Under the weather

It's an interesting term, "under the weather." What it means to me is a situation in which I'm not ill, but not well either. Being under the weather is a kind of limbo, a pause in which the body is grappling with something or another for which the outcome is not yet clear. Sometimes it means I'm coming down with something, a cold or the flu, but am not yet symptomatic except for a distinct sense that my energy is sinking below what I consider "normal." Other times it means my body is working harder than usual to maintain homeostasis because I haven't had enough rest or exercise, or because of a change in the weather, hence the term is apt.

For some people, an under the weather day signals the need to push harder, drink more coffee. Others simply ignore the lackluster mood that accompanies a vague sense of feeling off; they behave as if they feel fine in spite of bags under their eyes or chalky skin, dull hair and eyes.

Both of these approaches are quite disrespectful, if you ask me. What I like to do when I'm under the weather is take it easy. I might not get into bed, but I won't push myself. I eat simply, avoid alcohol and coffee, that sort of thing. Instead of an epic walk, I stroll. I want to stretch my legs, get my blood moving, no more but no less either. I also avoid loud music, loud people, traffic and other unsettling situations. This behavior is an act of kindness I do for myself.

Usually it only takes a day to rise above the malaise at which point I am fully able to take on the sturm und drang of life on planet Earth.

This approach reflects plain old common sense, yes? I say yes. The next time you're under the weather, take it easy for a day, will you please? The world will carry on until you feel better, I promise! May you be well. Shalom.