Sunny Disposition

The weather here in St Andrews has been amazing for the last week and a bit! It's been so sunny and warm, and the town has therefore been buzzing with tourists. It's also been iced coffee weather, which is always fine by me!

I've had the best week mood-wise too. At the start of the week I had an essay to hand in, which was a little stressful, but even that didn't make me feel that bad! I've felt organised, social, been able to exercise and eat well, and be pretty productive. Yesterday I tidied and hoovered my room and that helped even more! I've been a little tired, as being a busy uni student will always make you feel, but not unbearably so for once!

I know it can't last forever, but until the end of the semester would be wonderful haha! Especially with exams and LOTS of revision coming up.

I don't like to self-diagnose, as I know there are many people who suffer far worse than me, but, although I haven't spoken much about it on here as it's still something I'm figuring out myself, I don't always have the sunniest disposition, or the easiest time with mental health. It's not uncommon, or unusual, and I reckon it may even be linked to (or somewhere on the spectrum of) Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which basically means that when there's more daylight, your body produces less melatonin and so you aren't as sleepy/low, and vice versa!

I tend to avoid such distinct labels, but its fair to say that, as much as I've always considered myself a winter gal,  this wonderful weather is doing me the world of good.

I LOVE to hear the kids next door playing outside; to see families walking their dogs and queuing for ice cream; to, as was the case last night, comfortably sit with friends around a bonfire on the beach at night. I think it probably has something to do with my creative side too, with my love of people watching and sentimentally reflecting on my surroundings. Even sitting in the library, as I am now, is so much less depressing with the sun streaming in. Yes, it would be even better if I could be out enjoying it rather than contemplating the ever-increasing pile of books by my side, but, hey, I can't expect the sun to cure my every responsibility now can I?! Plus the recent extra energy and motivation applies to my studies too.

It makes me SO excited for summer, when I'll be free and able to explore and socialise in what I hope will continue to be a very sunny UK! I actually think having so many lovely things to look forward to in the coming days and weeks and months help too... life just becomes more fun at this time of year haha. The less vibrant lull between Christmas and Summer is slowly fading to a memory.

For now, I better get some work done, but I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend and appreciates the sunshine while it graces us with its presence!

Catriona :)