My Current Obsessions: Books, Candles, and Comforts
Lately, I’ve been finding joy in the smallest things — the quiet rituals that make life feel slow, intentional, and warm. Whether it’s the smell of a new candle burning in the corner of my room, curling up with a book that challenges how I see the world, or indulging in simple comforts that make home feel sacred — these little obsessions are what anchor me.
This season, I’ve been leaning into softness and depth: surrounding myself with warmth while doing the inner work that comes with healing, learning, and growing.
1. The Books That Have My Heart Right Now
My current reads have been reshaping the way I understand identity, history, and self-love. They’re not light stories — they’re soul work.
A few that have been sitting on my nightstand:
“No Disrespect” by Sister Souljah — raw, unapologetic, and full of truth. It’s both a mirror and a wake-up call, especially for anyone navigating love, womanhood, and self-respect in a world that often misunderstands both.
“The 1619 Project” by Nikole Hannah-Jones — a powerful reminder of how history shapes our present. Every essay feels like reclaiming a piece of truth that was always ours.
“Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome” by Dr. Joy DeGruy — an essential read on generational trauma and resilience. It’s emotional, educational, and healing all at once.
Each of these books reminds me that growth isn’t always soft or pretty — sometimes it’s uncomfortable, but it’s sacred work.
2. The Candles That Set the Mood
My candle collection has become a love language. Every scent holds its own memory, its own energy:
Vanilla Café by Bath & Body Works — smells like freshly brewed coffee with a hint of vanilla cream; perfect for journaling mornings or slow Sundays.
Cinnamon Rolls by Sweet Water Décor — warm, sugary, and nostalgic — like walking into your grandma’s kitchen on a winter morning.
Pistachio Macaron by La Jolie Muse — sweet, cozy, and nostalgic, like a bakery on a rainy afternoon,
Lighting a candle feels like pressing pause — a quiet reminder to breathe, to be present, and to romanticize the little moments.
3. The Comforts That Keep Me Grounded
These are the simple luxuries that make me feel cared for — small reminders that softness is strength:
Velvet throw pillows that make my bed feel like a cloud.
Iced caramel lattes in cute glass cups — because aesthetics are a form of self-care.
Soft playlists (Frank Ocean, Jorja Smith, SiR, Emanuel) that sound like golden hour — smooth, introspective, and effortlessly soulful.
Fresh sheets and clean laundry — the quiet joy of starting over.
Comfort, for me, is about creating spaces — physical and emotional — that remind me of peace.
As I grow, I’ve realized that comfort and consciousness can coexist. I can love candles and cozy spaces while diving deep into books that challenge my perspective. I can be soft and aware, gentle and grounded.
These are the little things — and big truths — that are shaping who I’m becoming.