Where do you find inspiration? Sometimes my soul feels all dried up and ready to blow away. I know this is happening because the symptoms are obvious: I get irritated easily, feel depressed, and generally find myself having a pity party for no good reason. These telltale signs remind me it’s time to re-charge my soul battery.

I love going to church and have a wonderful pastor, who makes religion meaningful and reminds me that I have a purpose in life. But sometimes I need more than encouraging words at church on Sunday. That’s when I am drawn to seek additional inspiration.

The good news is I can fill up my half-empty glass in a number of ways. The easiest? Make a nice healthy meal. There’s something so meditative and peaceful about mixing together fresh, beautiful ingredients to create a tasty dish that I can share with my family. Last night I whipped up a casserole with eggplant, homemade sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, garlic, and tomato sauce—plus a bit of mozzarella cheese, oregano, and basil. Yum! It was the highlight of my day.

Another way I recharge my soul battery is to seek out an art gallery or museum. Being in the presence of creativity always feeds my soul. Besides, art challenges your mind to see the world in a different way, and when we view things from a different perspective, we become more open to change. Open minds are more accepting and less judgmental, and we can all use more of these attributes, don’t you think?

Last but not least, I find my soul-fix out in nature. I know it’s February, not exactly the best month to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. But you’d be surprised at the little things you notice in winter: the way the sunlight filters through the bare trees, the texture of the deep green moss that covers the logs, the trill of the sparrows and finches that flit among the trees, and the feel of the wind on your rosy cheeks. It’s impossible for me to be in a bad mood when I commune with nature, no matter what the season.

Try it yourself. Head to the woods and feel your soul fill up with joy. Or visit a warm museum or cozy art gallery and marvel at the creativity of humankind. And every day if you can, spend time in the kitchen preparing something yummy to eat. Forget your troubles and focus on these simple activities. I promise you’ll feel happier and better able to face the challenges of life.

Have an inspiring month, and Happy Valentine’s Day!

Love, Peggy