I’ve always loved the idea of the traditional Thinking Out Loud post. A list of random thoughts that you just want to share because they don’t all need a post of their own. But until now, I never really felt the urge to write one because I usually think more in terms of bigger ideas. I like to have a set topic when I sit down to write instead of just spewing words on the page.
However! Life has been pretty chaotic lately, and because I like this space to be transparent and reflective of me, I figured a chaotic post was in order 😉 Hope that’s okay with you all. Plus if we were getting coffee, this is most likely what I’d talk to you about, so let’s pretend we’re on a virtual coffee date!
Here are some things that have been on my mind lately.
- I mentioned before that I am a retreat leader for freshmen. Well, this past weekend was my last one leading (we can only do it for a year), and it was absolutely incredible. The retreat is all about self-reflection, self-care, introspection, and connection. First of all, it could not have come at a better time because it was the perfect escape from all the school stress. Second of all, I came away with so many lessons. I do want to write a more in-depth post on some of these (you guys know I’m a huge fan of recapping lessons learned), but I want to let the thoughts brew a little longer. Perhaps during spring break…speaking of!
- Spring break is ALMOST here, and my grand plans involve doing a WHOLE LOT of nothing. I mean, I have some errands I need to run and I have plans with two friends, but other than that, I’m planning on watching The Crown, reading my children’s literature books, and catching some QUALITY zzz’s. I think a few movie nights, a Levain Bakery cookie, and a bath might also be on the agenda. And if inspiration strikes, I’ll finally draft all those blog posts that have been brewing around in my mind.
- I don’t know if this is just me, but I always get this…feeling…whenever the seasons change, and a couple days ago, I felt spring. It wasn’t even too warm or too sunny, and it was still February, but I just felt it in the air. SPRING. That makes me happy because I am SO ready for some warmer weather. My ideal weather is, like, San Diego LOL 🙂
- So this will come as a surprise to no one because it’s Harry Potter related, but I discovered this playlist about a week ago, and it has seriously changed my life. This is what has gotten me through two giant papers and studying for exams. Anything to add some magic to the mundane. 🙂
- This is a less positive one, but lately, I’ve had a few recurrences of my anxiety, which hasn’t been too fun. I know I haven’t talked too much about anxiety on here, and that’s mostly because it’s been a while since it’s really been an all-consuming problem. At this point, I sort of know how to get a handle on it and how to manage it, but it gets especially hard when I’m stressed or tired. Do you guys have any tips? What works for me in the moment is usually deep breathing and talking it out.
- I posted two smoothie bowl recipes on Instagram, and you guys should totally check them out because they’re SO GOOD. And filling and nutritious! This one is a delicious protein and veggie-filled bowl with a secret ingredient, and this one is a green smoothie bowl that tastes like chocolate peanut butter ice cream.
- And since we’re on the topic of Instagram, here are two posts with some fun facts about me that I may or may not have talked about here on the blog, if you’re interested!
- And since we’re on the topic of Instagram, I’ve noticed myself doing a WHOLE LOT of mindless scrolling lately. I know it’s a kind of defense mechanism against stress, a way to tap out of the real world and just escape for a moment, but honestly, it never makes me feel better and only stresses me out more. Anyone have tips on how to NOT turn to social media procrastination when overwhelmed?
- Remember when I told you about dropping my self-imposed rule on coffee (only drinking it 3 times a week)? It’s been…the best decision. Seriously, it makes me so happy, and I can’t even tell you how freeing it is to not have to adhere to some arbitrary rule. 🙂
- I’m pampering myself today and taking myself out to get a haircut and a manicure. I’ve been looking forward to it all week. I’m growing my hair out right now, so I actually avoided cutting it for 6 months, but the split ends have become too much to handle LOL. Any tips for growing out your hair and avoiding split ends?
LOL so this post sort of turned into me asking you for advice. Oops. Isn’t that the point of blogging? 😉 JK…sort of. But seriously I appreciate you guys more than I can put into words, and connecting with you all in the comments makes me so happy.
Have a wonderfully restful, delicious, and exciting rest of your week, and I’ll talk to you soon! <3
Cutting down on coffee is tough! I figure it’s really my only vice. We do a monthly virtual coffee date link up the first Sat of the month. So if you want to join us tomorrow we would love to have you!
Deborah @ Confessions of mother runner recently posted…Add These Bodyweight Exercises At The End of Your Run
Coffee coffee COFFEE. I’m dreaming about my next cup already 😉 And thanks so much, Deborah, I’d love to join!
I loovveeeee that feeling of spring. It’s impossible to describe, isn’t it? Just this feeling in the air that stirs something in you. Mmmmmm. Nostalgia. It reminds me of home.
Anxiety – talking it out is the best weapon. I’m sorry it’s been starting to return for you. Stress and fatigue can definitely be huge factors. Talk it out for sure – with a friend or family – gotta get all that gunk out. It’s usually a lot more catastrophic in our minds. <3
Gah I need a haircut, AND a manicure, so badly. Apparently hair actually growers faster when it is kept trimmed… so really cutting off those split ends will help you in the long run! haha. Pun intended.
Cora recently posted…Some Things I’d Like To Share With You (Friday Favorites)
Yessss you know what I’m talking about! And yes, I think my big obstacle is figuring out who to talk to. Used to be my mom but now that I’m older, I almost don’t want to worry her. And hehe I heard that about the frequent trims but it feels SO COUNTERINTUITIVE! Nice pun :p
Hi Nicole!
I found your lovely site from a comment over at theHealthyMaven.com 🙂
Since you took the time to put your musings on “paper”…
About #5: Have you tried hypnosis? I was listening to Dr. Laura podcast and she referred a sleep deprived caller to visit a hypnotist. I can fall asleep but typically wake up within 5ish hours. So I’m going to a hypnotist next week. In my research I found they can help with recovery, stop smoking, etc and I’ll bet anxiety is on the list.
Just thought I’d mention cuz I never would have considered it if I hadn’t heard that podcast.
#8 How about reading instead? It’s still somewhat mindless but at least it’s productive! Haha. I love fiction, but I’m also reading “Crushing It” by the awesome Gary V. and the “5 Second Rule” by Mel Robbins.
#9 Oh how we love our coffee. “Sigh” You probably know caffeine strips us of calcium and as women that’s the last thing we need. Until I quit completely, I’ve found something that works for me. I bought beautiful little coffee cups and then I measure out just over one T of coffee grinds for the pot. So I get one (small) cup. If you try this, you really do have to buy new cups or you’ll feel gypped with a half full reg cup of coffee. 🙂
xo, darlene
Aww Hi Darlene!! What a sweet comment! I have not tried hypnosis, but you know, I have a feeling it just wouldn’t work on me. My mind is far too active in a way haha, like I can’t force it to be blank or chill, and I feel like that’s an important part of it. That’s a really cool idea though! And OMG yes to reading. Currently on spring break, so breezing through books, but it’s so hard when you’re so busy to open a book since it feels like more of a time commitment than cursorily swiping through a bunch of pictures, you know? Those books are amazing, I’ve heard! And wow, very good coffee tip! I think I’m alright for now, since I’m not actually addicted, just like the taste hehe, and I do try to have multiple sources of calcium in my diet. Have a lovely week <3
Well, I’m gonna try the hypnosis for sleep.
I’ll let you know 🙂
Very good article!
I’m a coffee-fiend…I drink about 5 cups a day from my Ninja coffee brewer.
Keep up the good work!
Matt recently posted…The Best Coffee Makers for the Money (2018)
You and me both! 🙂