The siren call of the doom scroll is loud—especially during an election week. But remember: watching the news compulsively won't actually change the outcome. So why not take a breather instead? For inspiration, CULTURED has culled some of our favorite self-care tips from previous interviews. Here, an array of artists, designers, performers, writers, and more share the ritual that instantly improves their mood.
“Movies, cigarettes, and a specific blend of antidepressants and benzos [instantly improve my mood].”
–Jemima Kirke, actor
“I read poetry—I like the poem of the day put out by the Poetry Foundation—or take a walk while listening to a poetry podcast. I love the New Yorker’s poetry podcast and The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily.”
–Arden Wohl, poet, designer, director
“I light incense from cinnamon projects (2AM is my favorite) or copal from Mercado Sonora, and sit with my tarot cards.”
–Naima Green, photographer
“I listen to Pantera’s ‘Walk’ very, very loud!!!”
–Audrey Gelman, The Six Bells owner
“I’ve been really into meditation lately. Taking a few moments to close my eyes, focus on my breath, and be present in the current moment allows me to release any racing thoughts or worries. Best-case scenario I am seated outside, in the grass, or perhaps on a rocky cliff in Sedona or high up on a rooftop overlooking the bustling souks of Marrakech.”
–Aurora James, Brother Vellies creative director
“I take a shower. I really enjoy looking at rivulets of water slithering down the glass. There is this infinite unique detail, and focusing on it is grounding. A whole world can exist in a tiny droplet. It’s also a good place for creative ideas, which often don’t need analytical alertness but the hot, isolated mist of a nice shower.”
–Sarah Meyohas, artist
“I draw a hot bath with Bath Roman bath salts. They have one called Muddy Blue that is very warming. Nothing relaxes me faster than an hour or two in the bath with a good book.”
–Liara Roux, writer
“I can’t believe I’m admitting this, but as a Tennessee girl at heart, I love to go barefoot. I know New York streets are horrifically dirty, but I’m not afraid to step outside in the middle of the night and smoke a cigarette on the sidewalk in front of my apartment wearing no shoes. It makes me feel connected to the Earth (or, the generally pretty clean street in Greenpoint). Also, Stevie Nicks.”
–Brock Colyar, writer
“I have a subscription where I get wheatgrass and sea moss that I put in my smoothies. My smoothie regimen really improves my day. It consists of turkey tail mushroom, tremella, and Quinton shots, which I love. I also love my essential oils.”
–Jacolby Satterwhite, artist
“Day drinking.”
–Elena Velez, designer of eponymous brand
“I hop up and down, shake around, flutter my lips. Then place my forehead on the ground, palms up, and breathe.”
–Taryn Toomey, The Class founder
“My mom taught me at a very early age to have facials. It's something she has always treasured as a luxury for herself. She started taking me when I began to have pimples as a teenager. I’ve gone every other month ever since.”
–Ditte Reffstrup, Ganni co-creative director
“As soon as I emerge from my morning shower, I mist myself with rosewater. It’s a simple thing to do but it feels very luxurious and sets the tone for the day.”
–Justin Vivian Bond, cabaret performer
“I use my Headspace app! Every morning I do a short meditation after stretching, and it’s helped improve and balance out my mood so much. Especially during periods when I’m really busy and there’s so much going on in the news, my meditations help so much with staying focused.”
–Oscar Nñ, DJ and Papi Juice co-founder
