Like every other teenager nowadays, I am addicted to my phone. Any time I get a break from schoolwork or chores, my eyes jump straight to my screen, where I am lured away by social media. The opportunity to scroll is too tempting at times, but over the years, I’ve found some healthier alternatives to the endless engagement of our electronics. Here are a couple of my favorites:
- Diamond art:
A distracting and dazzling way to spend any afternoon. The best part is there’s no mess like with traditional paintings, with the fear of spilling water or paint. Each set comes with all the components you need: the canvas, diamonds, stylists, gum, and tray. Most sets are reasonably priced for hours of entertainment.
- Clay:
If you want a more hands-on art form, clay is one of my favorites. Despite the messiness, the process is truly immersive, and the result is pretty and practical pieces. Making gifts for my family and friends is so fun, and they always love it, regardless of my skill. Just make sure to invest in some kind of “smock” so you don’t ruin any nice clothes.
- Scrapbooking:
I’ll admit, when I hear the word “scrapbooking,” I think of old ladies with books of the kids’ naked baby pictures adorned with glitter. But scrapbooking has quickly become one of my favorite pastimes recently. The main thing to remember is that there are no rules. A page can become anything you want, so be creative and have fun.
- Writing:
In my opinion, if you have an issue in your life, you need to write it down. Organizing our thoughts is often a lot more difficult when it’s floating around our brains than when it’s written on paper. So if you want to really clear your mind, take out a pen and paper and just start writing. Even if you don’t have an issue, writing can still be a great creative outlet. It doesn’t matter if it’s prose or poetry, fiction or nonfiction, good or bad. The goal is to get your brain working, regardless of the results.
- Crocheting:
I promise I am not a grandma, but crocheting is a surprisingly relaxing activity. Once you get the hang of it, the repeating pattern actually creates a welcome calm. I love making simple squares and seeing the yarn connect into a blanket or shawl. If fashion is one of your passions, be sure to pick up some crochet hooks and yarn next time you’re at a craft store.
