After 2 and a half years of undergrad I have learned many things inside and outside the classroom, and one of those things is that stress is NOT a silent killer. Stress can knock you down and make you feel like a tap dancer is laying out the best routine on your forehead. So, what can we do when we need to take a step back and reevaluate?
Well, after a much-needed jam session with my girl Amy Winehouse and a good cry, I have adopted a new hobby that has literally helped me take pieces of moments in my life and categorize them into a wacky collage of awesomeness.
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Scrapbooking—trust me my friends, you will want to break out the glitter glue and cardstock after reading this!
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This Christmas, my boyfriend gave me the ultimate gift (prepare to either gush from the adorableness or throw up from the gushy feelings—take your pick). He personalized a scrapbook for me based on the Pixar movie “Up;” one of my all-time favorites. Since he knew of my crafty ways (i.e. my crazy crocheting phase of 2016-2017…his mother still sends me pics in the cute scarf I made for her) he got me a polaroid camera to snap retro pictures and display them anyway I like inside my book.
This activity has been so therapeutic, and after the first week back from break I have already taken advantage of its’ healing qualities. Taking 30 minutes of your time to do an activity you love can really help you gather yourself after a long and arduous day. Whether it’s playing video games, reading, watching an episode of your favorite show, or journaling…the possibilities for de-stressing are endless! Crafting has certainly been the best method for me to unwind.
HCXO,
Marisa