Following on from an earlier post about how the Artist’s Way and journalling helped me when I was feeling very low, I thought I would pass on another tip for beating those dark night’s of the soul ~ walking.  I revisited a poem that sums up how I felt then and I thought I would copy it here for you.  I used to walk 3 to 6 miles a night, regardless of the weather, while it was dark and quiet  so I could think my own thoughts.  The fresh air and exercise is a great way to aid sleep as well as soothe the mind.

Now that I am well I still walk ~ but in daylight and looking outward at the beauty in the world around me ~ not looking inward at my cares and woes.

It may seem obvious, but it may help others to know that the bad times pass.  Life is so short, it is worth living to the full.

Acquainted with the Night

I have been one acquainted with the night.
I have walked out in rain — and back in rain.
I have outwalked the furthest city light.

I have looked down the saddest city lane.
I have passed by the watchman on his beat
And dropped my eyes, unwilling to explain.

I have stood still and stopped the sound of feet
When far away an interrupted cry
Came over houses from another street,

But not to call me back or say good-bye;
And further still at an unearthly height,
A luminary clock against the sky

Proclaimed the time was neither wrong nor right.
I have been one acquainted with the night.

Robert Frost