Refreshing Things

The past few days I've been feeling rather gloomy, stressed, and overwhelmed for lots of reasons and for no reason at all. Sometimes, despite my attempts against it, I let these types of moods affect me a little more than I'd like to admit. I am a worrier and I am not as good at simply moving on from things that bother me as others may be. I've certainly been a bit reclusive lately, finding solitude alone inside with my nose in a book. But the lovely day we're having woke me up a bit and I fell as though I instantly snapped back to reality (or my regular self) when the rain began this morning. I'm feeling creative, calm, and refreshed and I thought I'd share a few ideas of what to do if you ever find yourself in a deep gloom and in need of some refreshment.

Refreshing Things

1. Warm showers: Taking a long warm shower, and even sitting down in the shower if you'd like, is a great wakeup. Just closing your eyes and letting them warm water run over you will bring you clarity and new thoughts.  
2. Watching the weather: Granted, this is best on a day like the one I am having. Watching rain is very relaxing. But even if it is sunny and nothing else, sitting near a window while you work will help you stay calm and improve creativity and your mood.
3. Cooking well for yourself: I am guilty of making fast, boring lunches for myself. I usually only put great care into what I am making if someone else is eating with me. Spoil yourself with good food and take your time preparing it. Today I made garlic white cheddar pasta with mushrooms (and zucchini, red onion, artichoke, and tomato) for lunch and it was so refreshing to eat well.
4. Journaling: Write down what is on your mind, what has been stressing you out, what you are worrying about. Putting these things down on paper and then reading them back will give you time to reevaluate and gain perspective on your problems. I always find that things that worry me are far less threatening when listed out. You can tear the piece of paper up, if you're into that sort of thing. 
5. Yoga or meditation: Allow yourself time alone to actively try and relax. When I do yoga I enjoy pushing all other thoughts out and only allowing myself to think about my body and it's movement. It is a great opportunity to remind myself that I am entirely in charge of what thoughts I allow to rule my mind and, although it can be difficult, I can change those hurtful thoughts if I want to. 
6. Putting on something pretty: Get out of those comfy pants you've been wearing the past 3 days (if you've been wearing pants at all) and put on something that makes you feel good about yourself. Unless those comfy pants make you feel good about yourself, then by all means wear them. My go-to is a lace dress. Do your hair and makeup, too, if you're so inclined. Getting ready for the day will encourage productivity.

If all else fails, Bon Iver.