As the term is coming to a close, things are starting to pile up. There’s homework to complete, papers to write, group projects to organize, and exams to study for. To top it all off, the sun has disappeared! It’s easy to fall into a sluggish lifestyle with the gray skies above, but here are some simple suggestions to brighten your mood when the sun can’t.
Nail Polish: A simple way to add a little color into your life is to paint your nails. Be bold; pick a bright color! You’ll find yourself wanting to point at things more just so to have an excuse to show-off your colorful nails. Want to take it a step farther? Try using more than one color or add an interesting pattern, like polka dots, strips, or the ever-popular ombré effect.
Coloring Books: Personally, I own around five coloring books, everything from Winnie the Pooh to Tinkerbell’s adventures. It’s a satisfying feeling to put down the purple crayon and look at my masterpiece. Coloring books are a simple and cheap way to relieve some stress. Plus, your fridge could use some artwork!
Candles: Every time I light a candle I instantly become more productive. This aromatherapy is sure to put you in a happier mood while studying for your next exam. Just make sure to smell your candle before purchasing it; no one likes a sunscreen scented candle!
Bake Cookies: All I can say to this is: YUM! Whether it’s pre-made dough or dough made from scratch, nothing beats fresh out of the oven chocolate-chip cookies. No time to bake? Don’t forget about Dough Co.!
Hit the gym: If it’s not sunny outside to tan, might as well take the opportunity to spend some time in the gym, right? Exercise releases endorphins, aka the feel-good hormones, and you’ll leave happier than you arrived. Let’s be honest, nothing feels better than walking outside in the cool air after a hard workout.
Sun-themed playlist: I’m thinking something along the lines of “Walking on Sunshine” and “Here’s comes the Sun.” Fight the bleak walk to class with a sunny playlist!
Crazy Socks: Who doesn’t love a good pair of wacky socks? With the cold weather everyone is wearing tall boots so nobody will know about you pink and yellow penguin socks. After a long day of classes and gray skies, it’ll be nice to walk around your room in silly socks.
Splash in the puddles: The rain isn’t going away, at least not for a while, so might as well embrace it! Take the opportunity to purposefully navigate through every puddle in your path in a pair of rainboots. When I splash through a puddle and my feet stay dry, I feel invincible!
Read a non-academic book: Sometimes it’s just time to put down the Chemistry textbook and pick up the cheesy romantic novel you’ve been wanting to read. You’re brain needs a rest so take the opportunity to curl up with a good book and a mug of your favorite hot beverage.
What do you do to fight the gray Oregon skies?