Grace Cavanaugh ~ Editor in Chief
I know I am not alone when I say I feel heavy. Not in the physical sense, but emotionally and spiritually, I just feel…too much.
I believe it is a sign of the times. There is so much happening in the world right now, so much to despair over. And it can be very difficult to process these emotions, to try to find a way to lessen the load.
Personally, for me, I throw myself into whatever project I can find. Recently, it was research into witchcraft and the like, so I can start up my occult articles again. Then I found a new obsession: getting a cat, which I am very excited about.
Some would suggest meditation. Prior to contrary belief, meditation does not have to be sitting still. I know people who meditate by walking around, or doing the dishes. It is not to calm your mind either, but rather to let a stream of consciousness flow through you. I find it is easier to order my thoughts that way, and then the load lessens, if only a little.
Going outside is pretty nice too. If you have an extra blanket lying about, you can sit in the sunshine. Or hammock along the Black Water Creek Trail or in the Dell. Or pick a red chair and relax a little. So long as you do not forget your bug spray or sunscreen, you should feel better.
I have also taken up running/walking every other day. In the morning, when it is cooler, I run through my neighborhood and then walk up the street to the elementary school and back to my house. The last time I did this, I made a friend (James the neighborhood stray cay) and felt a lot better about the day ahead of me.
The point to this ramble is that regardless of what is going on in the world, just as you have to take time to grieve, you need to take time to yourself too. Mental health is very important, and burnout can happen very fast, especially if you are stressing about the real world, school, and your own personal life all at the same time.
Slow down, breathe, drink some water, and keep chugging on.
