May 2026 Mindful Moments Digest
May was a month of reflection, preparation, and appreciating the beauty around us. From slowing down to smell the roses to planning for future adventures, each mindful moment offered an opportunity to pause and find meaning in our daily travels through life.
This month we explored themes of sustainability, economic impact, hidden gems, and the importance of being present. We also shared practical tips on saving for travel, managing allergies while enjoying spring blooms, and the joy of collecting meaningful mementos from our adventures.
Below is the complete collection of all 30 mindful moments from May 2026:
May 1: Getting Caught Up
When you go away for long stretches, you have lots to catch up on. Mail pilled up with important papers reminding you that just because you were on vacation doesn’t mean the world was at rest. Remember to check your licence for renewal date, credit cards that are close to expiration and file your taxes. Making sure you are caught up with all your identifications, registrations and legal obligations will give you peace of mind. Then you are ready for the next adventure.
Yours updated, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 2: Time With Family
Today we take a car trip to visit our daughter. We pack snacks, fill the tank and download our favourite podcasts/ audio books for the drive. The sun is shinning which always makes driving and sight seeing more enjoyable. Who knows maybe today we go wild, let our hair down and crank up the tunes. Wherever your road trips may lead, I hope you take time to visit your loved ones along the way! « 🎼Get your motor running, headed on the hwy… 🎼 »
Yours filled with love, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 3: Road Trip
Taking a road trip can be a great adventure. It is important that you plan ahead to ensure a pleasant experience. We always bring a cooler bag, our travel mugs, with a coffee to go. Having a charcuterie on the road is our favourite. Easy to drive and eat at the same time. To pack it we use this snackle box.
Download your favourite podcast, I really enjoy The Diary Of A CEO on YouTube. Make sure you have a spare tire and a first aid kit and a blanket.
Be safe out there and enjoy the open road.
Yours adventurously, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 4: Opening the Cottage
Getting ready to open the cottage is an exciting time. I love spending time so close to the beach. Always a task to divide up food and spices to bring from home to cottage. I really like cooking and it is important that I have a bit of everything so that we can enjoy our cottage meals. There is always cleaning to do and a good workout taking out all the outdoor furniture. In the end it is all worth it, for all those cottage life days. Let the cottage season begin!
Yours up to the task, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 5: Booking Ahead
When booking your flights we usually book well ahead of the departure date. We choose the cheapest flight but opt for comfort fare. Comfort fare allows for extra leg room and luggage. Often flight times will change and then you get to chose another option if you like. Having flexibility in time is a luxury, however if you can make it work better for you it can really make your trip more enjoyable. Who doesn’t like saving money and choices.
Yours saving you money, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 6: Keeping Fit
I can not say I enjoy running, however the euphoria I feel after a run is magical. Keeping fit allows me to go places comfortably without worry. Fitness is something I hold deep to my heart, without it there would be no travel. Today I challenged myself to a run. I haven’t ran a 5 km in a few years but thought , let’s see if I still have it. It was raining so I got on the treadmill and got started. I tried not to push too hard too fast. I put the tunes on and I ran, I wanted to stop before the 5 minute mark but knew I could do it so kept going, after 10 minutes I found a good rhythm and my body adjusted. My earbuds let me know I had a pretty good pace for a first run, so at 20 minutes I upped the pace and again at 25 and then at 28 for a pretty fast last km. Finishing with 31 minutes, I feel great! 👍🏽 Go do something that scares you take that first step! It just might lead to a love of something new. It may come in handy for those close connections at the airport. 😜
Yours gratified Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 7: The Sun Also Rises
Waking up early is the best part of the day! I get up, I prepare a coffee and watch the sun rise to begin another amazing day filled with promise. I sit in quiet listening to the birds chirp and contemplate what lies ahead. Will today be filled with activity or will I chose a calm day? I get to decide and in the still of the morning the possibilities are endless. Mornings are my favourite part of the day, they belong to me. In those moments I am there in contemplation, imagining, dreaming of what can be. It’s the best time to be mindful, my body in top form after a restful nights sleep. I am ready for the day ahead, just like the sun rising and getting brighter, I too feel more awake. Let’s do this!
Yours awakened, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 8: Taking a Class
When you are away on vacation or even home, take a class. You can learn a new skill or hone in on an old skill. There are so many great classes. This year I did a few craft classes while away, pottery and macrame. It is a great way to learn local cuisine, language or even dance. Get involved, meet new people it is always enjoyable to learn something new, you might just like it!
Yours adventurous, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 10: Mother’s Day
Take time today to celebrate mothers. Ones that are alive, and those who have passed. Today I am lucky enough to have my mom and my daughter close by in distance. We will have some time all together today and I am so grateful. I cherish these moments. Traveling can bring distance between families, so when you get the chance celebrate together. Whether you are close or whether you are far, take a moment to rejoice that we all are here because of a mother that held us before we could hold ourselves up! Happy Mother’s Day to all.
Yours lovingly, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 11: Live Music
There is something about live music that touches the soul. Maybe it’s the vibrations, maybe it’s the passion in the eyes of the musician. Whatever it is, I am always in search for a bit of live music on our travels. Sometimes it comes in the form of a piano in the lobby of a hotel, other times a busker in a park. Each time I come across musicians it fills me with an energy that wasn’t there before. Have you ever chanced upon a concert that you were able to enjoy for free? Leaving a small tip with someone who shares their gift is customary, but not always needed. People playing music for other people is an act of service a true work of the heart! If you enjoy their music 🎶 you should compensate them for their gift to you if you are able to. Some of my favourite memories include a chance happening of music playing for people to come together in joyful listening.
Yours in tune, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 11: Expect the Unexpected
This morning an extra early wake up call. Taking the open road for the cottage. Today is opening day, and we need to be there extra early for Internet delivery. We were told that delivery time would be between eight and five today, so packed up from the night before, off we go.
We arrive early and got started by unpacking, then I got all the furniture set up outside, Mr. Mindful Traveller meanwhile got the water started. This requires crawling under the cottage, just to find out that there was a pipe burst over the winter. A mud pit under the cottage has developed, creating an unexpected slip and slide.
We have come to expect the unexpected, every year there is always a surprise or two. This year all issues have been water related, last year it was uninvited critters that tried to move in.
A little extra time and the pipe is fixed and we have water hallelujah! The sun is shining today, it is a great day to get the cottage open for another season.
Yours gratefully with water, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 12: Pushing Boundaries
When you travel do you push your boundaries? Do you try new foods, maybe hike a mountain or sing in a karaoke bar? It can be exhilarating to push ourselves beyond the limits we have set. I am afraid of heights, however I often push past this fear to see new spectacular sights, and I highly recommend you do the same. Some of my favourite travelling moments are when I push past my fears. I’ve climbed mountains, I’ve zipped lined and I have learned that I can do so much more than I ever thought possible. I’ve climbed the stairs of monuments until my legs shook but it has always been worth it. You can take small steps but always push yourself forward. Seize the day!
Yours courageously, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 13: Getting Protein on the Run
I have recently found a new product that I love. Protein powder can taste chalky, but not this one:
- Canada: Good Protein: All-in-One Shakes on Amazon.ca
- USA: Good Protein: All-in-One Shakes on Amazon.com
I love all of the flavours and truly enjoy my protein shakes daily.
One of my favourites lately is the chai latte. For a special treat I use lactose free milk, (if you are vegan you can use almond milk) with a banana, a scoop of chai latte protein powder and ice then blend, make it as thick or thin as you like by reducing the amount of liquid. Could be the consistency of ice cream or a milkshake.
This reminds me of a treat I have when I’m in Puerto Vallarta Mexico at a restaurant called Elixir Spot. I often order the yummy chai. If ever you get to Puerto Vallarta put this little hidden gem on your list.
Yours protein packed,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 14: Local Cuisine
Trying new food while travelling is a must. What is their local delicacy? It’s always worth a try. Some of the best foods I have ever experienced have come from trying the local cuisine.
Tacos and churros in Mexico, sardines and pastel de nata in Portugal and croissants and macaron in France just to name a few. Those are the well known favourites in these countries but when I need help figuring out what to eat, I often ask the waiter what their favourite meal on the menu. I often order that if it fits my dietary needs.
Sometimes I’m pleasantly surprised and sometimes I’m not convinced, but either way it’s an adventure and I don’t starve.
Yours with hunger pangs,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 15: Simulating Travel Through Food and Music
Exotic cuisine can sometimes be fun to simulate at home. While planning a trip I sometimes will look up a few recipes from the region we are to visit and make them. This adds to the excitement of travel.
Sitting down to good food and discussing our upcoming trip is always a mindful experience. We play music from the region to add to the evening and try to also have a local drink prepared.
Could Italy be next 🇮🇹 ?
Ciao,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 16: Local Markets
Getting the chance to acquaint yourself with the local markets is a great way to see the place your visiting. There is always so much life at the market, vendors selling their goods, families getting stocked up for the week. It’s a great way to try new things. Many food markets around the World let you taste before you buy. The flavours you get to enjoy can be endless.
Markets can vary, some cater to more of the locals, these ones are my favourite. I love watching people going about their day, doing what they have done repeatedly for many years, bartering when appropriate. Finding the best produce and freshest fish!
Enjoy your next trip to the market, slow down and people watch it is a personal favourite activity and does not cost anything but your time.
Reflectively yours,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 17: Multi-purpose Packing
I recently had a discussion with a family member that had me thinking of what I allow myself to take on vacation. Luggage has to be lightweight and I realized that I pick items that double duty. From a foldable Osprey backpack that helps for day trips and grocery purchasing even triples as a pickleball bag on occasion, to a scarf that is multipurpose blanket on plane can be worn over the shoulders for entering places that need to cover my head. I pack with purpose. What do I absolutely need and what can do more then one job.
In recent years I have noticed that shoes were the bulkiest and choosing the proper footwear is essential, I try to wear runners on the plane I have a pair of sandals that are sporty with straps for hiking but can double to wear with dresses if needed and all shoes must be cobblestone worthy. Winter clothing is always the bulkiest and I try to pick sweaters that are lightweight that can be worn in a multitude of situations. Quick dry clothing is also an essential.
What do you pack? Have you given much thought to the double duty of what is worthy?
Pensively yours,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 19: Street Art
I love street art! It can be amazing bursts of colour in a landscape that could otherwise be drab and dull. Street art is authentic and vibrant, it brings life to a city. Everyplace I go I look for it and I take photos. Walking through new cities and towns is always a treasure hunt for me. Galleries are beautiful but street art is out there in the open for all to enjoy and it’s free. I often wonder if it was commissioned I know some are, or is this an artist that just needed to release their pent up creativity. Whatever the reason I so enjoy the gracious displays. Take time on your next trip to check out some of the local talent!
Your art enthusiast,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 20: Sustainable Travel: Social and Cultural Impact
When you travel do you take time to learn about the people, the history and the culture? Do you know and respect the local customs? Each of us can be anthropologists in another country exploring without impacting or judging. We don’t always understand, the ways in which others interact. Is it polite to bow when you meet someone, is it ok to shake their hand? What about looking someone in the eye. We have our own social rules of politeness but not everywhere share these rules. Slurping your soup in some places is a sign that you really enjoy the soup, in other places it is frowned upon. It is important to have contextual knowledge so that you do not offend the people of a country that has so graciously let you visit. Find out a little bit about the place you are going. It will make you feel more prepared and relaxed. Do woman need to have their head covered? If this is not something you are willing to do, then maybe this is not the place for you. It can alter your travel plans and that’s ok. Knowing your limits helps you to choose places that will meet your independent needs. While in Europe for instance many places require arms to be covered and woman dressed modestly packing a scarf and a long skirt will allow you to explore these places at ease.
When we take time to learn and not judge we truly get to enjoy our travels a little bit more. We no longer sweat the small stuff.
Yours sincerely,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 21: When Life Gets Difficult: Who is Invited to Your Table?
This week has been filled with unexpected events. You really learn who comes together when things go wrong. Family and friends are the greatest form of strength and connection a person can have. You are lucky if you have a few that show up in times of trouble. These milestone moments are the moments that define the future. Regardless of what went wrong in your life. May I remind you of the strength and resilience you have. I take the time today to remind you that you are loved and that you are surrounded by good people.
Who do you invite to your table? If you would invite them for the good moments, you should be able to rely on them for the difficult moments too? Reach out to your people they will be your guide and they will get you through anything. The path was never meant to walk alone.
A big thanks to all of my family and friends for their support! Take notice of who you allow to your table they are your strength with them you can get through anything!
Yours supported,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 22: Sustainable Travel: Mindful Excursions
When you choose excursions are you mindful of your footprint or the impact you leave behind? Excursions affect ecosystems and can negatively impact the local habitat or wildlife. For instance whale watching can be a great boat excursion if you chose a company that respects the wildlife. Do you research the companies when you choose tour companies? We all have a responsibility to keep the land in which we visit safe for all who inhabit the space. By just taking a few moments to think about the impact we make we can make better choices.
If you want to swim in a cenote or do a turtle release it is important to wear a sunscreen that protects your skin but also protects the sea creatures. We really like Kinesys it works well and is better for the environment.
- Canada: KINeSYS Light Mango Scented Clear Spray Sunscreen on Amazon.ca
- USA: KINeSYS Light Mango Scented Clear Spray Sunscreen on Amazon.com
Travelling is fun and taking time to enjoy nature is a must on all your travels. Enjoy knowing that you are mindful and your impact minimum. Small steps by lots of people makes a difference.
Yours hopefully optimistic,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 23: New Beginnings
Today was a day of endings and new beginnings. Family and friends came together unified for a common goal. We are reminded once again of the friends that become family. The people that put their own needs and time aside in order to help someone in need. I woke up knowing it was going to be a difficult day. However the sunrise this morning was incredible and reminded me that new beginnings are always possible. Today was a day of strength empowerment, and resiliency, where we decided our well being was more important than being bitter. A day that we can look back on and be reminded of the courage that was shown. Life may throw curve balls but we are never striking out! As far as I see the home run is just around the corner. I truly believe that when life is difficult we grow and we have space to appreciate the best moments. We have space for the new relationships and our heart that may have been broken, heals even stronger the next time we are ready. So farewell to the untrustworthy and I welcome integrity with open arms.
Yours helping heal the heart,
Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 24: Look For the Beauty
There is beauty all around us if we slow down and learn to appreciate it. Early mornings for me are always met with marvel. It is like everything slows down. You have the time to take it in. Why do we feel so wired all the time? Could simply taking a few moments to smell the roses help slow things down? I believe it can.
Try to take the time everyday to rejoice in the beauty all around. Maybe it’s a sunrise just outside the window, a bouquet of flowers or simply a realization that you are going to be better than ever, that is the beauty within. I encourage you to slow down even if just for a moment stop look around. Where is the hidden beauty in your life?
Beautifully yours, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 25: Sustainability: Economic Impact
When we travel it is a good idea to understand our economic impact on the places we are visiting. What are the norms when it comes to things like tipping and how does the money we spend impact the economic sustainability of the region? Economic growth does not always mean progress. Money has become its own ecosystem with a cause and effect. Money can help people to survive but in a global economy what happens when tourism leads to prices going up and locals being forced to the fringes of these places we love to visit or in some cases call home.
I am not saying that we should stop visiting, only start reflecting to ensure everyone is profiting in some way. If you have money look for ways to share some of that wealth with the places you visit. Look for a charity or support a local school. This way of spreading money can make the place you are visiting even more enjoyable. Giving is a great way to fill your own bucket and it will in some cases positively impact the local community. Look for ways to make a positive difference.
Yours fiscally responsible, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 26: Reflecting on Past Travel
I love reflecting on past travel experiences. Each experience brings with it a fond memory of a certain place at a certain time in history. Reflecting on these past experiences helps to guide my future travel. What did I enjoy, what caused me grief? This helps to narrow in on doing more of what I love and less of what I don’t.
Reflecting also is a way to reminisce about the past, to relive some of these experiences that have enriched our lives. Looking at pictures spark such joy. We can’t always be on vacation but we can remember, we can reflect and this can be the next best thing.
Beautifully yours, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 27: Ocean Views
There is something about water that just calms me. I feel truly at peace when I am near the water. The ocean awakens all your senses. Seeing the amazing water views. Hearing the waves. Smelling the salty air. Strolling through the water, walking from sandbar to sandbar. I also enjoy the food that comes from the ocean, fresh fish and seafood yummy! Take time when you are near the ocean to soak it all in! You will not regret it.
Beautifully yours, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 28: Save For Travel
Pay yourself first, if you want to travel you need to plan for it. We decide where we want to go, how much it will cost, add 20% then start saving. Once we get a goal in mind, we find ways to make it happen. Sometimes it’s taking on a new job, sometimes it’s selling things we no longer need, but we always find a way to travel. Traveling is important to us and if it’s important to you, you also should find a way to cut expenses and make it happen for you. It’s great for your mental health to look forward to new adventures big and small. It is more expensive to live, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make time for a trip, even if it not overnight! Not every trip needs to be grand.
Yours money conscious, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 29: Hidden Gems
Have you ever just walked around a foreign city, maybe foraging for something to eat, or stepping into a little shop off an alleyway? These moments leave us wanting more. They are not planned, not on the itinerary they are the hidden gems of travel. Sometimes you get to share in on someone else’s experiences and they are moments that never disappoint. Driving to a near by town and exploring a new coffee shop or a local market, what joy! Keep your eyes open and you may just spot a hidden gem that becomes a favourite spot.
Yours adventurous, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 30: Time to Smell the Roses
Spring has sprung flowers are blooming and the scents are incredibly intoxicating… that is if you don’t suffer from allergies. If you do you should stock up on allergy medication before leaving on vacation. You also should always carry Benadryl just in case. I try to always have some on my person. Different places around the World can trigger an allergy attack. If you are sensitive like me, having eye drops and allergy meds are my saviour. Some of my favourites are: Claritin Allergy Medicine, 24-Hour Non-Drowsy Relief 10 mg, 50 Tablets (US link) and Visine Antihistamine Advance Allergy Eye Drops, 15 ml (US link). I don’t need allergy medication all the time, but when I do I have it. So enjoy spring, go for a walk and stop to smell the roses 🥀.
Beautifully yours, Ms. Mindful Traveller
May 31: Mementos
When you travel do you like to bring back a souvenir or two to remind you of your trip? Many people have different collectables that they are in search of. Finding that perfect memento to commemorate your adventure can be so much fun. I love pottery and I tend to search out small additions to add to my collection by walking through local markets. Traditionally I see people on the hunt for paintings, Christmas ornaments, or even key chains and fridge magnets. Whatever you like to recall your vacation memories is always a good idea in my opinion. Just be sure to enjoy the process of the hunt and not to let the hunt take over as the main event. Shopping can be enjoyable but can also be a burden. Don’t stress to find the perfect memento. Keep in mind you don’t want your recollection to be that of: I searched the place over wasting all my time looking for that special piece. Coming back from vacation and reflecting for me is when I get to recall the interactions I had with a local artists who’s hands made the bowl that I brought back, or the history of the type of clay that was used. I so enjoy the story that goes with my pieces. I remember the artists as fondly as the art. To me the memento holds so much more then the object, it’s about human interaction and the experience of where I was and who I was with.
Yours in Reflection, Ms. Mindful Traveller
Beautifully yours, Ms. Mindful Traveller