Gentle Suggestions // July

I've been gone for far too long and saying that I haven't had the time to sit down to write would be a lie. Truth is, I haven't had the motivation to talk about anything or to create anything. If anyone has any links to styling or photography gigs, I would really love to sign up! For now, I've compiled a bunch of suggestions I really found useful since the last time I did one of these.

PHOTOGRAPHER SUGGESTION

Karen Dias

"The small state of Haryana in northern India has the worst sex ratio in India at 879 females per 1000 males. It is also one of the lowest in the world. Haryana is also known for caste and sexual violence against women and female infanticide, rape, trafficking and domestic violence are common. But, a small and scattered community of girls are breaking stereotypes and winning international laurels in sports ranging from hockey to boxing, wrestling to football and rifle shooting. In a place where women are rarely allowed outside the house unaccompanied and wearing ‘western clothes’ and playing physical sports are a complete no-no, Haryana’s young girls are qualifying and winning in the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, National Games among various other national and international championships. However, the path to pursuing a sport of their choice comes with great struggle. Most of the girls belong to poor families and cannot afford the equipment, diet and upkeep required to play professionally. Most girls can’t even dream of having access to psychologists or medical facilities that their western counterparts have access to. Even though, there is a great push from the Haryana government to develop sports in the state, sporting facilities have a long way to go and bureaucracy makes it harder for some players to get access to meal schemes, prize money, etc. Some girls even mention how the prize money for girls is less than the boys for the same sports. A lot of the players don’t even have access to toilets or changing rooms." - Karen Dias Photography

In Karen Dias' exploration of society and culture in India, she manages to effectively capture the struggles, joy and everyday moments that only good photographers can. I love Karen's ability to make contrasting and impactful moments of blurry focus a staple in her style. When reviewing her artistic exploration, every story collection has a message she is anxious to reveal and although she is passionate about her subjects she does not force a perspective on you. 

See more of her photography here: http://karendiasphotography.com

Instagram

BRAND SUGGESTION

Gorman Clothing

Gorman clothing is a beautiful Australian-based ethical and sustainable clothing company. Their ability to express their interpretations of modern-day life and artists in print is amazing. The only thing I'd change about them is the look of their website. 

Shop here, follow them here. 

SONG SUGGESTION

Something Stupid - Andy Williams

Ah, Andy Williams...this is a love letter from me to you, old man. The way you sing makes me feel tingly all over and your voice never fails to make others look over in jealousy. Here's to more late nights together, dancing in my bedroom. 

Love, your avid listener. 

HABIT SUGGESTION Breathing
When it comes to stress, we're all experienced. I've found that the easiest way for me to deal with pressure and an overwhelming sensation to run and hide is to breathe. When you're about to break, take deep breaths to calm your spirit. 

1) Start by stopping what you're doing at the moment and close your eyes. 

2) Take slow and deep breaths until you start feeling your heart beating steadily. 

3) Let go of your thoughts for that few minutes and then resume whatever you're doing again. 

I hope you found my long overdue Gentle Suggestions helpful. Please let me know if you have anything to contribute as well!