Happy Scents

Years of being an introvert and independent led me to a bag of tricks to feel better. Creating your own sunshine is the term I use instead of happiness. Happiness is very elusive and has different meaning to everyone. I had fight depression in several instances of my life so we are not going into that.

Some of these ways I learned through people I met through the years and some habits I just discovered through this quarantine season. It might work or might not for you and doing this is entirely up to you.

Things I do to create a positive mood:

• Eat comfort food– I eat healthy and drink from juicing (fresh fruit and vegetables). However if I feel a little down, I go to this place. They said don’t eat with your emotions but I can’t help it. It is not as if I do it regularly. Jollibee and Grill City in Seafood City Chicago are comfort food for me. I love their food. Calamares in Jess Cafe is my favorite. Italian beef and strawberry milkshake in Portillos are too die for. Red velvet cake from Cheesecake Factory and Bundt Cake. If you bring me this one, we are in good terms after the fight.
• Playtime with Kids– This is self explanatory but I want to expound on it. I love being around kids because I took care of my cousin’s babies/kids since 5th or 6th grade. They bring so much energy and those facial expressions/responses are hilarious up to now. I learned through my brother in law that smelling a head of a newborn or toddlers can take your stress away. I tried this, it really works. Playing is their primary language as well. My cousin always tell me, “You are a child magnet and they just come to you.” Well maybe I have a superpower. This is just for people who like kids because kids throw tantrums and knowing how to handle is a part of the game.
• Listen to Music (Hip-hop/Rap and Alternative Rock (Filipino bands)– This is what I learned from our youth pastor years ago. “Listen to upbeat or fast beat music if you are lonely.” “It makes you feel better.” It is true I survive years in my apartment with no wifi and cable because of Gloc 9. I am an ultimate fan since I was in the Philippines. I just love the beat, music and the storytelling through lyrics. Blasting music in my car and instantly I feel better. Now I am getting hooked at his protege, Shanti Dope. I like Alternative rock by Filipino bands only such as Parokya ni Edgar, (watched their concert), Rivermaya and Eraserheads better than new bands now. I’m old school. I listened to Eminem and Wiz Khalifa too who doesn’t. I listen to underground rapper too.
• Dance Tiktok– This platform or app makes me express my love in dancing. I started when my friend challenged me and I could not say no to a challenge. I was born competitive. It just makes me feel good but it takes time not as if I get the choreography right away. I just love feedbacks when I make someone’s day. I do lip synching and maybe next time acting. It is fun, fun, fun.
• Youtube Vlogs– I just do this for entertainment. I’m hooked at couples doing pranks at each other. Watching reality TV with no scripts and maybe they talk about the whole scenario who knows. They are so natural that I subscribe and watch every upload.
• Gratitude journal– On a serious note counting my blessings are getting me through everything. I started my reverse bucket list, and people I’m grateful for and why. I recommend doing this not only you see your goals being met one by one but knowing people who stood by you and never give up on you. I have receive the greatest blessing in my life right now and so grateful to Jesus.

I choose one or a combination whenever I’m under the weather because you have to create your own sunshine. Do not rely on someone to make you happy because it brings so much disappointments. Be the creamer to your coffee. Sending light and love to everyone. ☀️