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by Alexandra Mansilla
The Small Things That Help In Times Of Uncertainty
In times of uncertainty, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant flow of news and the pressure of everyday responsibilities. While the outside world may feel unpredictable, small personal rituals and hobbies can offer a sense of grounding and stability. Simple activities — creative, physical, or social — can create moments of calm and help bring attention back to the present.
Creative outlets are often among the most effective ways to reconnect with ourselves. Drawing, painting, experimenting with music, or engaging in other artistic practices can help shift the mind away from the noise of daily news cycles. These activities allow space for curiosity, imagination, and play — qualities that are often pushed aside in stressful periods.
As music producer and DJ KLO puts it, reconnecting with creativity can also help us step away from the constant pull of social media:
“Choose an art form that brings out your inner child and helps mute the constant flow of news. It could be taking a DJ class, learning music production, joining a painting class, or even something as simple as using a colouring book. The goal is to reconnect with creativity and step away from your phone for a while — especially in times like these, when social media and doomscrolling can easily overwhelm us. Exploring a hobby that sparks that playful, creative side can make a real difference.”
Curator Cèline Azem shares the same:
“Spending time with art and working on new curatorial projects keeps me inspired and connected to what I love.”
It is no secret that physical movement helps in almost any situation. Going for long walks, getting your daily steps in, or sticking to a simple workout routine can help clear your head and regulate stress. And if going outside isn’t always possible, even light (but regular!) movement at home can make a difference — especially when it becomes part of your daily routine.
When you move, your mind tends to settle as well.
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Cèline sees it in a similar way:
“For me, staying grounded comes down to small rituals. Exercising and taking long walks near my home help clear my mind."
Cooking and baking can also become small moments of comfort. Trying new recipes, preparing a favourite meal, or just spending time in the kitchen can help slow things down and shift your focus away from the constant flow of news.
As Cèline says:
"Cooking or baking and experimenting with new recipes brings a sense of comfort and creativity.”
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Photo: Douglas Fehr
Uncertain periods can also become an opportunity to reconnect with people and projects that often get pushed aside by the pace of everyday life. Catching up with friends we rarely see, dedicating time to books that have been waiting on our shelves, or finally returning to side projects that never received proper attention can all bring a renewed sense of purpose.
These practices may seem small, but when they become part of your routine, they can help you move through anxious moments a little more easily.
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