Happy Feel-Good Friday! We made it. The week is done, the emails are (mostly) answered, and it’s finally time to exhale. I don’t know about you, but by the time Friday rolls around, my brain feels like a browser with 50 tabs open. That’s why I’ve started being intentional about curating my environment. I’m talking about the small, tangible things that instantly lower your shoulders and unclench your jaw.
Today, I’m sharing my latest “Feel-Good Finds”—a short but sweet list of discoveries that have been my lifeline this week. These aren’t just products; they are little rituals packaged in glass jars and Spotify links. Whether you need to soften the edges of a hard week or just want to treat yourself, I hope these bring you the same sense of peace they bring me.
Why “Soft and Grounded” Is the New Goal
We spend so much time trying to be productive, efficient, and “on.” But how much time do we spend trying to be soft? For me, feeling grounded isn’t about doing yoga for an hour (though that’s great); it’s about sensory inputs. What am I smelling? What am I hearing? What texture is against my skin?
Curating a collection of feel-good products is a form of self-care that requires zero effort once you have them. It’s about setting the stage for relaxation so that when you finally sit down, your body knows it’s safe to rest.
1. The Candle That Smells Like a Warm Hug
If you know me, you know I believe lighting a candle is the universal signal for “I am done with the world for today.” But not all candles are created equal. I’ve been on a hunt for the best candles for relaxation—scents that aren’t too perfumeyor overwhelming, but just smell like peace.
My current obsession is the “Amber & Moss” soy candle. It’s earthy, a little musky, and has this subtle warmth that fills the room without shouting. It smells like a cabin in the woods after rain, or wearing a cozy sweater on a crisp day.
Lighting this candle is my first step in shifting from “work mode” to “home mode.” The flicker of the flame and the grounding scent act as a sensory trigger, telling my nervous system that the rush is over. It’s amazing how a simple scent can transport you from a chaotic headspace to a grounded one in seconds.
2. The “Slow Down” Playlist on Spotify
Silence can sometimes be too loud when your mind is racing. That’s where a good grounding playlist comes in. I used to listen to upbeat pop to try and cheer myself up, but I realized that sometimes you need music that meets you where you are, not music that tries to force you to be happy.
I’ve curated a playlist I call “Soulful Fridays.” It’s a smooth blend of 90s soul and R&B—think Sade, Lauryn Hill, Boyz II Men, TLC, and of course, Usher setting the mood with those unmistakable vocals. These tracks bring that nostalgic, feel-good groove that makes you want to sway in your seat, sing along, and let every worry melt away. Perfect for slow dancing around your living room, cooking a comfort meal, or just letting the music wrap you up like a cozy blanket.
Music has a direct line to our emotions. By choosing tracks with a slower tempo and softer instrumentation, you can literally slow down your heart rate. It’s one of my favoriteself-care finds because it’s free and instantly accessible.
3. The Weighted Blanket of Skincare
Okay, this might sound dramatic, but hear me out. There is a specific face cream I’ve been using that feels like a weighted blanket for my skin. It’s a thick, rich barrier cream with ceramides and colloidal oatmeal.
After a long week, my skin often looks how I feel: tired and a little stressed. Applying this cream is a tactile experience. It’s thick, cooling, and instantly soothing. Taking two minutes to massage it into my face is a moment of pure connection with myself. It’s not just about vanity; it’s about tending to yourself with gentle hands.
When we talk about feel-good products, we often overlook texture. But touching something soft, creamy, or luxurious can be incredibly grounding. It brings you back into your body and out of your head.
Creating Your Own “Feel-Good” Kit
You don’t need to buy new things to find comfort. Look around your space. What do you own that makes you feel safe? Is it a worn-out hoodie? A specific mug? A book you’ve read five times?
Gather these things. Keep them close. When the world feels heavy, turn to these self-care finds to remind yourself that softness is always available to you.
I’d love to know what’s saving you this week. What’s your go-to candle? What song is on repeat? Tell me your feel-good favorites in the comments below. Let’s build a list of good things together.
And if you need some auditory healing right now, check out this
Soul R&B 90s Playlist on Spotify
to start your weekend off right.
Stay soft, friends.