It’s always peaceful about waking up early on a Saturday morning, especially when you know most of the world is still under the covers. That quiet moment before the city stirs feels like a small victory, like you’ve overcome the temptation to snooze and gifted yourself the day before it even begins.
I cherish Saturdays for that exact reason. They are my sacred space for mindfulness, movement, and little rituals that bring me joy—whether it’s a sweaty gym session, reading a nostalgic book, or admiring the plants in my living room.
Let me take you through how my day unfolded and the small lifestyle choices I’ve made over the past year that continue to support my physical strength, mental clarity, and peaceful heart.
When Plans Shift, We Adapt: Morning Rain and a Gym Session
My Saturday started with a plan to cycle, but as life often goes, the rain changed my course. Instead of pushing through the drizzle, I listened to my body and headed back home to the gym for a full-body workout.
It turned out to be a great decision. I dedicated the next hour to a strength training session focusing on upper and lower body movements, mixed with core exercises. As someone training for a triathlon in November, building strength is now a big focus for me.
In the past, I didn’t incorporate much weightlifting into my routine. I used to think endurance was enough. But I’ve learned that if I want to swim stronger and run faster, my muscles—especially arms and core—need to be just as conditioned as my heart and lungs.
And I love how strength training makes me feel—grounded, powerful, and full of energy.
Quiet Lunch Moments and the Return to a Childhood Book
After training, I came home, showered, and made myself a nourishing lunch. Nothing fancy—just something simple and warm. And lately, I’ve added a beautiful habit to my lunchtime routine: reading a few pages of The Secret Garden.
It was a book I adored as a child but hadn’t thought about in years. Somehow, I stumbled upon a copy sitting quietly on a shelf in the office. No one claimed it, so I took it as a gentle sign from the universe to revisit this classic.
Each day, I spend 10–15 minutes reading it after lunch before placing it back on the shelf. The garden, the flowers, the healing power of nature—it all speaks to me deeply. Maybe because I’ve always imagined myself one day living in a house with a big garden, filled with white flowers and homegrown vegetables.
It’s also the essence of Sunny Valley, the name I’ve given to this part of my life and my online space: butterflies, flowers, green spaces, and a sense of inner peace.
Cadence, Consistency, and a Stronger You
The past week of training has been rewarding. On Friday, I had a really solid run. I felt in control of my cadence and pace, which is always the goal. Triathlon training isn’t always about speed—it’s about rhythm, consistency, and awareness.
Even a small improvement feels huge when you’ve put in the effort. And I noticed it! My legs felt stronger. My breath more in sync. Progress may be slow, but it’s mine, and I’m proud of it.
The Gift of Caring Hands: Massage Therapy and Recovery
Friday was also special because I had a session with my massage therapist, who’s become a dear part of my journey. She just came back after visiting her family in the countryside, and seeing her again lifted my spirits.
We’ve been working together for over a year. She knows my body better than anyone—where the tightness is, how my muscles react to training, and the kind of recovery I need. After an intense run in the morning, my legs were tight and sore.
She used warm stones to gently massage the tension out, especially in my calves and hamstrings. There’s something magical about being cared for by someone who knows your body and respects the journey you’re on.
Along with my physiotherapist, Dung, these two incredible friends have helped me stay injury-free and motivated throughout my triathlon training. Their care is part of the ecosystem that supports my well-being.
Creating Peace at Home: 5 Small Changes That Changed Everything
While physical strength is a priority, creating a peaceful and nurturing space at home has been equally powerful for my mental and emotional well-being.
Over the past year, I’ve made several intentional changes to my apartment that have transformed it into a little sanctuary.
1. Bringing Nature Indoors with Plants
When I first bought my flat, I knew I wanted it to be green. I filled the space—especially my work area—with plants of all kinds. Right now, I have over 10 different pots in the reading room.
It feels like I’m walking into a mini jungle each morning. The air feels fresher. The energy feels softer. And the plants remind me to stay grounded and keep growing—even on the tough days.
2. Positive Affirmations in Every Corner
I’m a big believer in the power of words. So I printed out my favorite positive affirmations—things like “You are becoming the person you’ve always wanted to be” or “Everything is unfolding as it should.”
I found these on Pinterest, framed them, and placed them strategically around the house. Near the fridge, in the bathroom, by the dining table—anywhere my eyes naturally land throughout the day.
These little affirmations act like friendly nudges, encouraging me to stay positive and aligned.
3. Books That Heal and Inspire
Books are my sanctuary. I’ve created reading spaces with bookshelves in both my living room and bedroom. Some are spiritual texts by Thich Nhat Hanh, who has profoundly shaped how I live. Others are neuroscience books by Dr. Joe Dispenza or the gentle wisdom of Dr. Wayne Dyer.
Even when I don’t have time to read, just seeing these books on my shelf—titles I resonate with—brings me a sense of calm.
4. Functional Organization with Purpose
I love things tidy. Not for perfectionism’s sake, but because it gives clarity to my day. Each area in my apartment has a dedicated function: a workout corner with weights, a separate space for reading and journaling, and an eating area designed for calm meals.
Even my kitchen is organized down to the spice rack and tea shelf. There’s something peaceful about knowing exactly where things are, and it frees up mental space to be present.
5. Turning My Flat into a Mini Gallery
Though my place isn’t huge (78 square meters), I’ve poured love into every inch to make it feel like me. Near the entrance, I display artwork from Vietnamese painters and place a few indoor plants beside them. Family photos sit in neat frames, and my favorite quotes are printed and hung near doorways.
Even if I live in a small space, it feels full of life and intention. Every detail has a story.
Gratitude and Joy for the Simple Things
As I sit here writing, I feel incredibly grateful—for my body, my cozy home, my healing routines, and the simple joys that fill my days.
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos of training, deadlines, or everyday stress. But taking time to reflect on the small victories—the strong cadence in a run, the warmth of a good massage, the comfort of a book from childhood—makes all the difference.
These are the rituals that shape my life: waking early, staying strong, decorating with love, and keeping my spirit grounded.
Whether you’re training for a big event or simply trying to make it through the week with grace, I hope this little window into my Saturday reminds you that strength and peace can coexist. You can push hard in the gym and still spend your afternoons reading about secret gardens. You can strive for growth while nurturing your soul with affirmations, flowers, and quiet walks around your home.
And maybe, just maybe, your dream life is already unfolding.