creating a sense of belonging wherever we go.

Phantom Muse

1258 implied HN points • 28 Oct 23
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Creative Process Art history Inspiration
  1. Creative inspiration often feels like it's not from the artist, but rather comes through them. Many artists think of themselves as channels for a mysterious creative energy.
  2. Some artists, like Barbara Kingsolver and Hilma Af Klint, have connected with the spirits of past creators to gather inspiration. These experiences highlight the idea that creativity can link us to something greater.
  3. Our five senses, plus intuition, can help us connect with creative muses and the memories of loved ones. We can use rituals, art, and even food to honor these connections and explore our creativity.

Tasting Color: a Seven Senses feast

299 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🍲 Food & Drink Culinary Arts Event Planning
  1. There will be a unique dinner experience called 'Tasting Color' that combines food and art themed around the color green. It's designed to engage all seven senses.
  2. The event features a three-course meal prepared by a chef with notable experience, and all elements, from food to decor, will focus on the color green.
  3. Tickets are limited and there’s a discount for paid subscribers of the newsletter, making it a special opportunity for the community.

Fail again. Fail Better.

1778 implied HN points • 03 Jul 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Creativity Philosophy Personal Growth
  1. Failures can lead to new opportunities and personal growth. They often force us to rethink our priorities and can bring us closer to the people we truly connect with.
  2. Caring too much about outside approval can hold us back. It’s important to focus on what we love to do rather than what others expect from us.
  3. Facing failure is a part of the creative process. Embracing it can lead to genuine self-expression and a stronger sense of community.

New York, I love you but...

439 implied HN points • 19 Mar 24
🏝 Travel Cities Experiences Culture Lifestyle Nostalgia Food
  1. New York can feel like an amazing but exhausting place to live. People often work multiple jobs just to get by, and the high cost of living can wear you down.
  2. Even though New York is a unique and vibrant city, it can create a sense of emotional detachment. Many residents build an outer shell to handle the constant sensory overload and daily struggles.
  3. Leaving New York can feel like a failure to some, as it’s often seen as giving up on a dream. However, recognizing when you need a break or a change is important for your well-being.

Money! Money! Money...?

1318 implied HN points • 30 Aug 23
💰 Finance Wealth Money Economics Art Value
  1. Money plays a huge role in our lives, but many people avoid discussing it. Ignoring money can make it control us even more.
  2. Creatives often feel pressured to work without proper compensation, believing art should be 'pure.' This leads to undervaluing their work and struggling financially.
  3. Money can reflect our values and desires when used intentionally. It’s important to see it as a tool for expressing what matters most to us instead of something evil.

A Haircut Can Save a Life

479 implied HN points • 02 Mar 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Self-care Therapy Community support Interpersonal Relationships
  1. Small actions can have a big impact on people's lives, just like a simple haircut. Listening and being present for someone can truly make a difference during tough times.
  2. We often underestimate our influence on others. Kind words and thoughtful gestures can lift someone's spirits and change their day, sometimes even their life.
  3. You don't need to do grand things to create change. Our everyday interactions can have meaningful ripple effects that connect us more deeply with others.

Monoganimals

519 implied HN points • 17 Feb 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Illustration Zines Visual art Creativity Workshops
  1. There's a new mini zine called 'Monoganimals' that features seven animals known for being monogamous. It's a fun way to learn about these unique animal relationships.
  2. The zine is hand-bound and illustrated, making it a special treat for subscribers. If you've provided your mailing address, you should receive it soon!
  3. There's also a creative workshop series happening, which you can join if interested. It's a chance to explore creativity with others, and recordings are available if you missed the previous sessions.

Paper Pixels

1039 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Community Expression Creativity
  1. The author celebrates a year of creatively expressing themselves through their project, Seven Senses. They found a way to combine various aspects of their artistic identity without feeling restricted.
  2. They emphasize the importance of community and connection, expressing gratitude towards their readers and supporters. This support has motivated them to keep creating and exploring new themes.
  3. To mark the one-year milestone, the author is launching a zine that highlights their work and experiences over the past year, showing a desire for a deeper connection through tangible art.

Everyone Has a Plan Until…

179 implied HN points • 20 May 24
🎭️ Culture Arts Lifestyle Travel Food Personal Growth
  1. Life is full of surprises, and plans often change unexpectedly. It's important to be flexible and adapt when things don't go as you hoped.
  2. Sometimes, when you let go of strict plans, you can discover new and delightful experiences. Embracing the unexpected can lead to happy surprises.
  3. Remember that not everything beautiful in life is planned. Many wonderful moments happen when you least expect them.

Desert Bloom & Howling Moon

239 implied HN points • 14 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Traditions Spirituality Ceremonies Nature Community
  1. La Limpia is a cleansing ceremony using traditional methods like eggs to diagnose and release negative energies. It involves participants moving rhythmically and engaging their senses.
  2. The gathering in the Mojave desert allowed friends to support each other through grief while enjoying the beauty of nature and the simplicity of shared meals and conversations.
  3. Experiencing the vast night sky in the Mojave desert adds a magical element to the healing process, helping participants connect with the universe and find joy in renewal after loss.

Ichigo Ichie

479 implied HN points • 20 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Language Meditation Awareness Experience Art
  1. Language has a huge impact on how we see the world and connect with others. Some words from other languages describe feelings or actions that English can't fully capture.
  2. The Japanese term 'Ichigo Ichie' means 'one lifetime, one encounter.' It reminds us that every moment is unique and we should appreciate the present.
  3. We often get lost in thinking about the future and miss out on what is happening right now. Practicing mindfulness can help us enjoy our everyday experiences more.

Art in an Emergency

739 implied HN points • 04 Nov 23
🎭️ Culture Art Music Dance Spirituality Healing
  1. Art, like dance and music, helps heal our spirit and emotions. Many cultures have known this for a long time.
  2. Holding on to emotions can cause physical discomfort or pain in our bodies. It's important to process these feelings through creative activities.
  3. Making time to dance, sing, or be still can greatly improve our well-being. Connecting with these activities can revive our energy and joy.

Kissing Ram Dass

579 implied HN points • 16 Dec 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Spirituality Meditation Eastern philosophy Psychedelics Personal Growth
  1. Ram Dass was a major spiritual teacher who introduced many people to Eastern philosophies and meditation. His journey started in Harvard and took him to India, where he met his guru.
  2. A personal encounter with Ram Dass felt like meeting an old friend. It showed that connection and love can have a strong impact, even in brief moments.
  3. His legacy continues through his teachings, reminding us that sometimes the way we make people feel is more important than what we say or do.

Shedding Skin, Starting Anew

799 implied HN points • 07 Oct 23
🎭️ Culture Art Creativity Meditation Senses Wellness
  1. A new weekly series called 'Present Sense' will share various recommendations for engaging all five senses and mindfulness. It'll include suggestions for books, food, and nature activities.
  2. Meditation is emphasized as a key practice for improving focus and awareness. There will be guided sessions to help everyone try it out, no matter their experience level.
  3. Fresh experiences, like tasting fresh beans or visiting new places, can greatly enhance our enjoyment of life. Paying attention to these moments helps us appreciate the beauty around us.

Genuine Gratitude

619 implied HN points • 22 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mindfulness Gratitude Meditation Self-care Emotional Health
  1. Gratitude is not just a feeling; it's an active choice we make. It helps us appreciate the good even when things feel tough.
  2. Practicing gratitude can shift our focus from negative thoughts to positive ones. It helps us notice the little joys in our lives.
  3. Making time for gratitude, like journaling or reflecting on small moments, can enhance our overall well-being. It's a habit that continues to grow the more we practice it.

Fast & Slow

439 implied HN points • 13 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Creativity Art Literature Meditation Workshops
  1. Finding a balance between speed and deliberation in creative work can lead to surprising results. Sometimes, working quickly helps your intuition shine through.
  2. Taking time to focus on quality and detail in creative projects is valuable, but it can also limit your potential. It's important to stay aware of when this focus becomes restrictive.
  3. Creativity often lies in the middle ground between slow and fast approaches. Embracing both can lead to a richer creative experience.

How to Make Love Stay?

359 implied HN points • 10 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Relationships Self-discovery Mental health Personal Growth Love
  1. Love requires effort and honesty to grow. It's important to reflect on our own qualities and flaws in a relationship rather than blaming our partner.
  2. Real love changes us and teaches us about ourselves. Over time, we can find comfort in familiarity while still allowing love to evolve.
  3. Instead of searching for a perfect partner, we should focus on creating and nurturing perfect love together. This is the key to making love last.

Invisible Threads

359 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Creativity Art Collaboration Community Philosophy
  1. Sometimes, we have the same ideas as others at the same time. This can feel frustrating when it comes to creative work, but maybe it's a sign that we're all connected.
  2. Many great ideas in history were discovered by different people independently. This shows that creativity often works the same way, where themes arise collectively rather than just from one person.
  3. If multiple people express the same idea, it doesn't mean it's less original. It might actually show the idea's strength and how it resonates with many, much like a chorus in a song.

The Value of a Gift

419 implied HN points • 09 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Relationships DIY Meditation Creativity
  1. Gifts should not just be about money; they represent our care, attention, and creativity. The true value of a gift comes from the thoughtfulness behind it.
  2. Making gifts yourself can be more meaningful and enjoyable. It helps to reduce the pressure and consumerism often associated with gift-giving.
  3. Connecting with loved ones through gifting creates special moments and can deepen relationships. The happiness in giving comes from sharing experiences rather than the price of the gift.

Joy or Perfection?

479 implied HN points • 11 Nov 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Mental health Self-Improvement Mindfulness Emotional Wellbeing Personal Development
  1. Choosing joy over perfection can lead to a happier life. Perfectionism often steals our joy and makes us feel disconnected from others.
  2. It's okay to struggle and not be perfect at things. Embracing the learning process can bring more fulfillment than focusing solely on being the best.
  3. Our past experiences of feeling inadequate can affect us today. Accepting our imperfections allows us to find happiness and connection again.