The Misunderstood Magic of Melancholy
To fix or create, that is the question; only Melly the muse knows.
The Misunderstood Magic of Melancholy
Why do we feel the need to justify our melancholy?
You wake up in a mood that’s less than sunny, and suddenly, everyone, including yourself, is searching for a reason. Was it the dream you can’t remember? The weather? Sometimes, there’s no grand explanation for it.
Personally, I’ve decided to make friends with my melancholy, Melly, as I call her. When Melly shows up, if I don’t channel her energy into creativity, she can spiral into something darker. She’s a fickle muse, but she inspires nonetheless.
Here’s the magic that works for me when Melly pays a visit:
Creative outlets: Writing, cooking, and learning something new.
Movement: A fast-paced walk or hike and playing with my neighbors dog.
Music: Tuning into my go-to playlist.
One of the hardest parts about having Melly the muse around isn’t even her presence, it’s how other people react to it. Melancholy has been misunderstood for generations. We are conditioned to want to fix everything, aren’t we?
Well-meaning friends and family ask, "What’s wrong?" as if there must be a reason. I get it, they care. But sometimes I just want to karate chop my way out of the conversation.
And don’t even get me started on the response when you answer with something like, “I just woke up on the wrong side of the bed.” Cue the floodgates of solutions and sympathy. I appreciate the concern, but sometimes, there’s really nothing to fix.
Let’s embrace melancholy for what it is: a fleeting visitor that helps us get creative, as long as we don’t let it grow into something heavier.
I’m not a professional and there is a difference between melancholy and clinical depression. If you’re in doubt, seeking professional guidance is brave and important.
Do you see the magic of melancholy and use it as a muse?
Lori K Today reflects on life through mostly short fictional stories. Focusing on mental health, wellness, and experimenting with Human Design.
Perfect timing - woke up hormonally melancholy today and this article was the pick-me-up I needed. I've never considered melancholy as a muse, but I have learned that my body will give me things that I need when I need it if I pay attention. It brought me a gift today - on my morning walk I was slower than normal and ended up in conversation with an artist looking for new places to sketch. We walked for a bit together so I could point out beautiful places for her to notice. It was a lovely encounter.
Oh my gosh! This is so timely!
From what you’re describing, melly was keeping me company last night. Usually I can immediately come up with a reason for the visit, a late night before, feeling unwell, not tackling my to-dos (this is usually my go-to).
Anyway, I had done so much that day, that I couldn’t blame it on not doing the to-do’s or on anything else. So I was like…this is weird, there’s no reason.
So this was needed. Thanks!