getting over summer slumps
Summer is definitely my favorite season, warm weather, long days, summer clothing, the beach, rosé, fresh picked strawberries, I mean what is not to love?
But this year has just felt different…
My big August birthday is looming in my future. I am usually the kind of person that wants to celebrate my birthday all month long, but this year I just feel like skipping it. I don’t feel ready for 35. I thought I would have more things figured out. I thought I would have my career figured out and not feel like a total newbie all over again. I thought I would have more friends. I thought Roger would still be here to celebrate with me.
Also a few weeks ago I got Covid, and even though I am fully vax-ed/boosted it took such a toll on me. Being sick in the summer is literally the worst.
I need a boost and a shift in perspective. I need to remember that the great thing about getting older is you get to know yourself more, you have more life experience. I have been in a dark hole before and I know how to get out. Yes it can feel impossible, but it always gets better.
To anyone out there that is maybe bed-rotting and needs reminding that life can be fun, this is what usually helps me.
Go for a walk. We all know this but just do it. It doesn’t have to be far or fast but just go.
Say nice things to yourself. My mind can wander so far from the truth and needs help getting back. I know repeating affirmations sounds dumb and can feel silly, but they help. I am not religious about it or reciting them in the mirror, but even if I read a couple on days that just blow, I usually feel a tiny bit better.
Eat real food. Sometimes planning and cooking a meal can feel like such an effort, and snacking can feel so easy, or you start living off bowls of cereal. But try to focus on getting some real nutrients. It doesn’t have to be a fully loaded kale salad, but a frozen meal from TJs is better for your mental health than a family size bag of doritos :)
Make a gratitude list. This goes with changing your inner dialog. I get so focused on all the wrong that is in the world that I forget about everything that is great. Sometimes the gratitude list is one thing, sometimes it is 10. But if I get into the habit of making a list I start to notice more things I am grateful for and excited about.
I am definitely not perfect at any of the above. But this is just my reminder that everyone goes through rough bits. You are important and the worlds needs you. Signing off with a few things I am grateful for.
The yellow flowers in the lake at Prospect Park. Do they bloom every year? Are they always so bright? They are so beautiful.
Adding cocoa powder onto my cappuccinos. Mornings have been so hard since Roger passed. He loved mornings and particularly loved sneaking licks of my coffee. I now add a healthy dusting of cocoa to the top of my coffees knowing that Roger won’t be enjoying any.
Outdoor seating at Petite Dumpling. If you watched my vlogmas you know how much I love dim sum and my favorite spot Petite Dumpling. During open streets they have outdoor dining. Dog watching and dim sum; it’s the best.
Good books. I became a member of the library and finally managed to get back into reading. It’s fun you should try it :) What book should I read I ready next?
ok, happy leo season!!
xx E