Writing Craft: Fight the Writing Blues
Winter isn't the easiest time of the year. The days are shorter, the temperature drops, the sun makes itself scarce. We tend to want to eat more, sleep more, and pass the time with movies and board games, waiting until Spring comes and the world sees a wondrous rebirth.
While not everyone feels the seasonal depression that seems common these days, chances are many of us have endured a bout with the winter blues. For writers, these times may be particularly difficult, as creation requires a high output of positive energy. Stave off your blocks (emotional and otherwise) this season with a few easy techniques.
Go for a walk. Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean we should forget about the awesomeness of Mother Nature. Some places have beautiful snowy landscapes. In warmer climes, there are flowers that bloom only during the winter season. So, throw on a jacket, or in some cases snow shoes, and take a gander.
Spend time in your happy place. So it's the sun you're missing? Take a few minutes and picture yourself standing under the warmest, brightest sunbeam. Surround yourself with light and warmth in your mind and you will feel happier and more energized. Or maybe it's the greenness of the trees you are longing for? Do the same with that. Surround your mind's eye with luscious, beautiful, blooming green. If there is something about a physical place that is bothering you, you have the power to mentally remove yourself from it for a time.
Take a bath. Soak yourself with sea salts and essential oils. The scent of grapefruit is particularly prone to lifting spirits. Give your soul some quiet time. Let your mind free. Breathe deeply. Don't you feel relaxed already just thinking about it?
Clear your space. De-cluttering our work space is the best way to de-clutter our minds. If you feel piled up with a lot of junk in your office, clear it out! This will make your Spring Cleaning that much lighter.
Listen to upbeat music. If you're trying to avoid the winter blues, you probably don't want to be listening to it in music form. Fill your playlist with songs that make you want to get up and dance.
Happy writers create good content. Stay a happy writer this season. You deserve it.
