Hello friend,
February feels like a replay of January, doesn’t it? But this upcoming month, it's all about settling in and being present. And with Chinese New Year just around the corner, if you missed the last wave of fresh starts, hop on the back of the Fire Horse!
This time, bring some support! There's no need to go solo; by deepening our connections, we can feel comfortable asking for help when we need it.
Now, about Valentine’s Day: it’s everywhere, and honestly, we’re a bit over it. Fortunately, February is also Friendship Month, so we can spread the love across all types of relationships. Either way, let’s focus on love as presence, not just performance. After all, International Care Day reminds us that much of the hard work and care happens quietly and often goes unnoticed.
Isn’t it precious to show care for our loved ones or those in need? We may not change the world overnight, but a few small random acts of kindness can make someone’s day and energize both sides. It’s truly inspiring to see how people can get closer through support and kindness!
Speaking of which, we would highly appreciate your feedback on the newsletter – don't be shy!
So put on your favorite reading slippers, and let's get into our delicious banana bites together!
Blue Banana Bites this February
TL;DR (jump here if it’s too overwhelming)
SOUND BITE
Rock the Routine
Groundhog Day signals that hibernation is over. So, for the sake of looping routines and repetition, it's highly recommended to have “a tasty beverage and rock out for 20 minutes every night" with this clip from the Groundhog Day movie.
PRODUCTIVITY BITE
How to Help Your Loved One Thrive
Whether your loved one is tackling a big project, starting a business, or aiming to nail that 10-push-up routine, you can be their ultimate cheerleader! Here’s how to support your special someone in reaching their goals:
Identify Their Needs: Tune in to how they feel most supported. Do they thrive on action, encouraging words, or just a little nudge? Create a non-judgemental space where they can feel safe sharing their vision.
Craft a Cozy Environment: Does your loved one need a calm space free from sensory overload? Do they need reminders to take breaks or prefer zero interruptions? Make sure it’s just right!
Unwind Together: Enjoy some quality time by going for a walk, cooking together, or doing a jigsaw puzzle! Anything that helps take their mind off things will do wonders.
Understand Their Struggles: Everyone wants to feel seen, especially when chasing their dreams. Instead of a simple "You’ll be fine," acknowledge their challenges and explore ways to overcome task paralysis together.
Collaborate: Do they need a body double, an accountability partner, or a prioritization buddy? Team up and tackle those goals side by side.
Celebrate the Small Wins: How do they like to be rewarded? Whether it’s a night out, a treat from their favorite bakery, or a relaxing massage, nothing feels better than knowing someone truly cares.
BOOK BITES
Stay Calm and Keep Reading
Struggling to keep reading? We totally get it! Why not schedule your reading time? Add some soothing white or brown noise for the perfect backdrop! Prepare to immerse yourself in an adventure of words and imagination!
Random Acts of Kindness
Danny Wallace
We might adore the story behind this book more than the book itself. Danny Wallace accidentally became the leader of the "Karma Army" while brainstorming ways to spread positivity, inviting others to perform acts of kindness on Good Friday. In "Random Acts of Kindness," he embarks on an engaging adventure, showing how and small gestures can create a ripple effect of goodwill!
The Dance of Connection
Harriet Lerner
Just wow! Therapist Harriet Lerner takes us on a psychological and anecdotal journey through the hurdles of all kinds of relationships, highlighting the magic of effective communication. She champions vulnerability and honesty as powerful tools for transformation when we're drowning in emotions and encourages us to approach conflicts with empathy to create deeper connections.
TOOL BITES
Connections to Build On
Always in Season
Let's be real: mental health is a year-round priority! And 7 Cups is like having a pocket-sized therapist ready to listen 24/7! This app connects you to trained listeners and licensed therapists who are eager to chat, offering emotional support for free. With a splash of self-help resources, it’s the perfect blend of therapy and a friendly ear, with an awesome community behind it.
Get a Grip on Your Inner World
Stoic is like having a wise friend by your side to help you navigate life’s twists and turns. Blending ancient Stoic philosophy with modern mindfulness, this app offers guided journaling, mood tracking, and thought-provoking exercises. It’s designed to help you build resilience and find balance, making it easier to tackle whatever life throws your way!
You’re Not Alone
Dubbii is the body doubling app created by our favorite ADHD couple who totally understand the challenges of staying organized! Featuring lively follow-along videos and engaging live body doubling sessions, it helps you track your progress and celebrate every success. It’s all about making productivity a fun and uplifting experience!
Light That Bond
Do you want to get (emotionally!) close, closer, and closest with your partner, friend, colleague, or a stranger you just met? Then Get Closer is the app you're looking for! Originally a card game, you can either spark a light conversation or dive into the deep chats you've been craving. Happy connecting!
HOT BITE OF THE MONTH
Get Your Slides On: Something We Love
Tired of the same old drinking games and "Never Have I Ever"? We brainstormed some fun activities for a friends' night to gain new insights. So, we jumped on the PowerPoint wagon and came up with our own themes for hilarious nights together.
How It Works:
Each friend creates a PowerPoint presentations on either their own topic for the night or for someone else. You can even add a competition for the funniest or best presentation.
We’d love to share our ideas with you:
What conspiracy theory would you/your friend fall for, and why? (We may have hyperfocused a bit too long on last month's Wikipedia topics and the list of conspiracy theories)
What’s your/your friend's favorite quirk, and how is it useful to the world?
What movie or series character would you/your friend be, and why?
What could be your weirdest prediction for your/your friend's future?
What are your highlight moments with your friends, and why? Include some insider jokes!
How would a friend's dating profile PowerPoint look?
What is the most useless yet fascinating piece of knowledge you possess due to hyperfocus?
Enjoy the shenanigans!
Awareness Bite
Need a reason to gather your favorite people around a hot cup of coffee? Discuss this month's awareness bites and share some laughs! The orange couch and a "Smelly Cat" interpreter are optional!
TL;DR – Too Long; Didn’t Read
Hibernate No More: Get into the loop of your routine with Phil's Solo Boogie in the movie classic Groundhog Day.
Get That Karma: Find out how you can be the best cheerleader to support your loved one’s growth.
Books for Connections: Why we love paper that speaks to us, featuring:
Random Acts of Kindness by Danny Wallace
The Dance of Connection by Harriet Lerner, PhD
Tools to Build On: Whether you're all in for self-reflection this month or want to emphasize support and closeness, we've got you covered. Featuring:
7 Cups with online therapy resources
Stoic with guided journaling
Dubbii with body doubling options
Get Closer with questions to deepen your relationships
PowerPoint Pandora: A different way to meet your friends through themed PowerPoint presentations.
Awareness Meeting Point: This month's awareness days and months are all about coming together and getting closer.
