doom·​scroll ˈdüm-ˌskrōl: refers to the act of continuously consuming negative news or information, often on social media or digital platforms.

I admit it. I’ve been doom scrolling. A lot. Every day, practically every hour brings more bad news. I don’t want to read it, but I end up scrolling and clicking, and it feels not only unhealthy but also unproductive. I realized I needed to stop, and I needed a change.

I’ve dabbled in various creative pursuits over the years, including pottery, jewelry making, embroidery, knitting, and of course photography. But watercolor painting has been calling my name lately. I’ve taken a few classes but I don’t really like painting the way books and classes teach it. What I like about painting my way is how it allows me to shut off my brain and simply create. I put my phone aside, clear my mind, and dabble.

I don’t paint objects, or landscapes, or anything recognizable. I just find colors that speak to me. I block off areas on the paper with washi tape, or not. I move the paint around in different ways. I may add lines or dots or splatters. Then I cut the paper up and put the shapes together in a new way. It is very satisfying, meditative, and relaxing. My goal is to do this at least two or three times a week. If I could do it every day, that would be amazing.

And here’s the thing. This art is just for me. If it pleases other people, that’s great. But for me the joy is in the doing, not the end product. I try not to judge it as “good” or “bad.” Even if I don’t love the results, there’s always some part of it I can salvage to incorporate into the next creation.

Oh, and another bonus? Art and stationery supply stores are my favorite. Even just going to pick out a new tube of color or pen or brush makes me ridiculously happy. And keeps the doom at bay.

What do you love to do that helps you rebalance? Let us know in the comments.

See you soon.

~lucy