GABI IORI
February, although the shortest month of the year, can often feel like it drags on forever. Fresh off the heels of January’s resolutions and snow days, February can feel like a waste of time and energy. By the end of the month, it can be hard to maintain those goals we made for the new year and slog through the chilly days, even though spring is right around the corner.
Here are a few things you can do to make the drearier days pass a little more painlessly. (Or do none of these! Do what will be best for you!)
- Spend time with someone you love. Whether romantic or platonic, hanging out with someone you care about (and who cares about you!) can be revitalizing and rejuvenating. It can be a nice little reminder of how great you are to spend some time with someone who lifts you up.
- …or spend it alone! Eat some candy, go out to a movie or just spend the day taking care of yourself. You can do whatever is best for you.
- Take advantage of the smattering of warm days. Go for a walk around God’s Acre or take a walk downtown instead of a drive. Fresh air, especially in the middle of winter, can improve your headspace if your mind starts to feel dreary and cloudy.
- Be a tourist in your own town. Visit a new restaurant with a friend, study in a place downtown that you’ve never been before or find a different coffee shop to visit. Breaking the monotony of an everyday routine can make things seem a bit more fresh and have the days pass in a way that doesn’t feel slow and sluggish.
- Plan something relaxing or fun for the end of the week. Having something to look forward to can lift your spirits and it can make the week zip by a little faster. Set up a tea date at the Flour Box with a friend or dedicate a Saturday evening just for yourself.
- Above all, take care of yourself. Make sure you hydrate, keep things in perspective, and eat well. This, too, shall pass. Seasonal affective disorder is a real thing, but March should bring warmer weather and higher spirits.
thesalemite.org 