Homework, laundry and the dishes

As a new CreComm student I’ve noticed my agenda book has been filling up at an alarming new pace. I’m definitely up for the challenge and excel when I’m busy. Actually, I enjoy being busy. Who wants to have nothing to do? Life is so much more exciting when you’re experiencing it at full speed. I even tackled three jobs at once while still going to university.

I’m also good at procrastinating. Procrastination, prolonging the inevitable, does not mix well my agenda book, which reminds me I have another project.

Earlier this year I had the amazing opportunity to go to Cuba for two weeks. Before I left for the first week I picked up “The Happiness Project” by Gretchen Rubin at the University bookstore. I figured it would be a nice easy read for the beach, and I was right. I discovered a lot of interesting ways to feel happy, even in tougher times. Throughout my blog I’ll be referencing Rubin as I share new ways I found to feel happy and also the little things that make me smile.

My copy is a bit worn, but that's how you can tell it's a good book. It's great to reference and lend out. 

One of Rubin’s ways to feel happy is tackle a nagging task. I found this tactic especially useful. There appears to be a positive correlation between my ever growing to-do list and the clutter in my room. My jobs add up and weigh on my mind. One way I make myself feel better is get started and don’t stop. After I finish my chores and assignments, the ones I've put off for a couple of days, there's a sense of relief. It's a win-win situation: house is clean, homework is done, and now I have free time.

Last night I cleaned my room, vacuumed, did the dishes, wash and folded my laundry, and scrubbed my bathtub. I contacted my employer about shifts and completed one project and started another. Finally, I had tackled my to-do list. After a lovely productive evening, I feel great. Better yet, I have the time for the things I enjoy. 

Some nagging tasks will always be there, like vacuuming. It’s a part of my routine. Rubin said, “One of the best ways to lift your mood is to engineer an easy success, such as tackling a long-delayed chore”. Next up is cleaning out my closet! Sit down and write out a list of tasks that need to be done. Cross out each one as you do them. It’s a simple, easy way to feel happy. 

P.S. I added a new page! Junk from my iPod! Check it out -> the jam for this week is Tongue tied by Grouplove

Slow down and take care

Tension, pressure, aches and pains, is our body trying to tell us something. It can be something as simple or complex as stress. In order to feel better it’s crucial to listen and respond to our body. That’s why I went to Natural Pains Solutions on Broadway for help.

It may not be very scientific but after only an hour of peace away from the chaos of Cre Comm I felt renewed. Not only did she work out the kinks in my back, she also gave me exercises for the ‘pond scum’ that had built up around my muscles. I came out of feeling like I could do anything.

It’s essential to take a few moments out the day for you. We need to remind ourselves that’s its okay and important to book ‘me’ time. When you’re happy on the inside it shows on the outside. Do what makes you feel good. This could mean volleyball, rugby, dance, meditation, or a lovely mani pedi. Listen to your body. As Carl Honore praises: Slow down.

Check this out if you haven’t seen it à http://www.ted.com/talks/carl_honore_praises_slowness.html

When we take care of ourselves we increase our productivity. Being low on energy looks like me having one eye open still trying to write down notes that are indecipherable the next day. Why didn’t I get more sleep? Mediocre work is not appreciated. If we get the right amount of sleep, eat right, take our vitamins, and be proactive about those pains and aches we operate in an optimal state!

Being proactive about health can reduce congestion in waiting rooms. Remember the emergency room and how long it took? People often let their symptoms get worse, thinking they’ll feel better soon enough. I’ve been one of those people. I’ll own up to it. I learned, waiting doesn’t fix your problem and pain doesn’t magically disappear.

Get a massage, see a chiropractor, have a bath, do whatever it takes to for you to feel better. Exercise even a little. I’m not an avid ‘gym go-er’ but I do feel awesome after a workout. Plus: you get endorphins out of the deal and your body is happy. Win-win situation.

Today I remind everyone to listen to his or her body. Personally, I get caught up in deadlines and who wants what and this shift or that errand.  If you’re not sure what to do, ask. It’s best to ask the right people such as your doctor. Don’t let your body scream at you. Slow down, listen and respond or your body will talk back.