Anxious Mind, Peaceful Practices  

In my 23.9 years of living, I’ve been incredibly fortunate when it comes to my physical health. I’ve seen friends go through some serious medical hurdles — appendix removals, broken bones, stitches, surgeries, and even kidney stones.  

But me? None of that, thankfully (knock on wood). Am I maybe a little too cozy with my bag of chips and the couch? Sure. But that’s between me, my snacks, and Hulu to figure out. 

Mental health, though, has been a different story, and I’ve dealt with anxiety for as long as I can remember. My earliest memory goes back to first grade: my mom would drop me off at school, and the moment she left, I’d feel this wave of panic. Back then, I didn’t fully understand what I was feeling, but I knew it was overwhelming.  

Now, as an adult, anxiety is still very much a part of my life. The triggers have changed, but the feeling remains the same. The good news is that over the years, I’ve learned ways to manage it, and I’d like to share just a few with you.  

One activity that joined my “hobby roster” during the early days of COVID was puzzles. While it might seem a bit old-fashioned, puzzles offer numerous mental health benefits: they help shift focus away from anxious thoughts, build cognitive resilience to navigate stressful situations, and reduce screen time. The repetitive process of fitting pieces together or solving patterns can also have a meditative, calming effect on the brain.  

Another way I keep my mental health in check is by going outdoors. I’ll admit there are days when it’s hard to get up and face the world, but having a dog has made a huge difference in my routine — and my mindset. I’m not saying that everyone and their mother should go out and adopt a pet right now, but having a dog means I have to get outside, even when I don’t feel like it.  

Most days, I leave my phone inside and just listen to the world around me as I walk — the birds, the hum of cars going by, the laughter of kids walking to their bus stop. The combination of fresh air, sunlight, and a moment to pause often helps people feel connected to the world around them. Sometimes, taking a photo of a scenic view can act as a small yet meaningful reminder of the beauty present in our everyday moments, even when they feel routine and mundane.  

My most recent pursuit is collaging. There’s something so calming about cutting up old magazines or scraps of paper and piecing them together with your keepsakes. It forces you to focus on the present moment, choosing colors, textures, and images that speak to you. There’s no right or wrong way to do it, and when you’re done, you’re left with a reminder of your ability to create beauty out of chaos.  

These activities don’t cure anxiety, but they can help manage it. And in my experience, even small steps can make a world of difference.   

Now, without further delay, I present to you our 2025 Health & Wellness issue. Happy reading! 

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