The Link Between Movement and Mood

Posted on January 12, 2026January 5, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

Movement Isn’t About Fitness—It’s About Survival

For most of human history, we moved because we had to. We walked, lifted, squatted, carried, climbed. Our bodies and brains evolved expecting regular movement. When movement disappears, mood often follows. This isn’t about chasing a workout aesthetic—it’s about keeping your nervous system regulated.

How Movement Affects the Brain

Movement directly influences brain chemistry. Physical activity increases dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins—chemicals responsible for motivation, calm, and emotional stability. At the same time, movement helps regulate cortisol, the stress hormone that stays elevated when we’re overwhelmed, anxious, or burnt out.

Even low-impact movement can create noticeable changes. A short walk, stretching, or light chores can interrupt spirals of anxiety or low mood by shifting the brain out of fight-or-flight mode.

Why Sitting Too Much Messes With Your Mood

Long periods of inactivity slow circulation, stiffen muscles, and reduce oxygen flow to the brain. Over time, this can contribute to fatigue, irritability, brain fog, and even depressive symptoms. The body interprets prolonged stillness as a form of stress—especially when paired with screens and constant mental stimulation.

Anxiety, Depression, and the Role of Movement

Movement gives anxious energy somewhere to go. When the body releases physical tension, the mind often follows. For depression, movement can feel impossible—but it’s one of the most effective tools available. It doesn’t require motivation first; motivation often shows up after movement begins.

This doesn’t mean intense workouts. Gentle, consistent movement is often more effective than forcing high-intensity routines that increase stress.

The Nervous System Connection

Movement helps reset the nervous system. Rhythmic activities like walking, rocking, stretching, or yoga activate the parasympathetic system—the part responsible for calm and recovery. This is why repetitive, steady motion often feels grounding and soothing.

You Don’t Need a Gym to Improve Your Mood

Mood-boosting movement doesn’t have to look like exercise. Cleaning, gardening, dancing in the kitchen, pacing while thinking, or even stretching before bed all count. The goal is regular motion, not perfection.

Consistency Matters More Than Intensity

Five minutes of daily movement is more powerful for mood regulation than an hour-long workout once a week. Consistency teaches the body safety and stability. Over time, movement becomes a form of emotional maintenance rather than a chore.

Listening to Your Body Instead of Punishing It

Movement should support your mental health, not become another source of pressure. Some days call for strength, others for softness. The body communicates what it needs—when we slow down enough to listen.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

The Long-Term Effects of Never Fully Resting

Posted on January 5, 2026January 5, 2026 by gigis ramblings

I’ve always been the type to pack every day full—late nights, early mornings, and hitting the ground running the moment I wake up. Even when I’m asleep, I never feel fully at rest. My mind keeps racing, my body stays tense, and I wake up drained, not refreshed. Over time, I’ve realized that never truly resting isn’t just exhausting—it takes a serious toll on your body and mind.

Sleep That Doesn’t Recharge

It’s easy to think that getting seven or eight hours of sleep is enough. But when you’re never fully relaxed, those hours don’t count. Tossing and turning, waking up multiple times, or just lying there thinking about everything you “have to do” prevents your body from entering deep, restorative sleep. The result? Chronic fatigue that no amount of coffee or energy drinks can fix.

How It Affects Your Mind

When your brain never gets a proper break, it shows. I notice it in memory lapses, poor focus, and a growing sense of anxiety that never seems to leave. Stress hormones stay high, leaving you in a constant state of fight-or-flight—even during moments meant for rest. For me, this mental strain is the hardest part. Even when I try to relax, my mind won’t let me.

Physical Consequences

Chronic lack of rest isn’t just in your head—it affects your body too. Immune function drops, aches and pains worsen, and long-term risks like high blood pressure or heart issues quietly increase. I’ve learned the hard way that pushing through fatigue day after day can leave lasting damage, even if it doesn’t feel urgent now.

The Vicious Cycle

The more exhausted you feel, the harder you push. Early mornings, late nights, juggling multiple responsibilities, caffeine—these all feel like survival strategies. But the harder you push, the more impossible true rest becomes. It’s a cycle that feeds itself, and breaking it takes awareness and effort.

Related: How I Start the Year Calm

Finding Real Rest

Rest isn’t just about lying down. For me, it means actively creating space for my mind and body to recover. That could be setting a bedtime routine, unplugging from screens, taking a short nap, or practicing breathing exercises. It’s not laziness—it’s repair.

The Takeaway

Never fully resting doesn’t just make daily life harder—it slowly erodes your mental, emotional, and physical health. I’ve lived it, and I can tell you: prioritizing rest isn’t optional. Small, intentional steps to truly recharge can make a world of difference. You deserve to wake up feeling like yourself again.

Why Laughing Until You Cry Is Good Medicine

Posted on August 18, 2025August 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Pexels from Pixabay

The Power of Genuine Laughter

Everyone has laughed so hard that tears rolled down their face at least once. That kind of laughter is more than just a funny moment—it’s a natural medicine for the body and mind. Researchers have found that deep, uncontrollable laughter releases a flood of feel-good chemicals that improve mood, reduce stress, and even ease physical pain. Unlike a polite chuckle, a full belly laugh engages the lungs, diaphragm, and heart, creating a workout that boosts energy and circulation.

Stress Relief That Actually Works

Life can feel overwhelming, but laughter cuts through tension in an instant. When you laugh until you cry, stress hormones like cortisol drop, while endorphins rise. This natural shift makes you feel lighter and more at ease. Instead of holding onto frustration, laughter acts like a reset button for your nervous system. That’s why watching a comedy or swapping funny stories with friends often leaves you calmer, even when nothing about your situation has changed.

A Natural Painkiller

Believe it or not, laughter has been shown to reduce pain. The endorphins released during hard laughter act as the body’s own painkillers. In fact, studies suggest that people can tolerate discomfort better after a good laugh. The physical release that comes from laughing until you cry loosens tight muscles, lowers blood pressure, and promotes relaxation throughout the body. It may not replace medicine, but it can certainly make tough moments easier to handle.

Strengthening Social Bonds

One of the most powerful benefits of laughter is its ability to connect people. When you share uncontrollable laughter with someone, the bond strengthens instantly. Tears of joy break down barriers, creating intimacy and trust. Friendships built on humor often last longer because laughter helps navigate conflict and stress. In families, laughter creates cherished memories, turning ordinary days into stories retold for years.

Boosting Mental Health

Laughter until tears isn’t just fun—it’s therapy. Mental health experts recognize humor as an effective tool for managing anxiety and depression. Laughing hard brings a sense of perspective, reminding you not to take everything so seriously. It interrupts cycles of negative thinking and replaces them with moments of joy. Over time, building laughter into your daily life can improve resilience and emotional balance.

Physical Health Benefits You Might Not Expect

The effects of laughter reach far beyond mood. Regular, hearty laughter can strengthen your immune system, making it easier to fight off illness. The deep breathing involved improves oxygen flow, which benefits the heart and brain. Some studies even suggest that frequent laughter may protect against heart disease by improving blood vessel function. While it shouldn’t replace a healthy lifestyle, laughing until you cry adds an extra layer of protection to overall well-being.

Ways to Laugh More Often

Finding more laughter in your day doesn’t have to be complicated. Watch a comedy special, read a funny book, or follow humor accounts that genuinely make you laugh. Spend time with people who have a natural sense of humor. Play silly games with your kids or grandkids. The more opportunities you create for laughter, the more likely those tear-inducing giggles will come. And when they do, let them flow freely—your body and mind will thank you.

Final Thoughts

Laughing until you cry is more than a fleeting moment of fun. It’s a medicine that lowers stress, reduces pain, strengthens relationships, and boosts both mental and physical health. The best part? It’s free, easy to access, and enjoyable. So the next time something makes you laugh so hard you can’t stop, don’t hold back. Those tears of laughter are proof that your body is healing in the most joyful way possible.

Perimenopause Is Kicking My Ass: A Survival Story 11 Years in the Making

Posted on July 17, 2025July 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Kenny Holmes from Pixabay

When It All Started

If you had told me back in 2014 that I’d still be riding the perimenopause rollercoaster in 2025, I would’ve laughed in your face. Then again, maybe I wouldn’t—because I’d be too busy squinting through an ocular migraine, bloated like I swallowed a watermelon, and Googling “what does a stroke feel like?” at 2:30 a.m.

I hit puberty early, had kids early, and pretty much ran my reproductive system like a demolition derby. So yeah, maybe it makes sense that the “change” kicked in sooner than average. But 11 years? That ain’t a change—that’s a damn lifestyle.

The First Symptom: What the Hell Was That?

My periods were once like a Swiss watch—every 28 days, no fuss, no drama. I naïvely assumed menopause would be the same. Spoiler alert: it is not.

My first warning sign? An ocular migraine. I wasn’t even a headache person, so when I suddenly started seeing through what looked like a vibrating Coke bottle, I panicked. I thought I was having a stroke. That led to my first of many ER visits, CT scans, and puzzled doctors who all patted my head and told me I was “fine.” Except I wasn’t.

Heart Racing, Bloating, and Full-On Night Terrors

Not long after the migraines, I started waking up around 2-3 a.m. with my heart racing like I was being chased by something invisible and terrifying. My stomach would swell up like I was nine months pregnant, and the acid reflux would hit like a freight train. The cycle always ended the same: me freezing cold, shaky, and sure I was dying.

Turns out, these were nocturnal panic attacks—but they weren’t just “in my head.” I later learned the connection between gut issues and the vagus nerve. When my bloated stomach compressed that nerve, it triggered heart palpitations and panic. Vicious cycle, right?

These episodes led to countless EKGs, a panic disorder diagnosis, and one incredibly unhelpful doctor who refused to believe hormones were the root cause. I bought a KardiaMobile (a portable EKG), taught myself how to read it, and started using Calm magnesium powder and beta blockers at night. That combo has helped a ton—but those episodes? Still scary as hell.

Overachiever Hormones: Because Normal Would Be Too Easy

Most women my age with thyroid issues develop hypothyroidism. Not me. I went full throttle with hyperthyroidism. Racing heart? Check. Sky-high anxiety? Check. It took a kind-hearted ER doc following a hunch to even catch it.

A couple years in, things got real weird. I had a full year of bizarre neurological symptoms—brief waves of heat through my tongue, weird little patches of chill bumps (always near my right knee), and eye floaters that looked like black worms swimming across my vision. Then came the daily headaches. Three months straight of head pain and a doctor who thought 800mg of Advil every six hours was a sustainable plan.

That little plan destroyed my gut, left scar tissue on my liver, and killed my gallbladder. My food started going through me undigested—yes, as gross as it sounds—and I was sick for two full years while everyone shrugged.

The Gallbladder Saga

My gallbladder wasn’t your typical lazy slacker. Oh no, mine was hyperkinetic—constantly dumping bile, whether it was needed or not. My white blood cells were sky high, my face was flushed, and I was running out of energy and patience. It took forever to get a diagnosis, and even then, most surgeons in my area wouldn’t touch it.

Thanks to the internet and some life-saving Facebook groups, I figured out how to manage it myself with TUDCA, ox bile, and digestive enzymes. If I skip my enzymes for a couple days, I feel it immediately. But with them? I can function like a semi-normal human.

Weight Gain, Anemia, and the Ice Cravings from Hell

I gained weight—some from the hormonal chaos, some from steroid treatments, and all of it against my will. Then the heavy periods started turning into hemorrhages, and I became severely anemic. I ended up needing iron transfusions. Anemia brought its own party favors: hair loss, constant dizziness, and an uncontrollable craving for ice. Like, I go through two 10-pound bags of Sonic ice every single week.

Normal Symptoms? Yep, Got Those Too

Joint pain? Sure, but I knocked that out with collagen peptides. Mood swings? You bet. Brain fog? Constantly walking into rooms and forgetting why. Random body aches, brittle nails, dry skin, hormonal acne, sleepless nights—you name it, I’ve probably had it.

Hot flashes, though? Strangely, I’ve never had one. That’s one thing I hope stays off my perimenopause bingo card.

Why Don’t Women Talk About This?

I spent years thinking I was losing my mind. My doctor dismissed me. My symptoms didn’t fit the neat little boxes. I joined several perimenopause Facebook groups, and finally—finally—I stopped feeling so alone. Turns out, millions of us are silently suffering because nobody wants to talk about the reality of perimenopause.

So now, I talk about it. I make sure my daughters know exactly what this phase of life can look like. I even keep a spreadsheet to track my cycles, symptoms, supplements, and mood swings. You know, like a hormonal war journal.

Will It Ever End?

The average woman spends 4–5 years in perimenopause. Some are lucky with just a year or two. And then there’s me—year 11, holding strong, breaking records, and earning gold stars in reproductive overachievement.

Maybe one day I’ll write a book about this whole chaotic journey—assuming I survive it. But for now, I’ll keep managing my symptoms, advocating for myself, and sharing my story so other women don’t feel as lost as I did.

Because if perimenopause is going to kick my ass, the least I can do is drag it into the light and give it a name.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

What It Means to Be Okay with Stillness

Posted on July 16, 2025July 17, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Kirill Averianov from Pixabay

In a world that praises hustle and constant movement, stillness can feel like laziness or wasted time. But being okay with stillness isn’t about giving up—it’s about learning how to be present without needing to fill every moment.

Let’s talk about why stillness matters, what it really means, and how you can start to feel comfortable with it.

Stillness Isn’t Emptiness

Stillness isn’t the absence of productivity. It’s not doing nothing—it’s allowing your mind and body a chance to just be. That could look like sitting on the porch watching the wind blow, or lying in bed without reaching for your phone.

It’s in these quiet moments that we often hear the thoughts we’ve been drowning out. Stillness gives space for clarity, reflection, and even creativity.

Why We Resist Stillness

Many of us were raised to believe that doing more is always better. So when we sit still, we start to feel guilty. Our brains whisper things like:

“You should be doing something.”
“This is lazy.”
“You’re falling behind.”

But none of those things are true. They’re just the noise of a world that equates worth with busyness.

How to Start Embracing Stillness

Learning to be okay with stillness takes time. It’s a skill, just like anything else. Here’s how to ease into it:

Start Small

You don’t have to sit in silence for hours. Try taking five minutes a day to pause—no screens, no music, no multitasking. Just breathe.

Redefine Productivity

Stillness can be productive in its own way. It’s where you recover, recharge, and reconnect with yourself.

Pay Attention to What Shows Up

When you sit still, you might feel discomfort at first. Let it come. Notice it without judgment. The more you practice, the easier it gets.

The Quiet Moments Hold Power

Stillness doesn’t mean you’ve stopped growing. In fact, growth often begins in the quiet. It’s in the pause that we find strength, balance, and sometimes even answers we’ve been chasing for too long.

Being okay with stillness means giving yourself permission to rest, to listen, and to just be. Not because you earned it—but because you deserve it.

Signs You’re Not Just Tired, You’re Spiritually Exhausted

Posted on June 29, 2025June 29, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Engin Akyurt from Pixabay

We all get tired—physically, mentally, emotionally. But there’s a different kind of tired that hits deeper. The kind that no nap, day off, or bubble bath can fix. If you’ve been feeling off lately and can’t quite put your finger on it, you may be spiritually exhausted.

This kind of burnout doesn’t just sneak up on you—it builds slowly, quietly, until one day, you feel completely disconnected from everything that once made you feel alive. Here’s how to tell if you’re not just tired… you’re soul-deep exhausted.

You Feel Disconnected from Everything

You’re surrounded by people, but you feel alone. Conversations feel shallow, and the things that used to bring you joy now just feel like items on a to-do list. Spiritual exhaustion can make the world feel like it’s moving around you, but you’re not really in it. You’re watching life happen instead of living it.

Motivation Has Left the Building

Tasks that used to be easy now feel overwhelming. Even getting out of bed can feel like climbing a mountain. You’re not lazy—you’re drained. When your spirit’s running on empty, motivation naturally fizzles out. It’s not about being unwilling, it’s about being unable to care.

You’re Emotionally Numb or Extra Sensitive

Some days you feel nothing. Other days you feel everything all at once. Small things either don’t affect you at all or make you completely unravel. That emotional imbalance is a sign your inner self is screaming for attention and rest.

You Crave Silence but Fear Stillness

You might avoid your own thoughts because being still makes you uncomfortable. At the same time, you’re desperate for silence because the noise of life feels too loud. It’s a paradox that makes you restless and uneasy, and it often shows up during spiritual depletion.

You Start Questioning Everything

Your purpose, your relationships, your path—nothing feels clear. It’s like the fog rolled in, and you can’t see more than a few feet ahead. You’re not just tired; you’re spiritually lost and craving some sort of sign to get back on track.

You’re Constantly Running on Empty

Even after a full night’s sleep, a weekend off, or a vacation, you still feel wiped out. That’s a big red flag. Your body’s rested, but your soul is still weary. No amount of physical rest can fix a soul that’s been neglected for too long.

You’ve Lost Your Sense of Joy and Wonder

Remember when the little things used to light you up? A sunrise, a good song, a deep conversation? If none of that moves you anymore, your spirit might be crying out for reconnection. Life hasn’t gotten dull—you’ve just lost your spark.

You’re Easily Irritated and Overwhelmed

Every little thing feels like too much. You find yourself snapping more often or shutting down altogether. This isn’t just stress—it’s the symptom of being completely drained. Your capacity is shot, and your spirit is waving the white flag.

You’ve Pulled Away from Spiritual Practices

If you used to pray, meditate, journal, or spend time in nature—and now you don’t—it might be because you’ve fallen out of alignment. When you’re spiritually exhausted, even the things that used to refuel you can feel pointless. But ironically, they’re what you need most.

How to Start Refilling Your Cup

The good news? You don’t have to stay stuck in this place. Start small. Step away from the noise. Sit with your feelings. Spend time with people who light you up. Revisit the things that once made you feel connected—even if just for five minutes. Get outside. Cry if you need to. Be honest about what’s not working in your life.

Most importantly, don’t ignore the signs. Your spirit matters just as much as your body and mind. When it’s run down, everything else eventually follows. You’re allowed to rest. You’re allowed to feel. And you’re allowed to come back stronger and more whole than ever.

If this hit a little close to home, you’re not alone. Spiritual exhaustion is real—but healing is, too. Start with compassion. Add in some space. The rest will come.

What Healing Actually Looks Like in Real Life

Posted on June 24, 2025June 25, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Rang Oza from Pixabay

Most people picture healing like a movie montage—quick, tidy, and with a feel-good soundtrack. But real life? It’s messier. Healing rarely arrives in a straight line, and it definitely doesn’t show up on schedule. The truth is, it can be confusing, clumsy, and unexpectedly beautiful.

Let’s talk about what healing actually looks like—outside of therapy quotes and Instagram reels.

You Still Cry Sometimes

Healing doesn’t mean the pain is gone. It means you’ve learned to live beside it. You might still cry when a song hits too hard or when a memory sneaks up out of nowhere. That’s not failure. That’s healing.

You’re no longer trying to shove it down or run from it. You’re allowing the emotion to exist without it owning you.

You Outgrow People (and Places)

It might sting a little when you stop reaching out to the friend you used to tell everything to. Or when that once-comforting place now makes you feel small.

Healing often means stepping into a new version of yourself—and that version might not fit into your old life. That’s okay. You’re not being cold. You’re being honest with your needs.

Some Days Feel Like Setbacks

You’ll have days where it feels like you’ve made zero progress. You might snap at someone you love. You might stay in bed all day. That doesn’t erase all the good days.

Healing is recognizing that one hard day doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you’re still human—and you’re still working through it.

You Protect Your Peace (More Often)

One subtle sign of healing? You stop explaining yourself so much. You begin setting quiet boundaries. You might leave a room when the energy shifts, turn your phone off when you’re overwhelmed, or say no without guilt.

You start realizing your peace is precious—and that’s a huge win.

You Celebrate the Little Wins

Maybe you didn’t cry today. Maybe you finally called the doctor. Maybe you sat outside and felt the sun on your face without your thoughts racing.

Healing shows up in tiny ways. And those tiny moments? They stack up and become big victories over time.

You’re Kinder to Yourself

That voice in your head—the one that used to be brutal? It softens. You might still get frustrated, but now you catch yourself.

Instead of spiraling into shame, you say, “I’m doing the best I can.” That shift? That’s healing, plain and simple.

You Start Looking Forward Again

One day, without realizing it, you’ll laugh from your belly. You’ll make plans for next week. You’ll get excited about something again.

It may feel foreign at first—like trying to walk in a new pair of shoes. But it’s your heart reminding you that it still believes in joy.

Real Healing Isn’t Always Pretty

Sometimes healing looks like crying on your kitchen floor, journaling until your hand hurts, or going for a walk just to breathe.

It’s unfiltered. It’s real. It’s raw.

But underneath it all is something powerful—hope. The kind that says, “Even if I’m not there yet, I’m still moving forward.”

5 Ways I Reset My Life When Everything Feels Off

Posted on May 2, 2025May 4, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Amit Karkare from Pixabay

Sometimes life just feels… off. Like your energy’s weird, your house is a mess, and your brain is yelling “nope.” When that happens, I don’t panic. I just hit my personal reset button. Here’s how I do it—quick, simple, and no fluff.

1. I Tidy One Room—Just One
Trying to clean the whole house? Overwhelming. But cleaning one room? Totally doable. I usually start with the bedroom. It sets the tone for everything else. And let me tell you—nothing hits like walking into a clean, calm space.

2. I Write It All Out
Grab a notebook or the back of a receipt, I don’t care. I just brain dump everything. What’s bothering me, what I need to do, what I’m avoiding. Somehow writing it all down makes it feel 100% more manageable.

3. I Drink Water and Go Outside
Simple? Yep. Effective? You bet. Half the time, I’m not in a funk—I’m just dehydrated and haven’t seen daylight in 3 days. A big glass of water and a short walk changes everything.

4. I Do a Phone Detox
Not forever. Just for a few hours. I put it on silent and do something offline. Read. Cook. Blast music and dance in the kitchen like nobody’s watching (they aren’t, thankfully). Anything to break that endless scroll spiral.

5. I Go to Bed Early, No Shame
When all else fails, I restart with sleep. I shut it all down—lights, TV, brain, everything. A full night’s rest fixes way more than we give it credit for.

I don’t always get it perfect, but this little list pulls me out of the weird zone every time. When life feels off, you don’t need a total overhaul. Just a few small steps to feel human again.

Which one are you trying first?

Stay Hydrated: Easy Tips for Drinking More Water

Posted on April 30, 2025April 30, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Nawal Escape from Pixabay

We all know water is crucial for our health, but even the most obvious things bear a friendly reminder every now and then. Drinking enough water helps our bodies in countless ways, from keeping our skin glowing to helping our brain think clearly. It’s easy to forget to drink when life gets busy. But remember, staying hydrated can lift your mood and boost your energy. It helps you feel your best overall.

Surprising Benefits of Water

Water does more than just quench thirst. For example, drinking plenty of water can help digestion. It breaks down food and keeps things moving smoothly in your gut, preventing those uncomfortable tummy troubles. Another cool perk is joint health. Our joints have a cushioning called cartilage that needs water to stay healthy and flexible. When you’re well-hydrated, your joints won’t feel as stiff or achy.

Plus, did you know water can even give you more energy? Sometimes that afternoon slump is just mild dehydration. A glass of water can clear foggy thinking and give you a pep in your step. Staying hydrated can also improve your mood and concentration. You’ll feel ready to tackle anything.

How Your Body Uses Water

Think of water as a superhero in your body. It’s in your blood, your cells, and all your vital organs. Every second, it works hard for you. Water helps your blood carry nutrients and oxygen to cells. It also flushes out waste so your body can operate smoothly. Plus, it even helps regulate your body temperature when you sweat on a hot day or during exercise. With enough water, your body’s “machinery” runs more smoothly. It’s like giving your system the fuel it needs.

Tips for Drinking More Water Every Day

Sipping more water doesn’t have to be hard or boring. Try carrying a fun water bottle with you as a reminder to drink throughout the day. You can even set mini goals, like finishing a bottle by lunch or refilling it a few times. Make it a habit by drinking a glass first thing in the morning and another before dinner. Setting little reminders on your phone can also help keep you on track. Also, sneak water into daily routines. Have a glass after brushing your teeth or take a sip between tasks or during TV commercials.

Another neat trick is to switch up your drinks. For example, drink water instead of soda or sugary juices sometimes. You could also replace one cup of coffee or tea with a glass of water each day. Over time, these small swaps can add up. It’s a big hydration win!

Make It Fun with Infused Water

If plain water feels dull, try adding flavors you love. I personally like to make a gallon of infused water a few times a week. My favorite combo is strawberry, cucumber, and mint – it tastes like a spa day in a glass! Another go-to is lemon and lime together for a tangy kick. Sometimes I toss in blueberries and a squeeze of lemon for a sweet-tart twist.

You can experiment with any fruits, herbs, or veggies. Just slice them up and add them to a pitcher of water. Let it chill in the fridge for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors mix in. Then, pour yourself a glass and enjoy the refreshing taste.

I find I drink so much more this way because it actually tastes delicious. Plus, you still get all the perks of plain water, just even tastier.

Keeping up your water intake is easier than you think. Small changes like these can add up quickly. Soon enough, you’ll notice more energy, better digestion, and even happier joints. Keep that water flowing – your body will thank you. Cheers to feeling refreshed and enjoying every sip!

Are We Too Obsessed with “Main Character” Energy?

Posted on April 26, 2025April 26, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Jill Wellington from Pixabay

We’ve all seen it: the girl walking slowly through the crosswalk with her iced matcha and sunglasses, vibing to a song only she can hear. The TikToks with people declaring “main character energy” as they romanticize everything from grocery shopping to crying in the rain. On the surface, it seems empowering—owning your moment, being bold, making your life feel like a movie. But at what point does celebrating yourself turn into something a little… much?

What Even Is “Main Character” Energy?

“Main character energy” started as a fun reminder to stop coasting and start living with intention. And hey, there’s nothing wrong with that. Who doesn’t want to feel like the star of their own story? The idea is to add meaning to everyday life, to notice small joys, and to build confidence. All good things! But somewhere along the way, it got twisted. What began as a lighthearted trend now sometimes feels like a full-time performance.

Social Media Turned It Into a Show

Social media, of course, plays a huge role in this shift. We’re constantly seeing curated content that makes ordinary lives look like cinematic masterpieces. That trip to Target isn’t just a quick errand anymore—it’s a moment. A photoshoot. A chance to show the world how aesthetically pleasing your reusable bags are. Even something as mundane as making your bed or sipping tea is suddenly part of this larger, polished narrative. It can be fun—but it can also feel fake.

Unrealistic Expectations Start to Build

What’s more, this obsession with constantly being the main character can set up some unrealistic expectations. If every day isn’t packed with magic, growth, or an inspirational moment, it can start to feel like you’re doing something wrong. Not every morning is a sunrise jog followed by journaling and a picture-perfect breakfast. Sometimes the alarm doesn’t go off, your coffee spills, and you forget to put on deodorant. That doesn’t make you less important. It makes you human.

Comparison Is the Thief of Joy (Again)

There’s also the issue of comparison. Watching others live out their “main character” fantasy can make you question your own life. If you’re not jet-setting to dreamy locations or having deep, poetic conversations in a candlelit apartment, are you even doing it right? Yes. You are. Not every story has to look the same. Some people are on an adventure arc. Others are in their healing era. And some of us are just trying to get through Tuesday without screaming into the void.

You Don’t Have to Perform Every Day

The truth is, you don’t need to be the main character all the time. Sometimes you’re the comic relief, the background extra, or the person who just holds the door open. That doesn’t make your story any less meaningful. The quiet, unfiltered moments are just as real and valuable as the highlight reel. You don’t need a camera angle or a voiceover to matter.

So, Are We Too Obsessed?

Maybe. But that doesn’t mean we should throw the whole concept out. Let’s just bring it back to what it was meant to be: a little nudge to pay attention to our own lives, to be present, and to stop waiting for permission to enjoy ourselves. Just don’t lose yourself trying to be a star in someone else’s movie. Write your own script—flaws, mess, boring Tuesdays and all.