the slump
Seasonal sadness is a worst enemy of mine. The cold air that makes me want to stay in bed and never get out, the gloomy gray skies, the car I have to brush snow off of, the snow that my foot gets devoured by when walking to said car; It can be depressing. Life, especially school, takes a toll on the mind and body, leaving you burnt out with the heavy feeling of responsibilities. Getting back into the groove of things is extremely rewarding. The weather is starting to get warmer and the unproductivity of the week after spring break is hitting. It’s the best time to get out of this slump!
turning it around
Self-Care
The best start to a self-care day is turning on your favorite playlist, a great background show that won’t draw your attention in toooo much, or a podcast you’ve been looking forward to listening to. Now: What’s bothering you the most? Clean your room, do your laundry, take a shower, change your clothes, have a meal, or do anything that’s begging you to be done. Part of my self-care routine that might be helpful to add into yours is taking some time at the end of the day to simply journal & relax. Once all of my emotions are written out on the piece of paper, the weight of them feels a bit lighter. Things like taking a walk, getting outside and reading a couple chapters of a new book, or finding a new coffee shop to frequent are all steps to take that could give you the little boost you need. Even better if you ask a friend to tag along! If your mind or body will say thank you, that’s self-care!
confidence boost
This could honestly fall into self-care, but it’s significant enough to deserve its own paragraph. Part of feeling good about yourself stems from doing things that you enjoy, release emotions, or are confident in. Recently, going to the gym and weightlifting has been integrated as a big part of my routine because it makes me feel good! I’ve been waiting to try a rage-room; Definitely something that could help release emotion and have me walk out feeling like a badass. Taking yourself on solo dates is something that I believe everyone should take part in. I’m talking about getting dressed in something that you feel the best in, maybe doing your hair or putting on some makeup, whatever will have you feeling the best in your own skin, and just going somewhere on your own. Maybe it’s a restaurant you’ve been wanting to try or a painting class. Do something that’ll leave you feeling confident.
Mindfulness
I think it’s important to note that it’s okay to have a slump every once in a while. Growth isn’t linear and neither is healing. Being hard on yourself because you’re upset you didn’t “do enough” or frustrated that you don’t feel as strong as you did before is not going to help you – it’ll just make you more upset. Switching gears and correcting those negative thoughts with a positive statement is good for you! It might sound silly or unproductive, but slowly rewiring your brain into appreciating all that you do for yourself, even if it is just getting through the day, will be beneficial. I promise!