Greetings, University of New Haven! As the sun shines brightly on our campus today, signaling the impending arrival of summer, it’s time to bask in its warmth and enjoy the beauty of the season.
Personally, I am embracing the warmer weather with open arms. I’ve always felt like a lizard, relying on external heat sources to keep me going. So, the onset of summer is a welcome relief for me.
But amidst the excitement of impending finals and the hustle and bustle of daily life, I wanted to take a moment to connect with all of you. So, grab a snack, take a breather, and let’s chat about some real stuff.
Lately, there have been significant changes in my life, particularly in my journey of eating disorder recovery. While I attempted to pen down my thoughts on where I stand in this journey, it turned into a messy rant. This blog is meant to be a space of transparency, but I realized that dumping all my emotions here wouldn’t be fair. So, after giving myself time to process, here’s the lowdown.
I recently had to fill out paperwork for outpatient treatment for my eating disorder recovery. Needless to say, I wasn’t thrilled about it. There were tears, frustration, and a lot of fear. I worried about how this intensive treatment would fit into my already packed summer schedule. After all, this is my last summer as a teenager, and I want to make the most of it. I want to go on adventures, indulge in outdoor activities, and just live life to the fullest.
But as they say, every transformation comes with its challenges. And in that moment, outpatient treatment felt like my biggest adversary. However, with time, I’ve come to see it from a more objective perspective. If my healthcare providers believe it’s the right step for me, then maybe it is. Maybe it’ll even help me in ways I can’t foresee right now. So, I’m cautiously optimistic about it.
On the mental health front, things have been relatively smooth sailing. I’ve been keeping seasonal depression at bay and focusing on maintaining my overall well-being. Regular yoga, Pilates, and walks around campus have been my saving grace. Movement is key, folks—it keeps you going longer than any medication ever could.
I also wanted to share some of my favorite YouTube channels for yoga, Pilates, and mental health content. These creators have been instrumental in my journey.
Outside of YouTube, I enjoy indulging in creative activities like drawing, singing, painting, and learning new skills. But lately, I’ve been struggling to maintain my morning routine. I’ve fallen off the habit train, and it’s left me feeling a bit lost. However, I’m determined to get back on track, starting with waking up earlier and prioritizing self-care rituals.
I’ve also realized the detrimental impact of excessive screen time on my focus and mental well-being. So, I’m making a conscious effort to limit my use of electronics, especially late at night. It’s a work in progress, but I’m committed to finding balance in my life.
As the semester draws to a close, I find myself eagerly anticipating the summer break, even though I’m also looking forward to returning in the fall. Learning has always been my passion, but burnout can sometimes cloud that enthusiasm. Nonetheless, I’m determined to navigate these challenges and emerge stronger on the other side.
Before I sign off, I want to wish everyone a fantastic week filled with sunshine and self-care. Take care, my friends, and remember to prioritize your well-being above all else. Much love to you all!
