Sometimes, bad days just happen. You wake up feeling off and a little gloomy for no particular reason. It's often called a case of the blues. When you're in this emotional rut, you have to take a breath and take a day. Try "Blair Waldorf-ing."
Blair Waldorf is as iconic as the Gossip Girl series itself--she's fashionable, brilliant, fiercely loyal to the people she cares about, and a bit scheming. Her clothing choices are always on point (aside from everyone's questionable style choices from seasons one and two), and she lives for order and control in her own life. Yet, she's also a romantic.
The practice of "Blair Waldorf-ing" comes from (slight spoilers) Serena and Blair's adventures in Paris--she spends the majority of her summer standing in front of a single portrait of the Louvre. This is her time, it's hermoment of piece, and a way to let go of the world around her and lose herself in the beauty of a work of art.
Here are the steps of Blair Waldorf-ing, which are sure to get you over a gloomy day:
1. Mentally take a step back.
Take a breath, and when you let it out, push all the deadlines, all the worry, all the fear and angst away. Let go of all your negative emotions for the day. You can deal with them later. It's much easier to address a problem when you're relaxed than when you're stressed.
2. Dress yourself up.
You'll want to look better than you feel. Put on some makeup, do your hair, wear a dress and heels--whatever makes you feel pretty. If you make yourself feel beautiful on the outside, it starts to make you feel beautiful on the inside as well. This leads in to the next step.
3. Visit an art museum.
Or an art gallery. The purpose is to surround yourself with beautiful things, but as an observer. Since you're dressed up and feeling good, imagine yourself as a piece of art surrounded by similar pieces. Don't be afraid to wander. Read the descriptions, but also just appreciate what you see before you.
4. Have a mini-picnic in a park.
Once your feet start feeling sore, go and get a light snack and just sit in the park. People watch, bird watch, or just be. Take a deep breath and smell the fresh air. Again, don't be afraid to wander. This day is yours, so let it lead you where it will.
Some days we need to lay under the covers with a bowl of ice cream and have a Netflix marathon. Other days we need to lose ourselves in work. Then, some days, we just need to step back, take a breath, let go of all the stress and negative things around us, and surround ourselves with beautiful things. Self-care and self-love are important, so listen when your inner voice is telling you to take a break.
XOXO, Gossip Girl