We're experiencing chronic stress, which blocks our ability to hope. Here's why: the amygdala, the brain's alarm center, reacts with fight, flight, or freeze (Akil & Nestler, 2023; LeDoux, 1996). This reaction can save our lives in an emergency. When we're in a crosswalk and see a car speeding toward us, we can react by stopping or jumping out of the way.
This article was originally published on Dec 26, 2017. To pass the time, I've been playing 2016's Doom on the Switch. I tend to lose myself in a game or two every holiday season, but never before has one clicked like this-let alone one that I've previously beaten on another platform. I've come to the inescapable conclusion that Doom is the ultimate holiday game. Let's run down the reasons.
The Martinez man was gifted a "Godzilla rage room" for his birthday. It was complete with a mini cardboard replica of Tokyo. He dressed as the iconic giant lizard to destroy the city. His wife posted about the experience on social media, saying it was a "stress outlet" for him after a tough year.
and I demonstrate how art can gently tip the scales back toward harmony. Think of visual art as a toolkit to soothe the mind and spirit. Every day, we are inundated with imagery urging us to work harder, buy more ... and never stop. Art offers the exact opposite. It slows and calms us down, sharpens our critical thinking, nurtures happiness, and helps us resist the endless cycle of consumption.
On a cold Monday afternoon in Hyde Park, London, a small group of people gather by the Huntress fountain chatting softly among themselves. Nothing about the group would seem unusual to passing dog walkers and runners until they huddle together and one starts a countdown. On three, a collective scream cuts through the park. The outburst lasts only a few seconds before giving way to laughter.
Whether you're a desk-fidgeter, a party host with a flair for chaos, a fan of small-space crafts that are cuter than actual puppies, or just need a legit serotonin boost on demand, consider this your ultimate toy chest. There's zero gatekeeping-if it's quirky, oddly soothing, or about to turn your next hang into a low-key event, it made the list.
