First Post ^^

The End of the Yarn is my take on how to find happiness and peace in a sometimes hectic life full of ups and downs.  Viewer discretion advised. :)

I've read somewhere that if you find yourself at the end of a rope, you should tie a knot and hang on. This is my attempt to tie that knot on the end of my yarn in the form of a blog that expresses me, while possibly shining light for other souls seeking meaning and fulfillment in their lives. Hope my ramblings impact me and others in a positive way because we all know that this world could use more positivity (if that's even a word).

After many months of being stuck in a pit, wallowing in self-pity and worrying about unemployment in this sucky economy, I've finally come into the light. I've been doing more proactive things and finding that self-will to do things that I used to do when I was a much happier self.

I'm gonna start my first blog with tips to free yourself from depression. On to a happier, healthier you!!!

Tip #1 Start running regularly. 

Not only do you make endorphins and get to enjoy the outside weather, but you can also be inspired to do other things. I went for a 40 minute jog in my neighborhood park. Something I haven't done in a year. I used to jog regularly and get enlightened from my treks out to the park and beach. I'd be inspired to write poems (something I will do again and post) and write proverbs that would really improve my walk in life.

Tip #2 Start a blog. 

I'm finding my own voice again in writing my thoughts out in a blog. This is so important because you only have one voice. You should freely express yourself because nobody is going to do it for you. Don't be afraid of letting your voice be heard. My wise cousin would say this quote. Those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind. Don't worry about the haters. They'll hate others till their death for all I care.

Tip #3 Seek peace.
A verse from the Bible in Psalms 34:14 says Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. So in an effort to obtain peace, I have been crocheting and knitting. This is such a delightful past time and I don't know why I didn't start learning how to long time ago. Even though it takes a long time and callouses form as I'm wielding the needles to make these garments, it's so worthwhile because it clears my mind of worries and woe. I'm making things for myself that I can wear which gives me autonomy and a creative mind. I can also use this skill to make things for others as gift. I will post up pix of my creations later in this blog.

Tip #4 Cook yourself gourmet meals

I can proudly say that I have become a cooking aficionado. I used to dread cooking and my only specialty was making instant ramen. But now I've been googling good recipes left and right. I found awesome recipes for tiramisu, cheesecake, lasagna, lentil soup on allrecipe.com and foodnetwork.com. Not only is it super fun, but you get to feed your loved ones with nutritious meals. Here are some recipes to start you off. 

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/chantals-new-york-cheesecake/ 

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/worlds-best-lasagna/ 

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/alton-brown/lentil-soup-recipe/index.html 

Tip #5 Read more. 

My aunt always says that you can find a road in a book. And although sometimes it's really hard to read when you're down, you can really pick up some good life lessons, another view at looking at things, or even a few laughs in books. If you have a really hard time concentrating. Read some comics or mangas. I recommend Charlie Brown comics or a manga called Vagabond.

Tip #6 Listen to good, positive music.

This is so important. I think everyone has heart songs. When the heart is singing, it is healthy. When it is not, the heart is in a negative, unhealthy place. You can even sing along. And it's ok if you're not in perfect pitch. Nobody is expecting you to be that lady or the kids from Sound of Music. Some artists that I like are Jason Mraz, Bach, Third Day, PhilipsCraig&Dean, and Shane & Shane.

Tip #7 Smile

I know sometimes it's hard to just smile. You feel like life dealt you lemons and you can't make lemonade. You're just drowning in the sourness. It's ok. Look in the mirror and force a smile. You'll feel sooo silly that even a laugh will come out. This is natural and actually good for you. If it's hard to smile, just think of a joke and share it. The fact that you thought of a joke means that you have humor. Benjamin Franklin said "Trouble came knocking at the door, hearing laughter it quickly scurried away." So share a joke with me, I will laugh with you.

Well I hope this post brought a smile to your face as it did to me while I was writing. As someone who has been through a lot of ups and downs, facing uncertainty and loss, these are proven tips that worked for me. Don't let life turn you bitter, let it make you better. ^^