Weather stands as a control over everything: mood, situations, etc. If the forecast reads 90 degrees and sunny on a certain day, one plans to go to the beach. Overall, it is an ideal situation. But what if, on your designated beach day, the weather app reads 59 degrees with a chance of clouds and rain? Obviously, that is going to suck.
On almost every one of my birthdays, it rained. Being born on a typical “summer” day, you would expect bright blue skies with the sun blazing on your back. However, it was always quite the opposite. There was not much other than gloom in the sky. My mother always told me that it was because I was blessed, and that the rain signified new beginnings resetting. However, I did not believe that. I simply was just upset that almost every year, I could not go out to the beach for my birthday, or do anything outdoor-related.
But “bad” weather is not all bad — it can also affect one’s mood positively. I am not just talking about when it is too hot or too cold, but specifically rain. Personally, rainy weather is ideal for a warm Sunday evening when I am sitting in my bed with hot tea, a book and a cozy blanket. The pitter-patter of the raindrop on my window sills comes in handy on days when all I want is to stay home and recharge.
Just like all weather, the positive or negative effect depends on the situation. Students, for instance, rarely enjoy driving to school or walking through the halls on days when Florida is experiencing light hurricanes. School already feels burdensome at times, so when it rains heavily, the day becomes even more dreadful.
Eric Ascher, Doctor of Osteopathic medicine, a family medicine physician at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York stated that the smell of rain can have a calming effect on one’s mood, promoting relaxation and acting as an antidote for stress relief. While I would not go so far as to say I look forward to the rain, there is something undeniably comforting about the rawness in the air after a fresh downpour.
As a Miami local, living in the “Sunshine State” is ideal for Vitamin D sufficiency, which helps boost mood. Having the privilege to go outside without a jacket and boots is special. Many students in other states have to trek to school in the most uncomfortable clothing. The warm days make outdoor activities possible year-round.
Because Miami never experiences the cold, the rarity when it comes feels special. Waking up on a November morning and feeling the below-70-degree weather is every Florida girl’s dream. Pulling out the low uggs and the tight-knit cardigans is an experience like no other. Even though we do not get the typical “fall” weather that states in the northeast undergo — the orange and red leaves crunching underfoot or the first sighting of snow — the crisp breeze we experience between November and January feels like magic to our fingertips.
When one wakes up in the morning, it is crucial to check the weather app. This way, the weather will not stop you from enjoying your day. If it is cold, wear something warm that keeps you cozy for the rest of the day. If it is warm, try to dress in light clothing so that you are not overheating and profusely sweating. It is important to be prepared for what’s to come, that way, your mood for the day will not be detected by our very own, mother nature.
These seasonal shifts taught me to appreciate the weather more often, whether it is rain resetting my perspective, or the sunshine infusing my energy. The weather represents the highs and lows of life, and so clearly and effortlessly affects everyone’s day-to-day life.
