Push Through
This has legitimately become the most popular outlet for my thoughts. I’m going through a rough time these days. If you’re not familiar with who I am and my usual disposition about life, this tone of voice is not usual. I am a very bright, excited person, but today that is very different. It has never been hard for me to be transparent and honest about my life, and to some, that’s a weakness. I can’t hide when it comes to my emotions. There are very few occasions where I prefer to keep things to myself. I write a lot for this very reason. Other than that my routine is to pray, talk to Jesus about it.
If any of you have dealt with anxiety or depression,
you may experience what I do. I’m good at enjoying moments, living in the present. However, it doesn’t stop my mind from wandering to a place of inexplicable sadness. This morning I woke up ready to celebrate with a friend for their birthday, but the closer I got to be ready, I slowed down, like I didn’t have a true desire to step outside. I woke up fine, doing my routine of thanking God for another day, smiling, taking a deep breath, and literally rolling out of bed. I can’t explain it but you can feel your spirit being low.
There’s nothing I want more than to be able to overpower that tone with color and light. Here’s my reality, sometimes it does take sitting in those feelings and saying, “God, I’m tired. I’m not excited, nor am I looking forward to doing anything today. I’m praying not that you remove the feeling, but that you help me power through, to see the other side. You and I are bigger than my sadness. We can and will overcome this day.”
Now, I’m listening to Maverick City Music’s newest album, Maverick City Vol. 3 Pt. 2. While I’m listening here’s a list of things I’m going to do to help me see the other end of these feelings:
Self Care Saturday
Most people do self-care Sunday, but I like to do these things on Saturday. Sundays are an extension of that because church is also a part of my self-care. Pouring into myself spiritually revitalizes every part of my being, especially my mind. I’ll be doing a mask, courtesy of Urban Hydration (Black-Woman-Owned), and a full routine that includes The Ordinary’s squalane cleanser, and the finale of a lavender & jojoba oil facial serum (usually in my nighttime skincare routine).
Writing
Well, I’m doing that now, but I’ll do it again before I go to bed. I try to write in my prayer journal every day because that’s my dedicated, intimate time with God. I appreciate it and I think he does too.
Rest, Little Eyes
Some people may be against this, but I’m all for a scheduled nap. Most people don’t nap successfully because they sleep for too long. 30-45 minutes is all that’s necessary to feel refreshed. You might notice that when you sleep longer than an hour, your body feels heavier, you feel like you’ve been hit by a train. Your body only needs a short amount of time to sleep to feel really awake. Aside from that, you still want to be able to get the 7 hours of sleep you need the night following your nap. Do yourself a favor and set a timer.
If you guys try any of these tips for pushing through your rough day, comment below and let me know how they worked, or how you modified them to your taste.
Xoxo, Chelle
p.s. - if you’re anxious or depressed, you are not alone.
