I challenge you – the next time you see it’s raining outside, go dance in it. (Assuming it’s not accompanied by thunder and lightening or life-threatening winds!)
Can you remember the last time you let your inhibitions go and did that? Just danced in the rain or ran around splashing in puddles? Maybe when you were a little kid, perhaps. But sometime after that, usually our self awareness takes over and we become more reserved in our actions. If you’re not a pluviophile (lover of rain or one who thrives in a rainy environment), you may think this idea is bonkers but I swear to you, there are immediate health benefits.
I was sitting on the deck enjoying an evening rain as I love to do and I suddenly got the urge to go out and feel it on my face, to put my bare feet in the puddles and connect to nature in the simplest of ways. I couldn’t remember the last time I did that. My subconscious was holding me back saying don’t do it, people will judge you. Wait a minute… who’s judging who? And what people? In reality, I was judging myself. The bigger point is, Who Cares! In the grand scheme of things, it doesn’t matter what someone else’s opinion is when it comes to your life. Do what makes you happy and don’t hold back.
I admit that it took some time getting to that point. I played devil’s advocate with myself for a good 15mins, but then I got the courage to get over myself. Mostly out of fear that the rain would stop and I would have the unfortunate experience of regret, knowing that I alone let this moment pass me by. So out I went. No shoes or umbrella needed. At first I just stood there, not knowing what to do. I was like a fawn standing on new legs, unsure of how they’re supposed to work. Then a few steps, a walk, a hop, and after a few minutes passed I channeled my inner Gene Kelly and started dancing in the rain. (Okay, I might’ve sung a little too.) I hopped and twirled around, kicking the puddles and throwing my arms around while the rain gently misted my face. It was beautiful. My smile overtook my cheeks and I felt so free and so light. I wish I could’ve bottled it up. It was exhilarating. Only once did I have to move out of the way for a car who’s driver probably wondered why I was dancing in the rain at night, but I hope they caught my moment of glee in their headlights and it inspired them to dance in the rain as well.
I was out there for so long, my husband started to worry that something was wrong with me. He called my mother-in-law to say I was losing my mind. But no, I was filled with joy. Grateful for the experience and so appreciative of the ability to live it. I wondered why I ever stopped dancing in the rain? It’s one thing to love sitting by a window, enjoying the sound of the rain outside because it can be very soothing and calming, but dancing in it is a whole other emotional and physical experience. It lowers your blood pressure, boosts your mood, and gives you courage! If your make-up is running and your hair is wet, so what! Maybe someone will see you and think “I wish I had the courage to go dance in the rain like that without a care in the world.” So go do it! Dare to step out of your comfort zone and be an inspiration to someone else. Life is too short. Stop second guessing yourself.
Sadly, I didn’t get a video that night, but here’s another one that I hope will inspire you! And if you need more inspiration, then read my post on Reflections and Rain .
