The human brain is the most beautiful and complex organ in the human body. It controls our movement, senses, thinking, etc. I like to describe it as the center of your internal universe - the sun, if you will. My sun has created beautiful thoughts of positivity, and other times, it has been clouded with negativity and self-judgment. I have never really understood the importance of self-love and self-care as it pertains to what flows in and out of my mind, how to take hold of those clouds, and how to make sure the good outweighs the bad.

It wasn’t until last semester, when negativity came knocking at my door every day, that I finally understood. I learned the importance of self-affirmations, the beauty of prayer and protecting my peace. So what exactly did that look like? “Unfolding and Unpacking” as my favorite writer, Alex Elle, would say, can do wonders and will always be worth it. I unfolded the bad and sifted through the negativity. This included stress from school, friendships/relationships falling to the waste side and just feeling crappy about my life. If I could overcome, then so can you. Sift through and unpack the negativity. Then, fold and repack. Fill your mind with positivity and encouragement. You are capable and strong enough to do it.

Now, what exactly is clouding your sun, and what will it take for you to unpack the bad and repack with the good? Is there something of the past that you need to let go of? See, the past has a funny way of holding hands with us and never wanting to let go. It influences future decisions, stunts growth, and clouds judgment. Understand that the past is in the past for a reason and has no place in your present.

Are the people in your space bringing you peace and positivity? If not, remove them. Added negativity in any capacity within your space will never help bring or maintain your positivity or protect your peace of mind. This could be a family member contributing as well. As sad as that sounds, they are not always excluded. Severing relationships is not easy, but potent people halt your ability to grow, remain positive and love earnestly. Let them go.

Maybe it’s also how you view yourself personally. Don’t apologize for being yourself. You have a lot to offer, and you are enough. Your mind is beautiful, your personality is dope, and your image is immaculate (if no one has told you today, consider it done). Self-affirmations and sweet words toward yourself are just as, if not more, important than hearing them from someone else.

Finally, find your happy place. What is your happy place? What do you love to do in your spare time? This could be a cool hobby such as photography or painting or even just blasting music and dancing in circles in your living room. It may also be spending time with whomever you call on spiritually or religiously. For me personally, it’s a combination of music, splatter painting, and a park date with Jesus. A space where you can breathe a little easier will always be needed so take full advantage of the peace of mind it brings.

Pinpoint what seems to cloud your sun. You are fully capable of letting the negativity float away as quickly as it came. I know this is easier said than done, but have faith that the clouds will pass. Know that you are not the only one that has clouds in front of your sun. Reach out and grab some ears to talk to if need be. Make changes to those you allow in your space. Do whatever you feel is necessary to let go and repack with some pretty groovy thoughts and affirmations. Most importantly, know that those negative thoughts can be cleared away. They are temporary, not permanent.