With President Trump's inauguration in the rear view, we have a long four years ahead of us and we must remember to stay creative and continue practicing self-care. I have compiled my own list of 15 things that you can do instead of giving up and drowning in your own pool of sadness. Enjoy and stay strong!
1. Go To The Movies
The movies are a perfect way to escape the craziness in Washington D.C. that occurred this past weekend and all the drama that has followed. Taking a break and escaping to the movies for a while is the perfect way to transport yourself to an alternative setting.
2. Go For A Hike
There is no better way to disconnect from the madness than ditching your phone, the Internet, and social media and going to enjoy nature. Go with a group of friends, plan a picnic, bring a camera, and just enjoy not having to think about anything but being in the moment. Also, burning a few extra calories along the way will make my next point all the more enjoyable…
3. Eat
There is no better way to get rid of your feelings than by eating them. There is nothing wrong with enjoying yourself and splurging every so often, I even encourage it. Being healthy and living an active lifestyle should be crucial (thanks, Michelle!), but its also important to have a cheat day, or few days, every so often. Either way, don’t be afraid to make a second trip to the supermarket this weekend.
4. Attend A Theatre Show
I have to admit I am a little biased when It comes to my fourth point. I love theatre; I cherish the entire experience of being in the theatre and watching a live performance. I’d be glad to give some great advice for the best place to sit and what to see this season, but check your local theater listings and spend some time investing in what’s local. After all, you don’t have to go to Broadway to see a good show!
5. Be Creative
Visit your local crafts stores, or even explore around online, and get inspired! Write, draw, sing, or dance your way out of the negativity that will likely remain floating around in the air for the next four years.
6. Go To A Museum
Museums can really capture your attention and make you think about things in a different way. They also can give you a new perspective on art. I live in the Bay Area and I would highly recommend the SF MoMa, PACE Gallery in Palo Alto, or literally anything In Berkeley.
7. Work
Yeah, yeah, I know. Throwing yourself into your work is actually a perfect way to escape all things Trump and still be productive with your time. However, don’t worry too much about work and be sure to take a break from it to preserve your mental health.
8. Read
I can recommend "The Girl With The Lower Back Tattoo", a book from comedian Amy Schumer. If she isn't your style, there are plenty of books out there that can take you away; pick up a book about travel or a collection of short stories, anything that will pick you up when you need it and inspire you.
9. Take A Bath
Okay, I know that baths aren’t for everyone. However, it can be really relaxing to go buy a bath bomb, or make your own, and just relax with some good music and warm water. Sometimes a good shower can literally make you feel like you’re literally washing your stress away. Also, I can definitely recommend some good music that is sure to transport you to another less aggravating reality.
10. Sleep
Take a nap or two or three or just hibernate until 2020! Sleeping is so good for you and there is no better way to relax your body than by literally powering down and enjoying a good rest. When classes, work, or the general stress of everyday life can be too much, a good nap can really put everything on pause for a while.
11. Watch Speeches
Go online and watch speeches that have been inspiring people for generations. Anything from Martin Luther King Jr. to President Barack Obama really does the trick and can inspire you to believe in a better future.
I also highly recommend looking up speeches and interviews with Michelle Obama who has the amazing ability as a speaker to make you feel like she has wrapped you in a warm blanket and is giving you a once in a lifetime pep talk. It is one of the many reasons why I love her.
12. Be Active
Nothing (really, nothing) can take care of my anger, frustration, or gloomy attitude like going to the gym and working out. There's something about running, lifting, or just engaging your muscles and core that can be really therapeutic and lift your spirits for the rest of the day.
13. Be Politically Active
Yeah, yeah. I know what you’re thinking. Wasn’t this supposed to be a piece about escaping politics? Yes, but escaping is only a temporary solution and is the perfect way to temporarily numb the pain of what’s to come. Call your representative, give to Planned Parenthood, go door to door and talk to people about health care, or even sign a petition to show that you care. Right now, what we need is a group of people who are active and won’t be afraid to stand up for what is right. Be that person, in whatever way speaks to you the most.
14. Binge TV Shows
"Girls", "Stranger Things", "Westworld", and "Weeds" are just a few of the shows I would highly recommend sitting down and watching – I can pretty much guarantee you will be engaged for so long that Netflix will ask if you’re still there, and you might even make it an all day experience. Invite friends over, start a series together! I watched all of "Stranger Things" with my best friend, and we are both eagerly awaiting the next season on the edge of our seat.
15. Tell the people you care about that they matter.
There is nothing better than giving your mom a hug, or telling your best friend how much they mean to you. This is a really difficult time for some people, and putting love out into the world will only yield more love. Call your grandparents, or just shoot your loved ones an email.
