(aka How to Calm the Fk Down)
We’ve all been there: stressed out, broken, ready to scream into the void. Sometimes, you just need a break. So here’s the deal: today, we’re going full-on Druid mode. Or at least pretending to. Because, honestly, the world sucks, and sometimes you need a bit of magic and nature to just breathe.
Here’s how to do it.
How I came to this idea
A few weeks ago I was drawing a druid in my old sketchbook. Prompted by Paintable’s one week character (although I was doing it months later),It was just a small silly sketch and I liked it, but didn’t really feel the need/urge to finish it or do more with it. It remains an unfinished idea in my notebook… Until today. I thought what would it be to be a “modern druid“? I take this back and edit my post because I am sick of pretending everything is alright. The world is too much and let’s just pretend to be Druids, ok?
I also made this sketch available for free use without copyright at Wikimedia Commons. Maybe one day I will scan it and make it available properly. Bare with me, I can barely exist.
Disclosure: I am mostly thinking about the D&D druid class, and not the Celtic religious leader kind.
Treats and snacks
- Teas and infusions: Most days, a hot drink helps me feel better about life. If your thing is iced drinks, just change it… I’m not your mom to tell you what to do.
- Pies and cakes: Pastries filled with berries and nuts help with the chill vibe (maybe something like a hobbit meal?), but sometimes we just need sweets. Anything that you can snack on and feel comfort.
- Nut cookies: Earthy and nutty treats align with the woodland Druid stuff– but maybe your thing is chips and savory. Go for it.
- Honey: The perfect addition to your tea or cookie. We can then imagine opening some doors for druids, hobbits, and elves to join our party.
Of course I couldn’t resist sharing some of my artwork about the foody-goodies!
Activities
- Forest Bathing (Shinrin-yoku): I felt blissful and joyful when I discovered hikes on the hardest year of my life. Spending mindful time in nature, absorbing the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest (or beach??) is very soul-healing. Don’t ignore it!
- Eco-crafting: Creating tools, clothes or objects from natural materials sounds like fun.
- En plein air: Painting outdoors to really stop time for a while. I don’t know about you but painting and drawing really makes it all better.
- Wildlife photography: Take your camera or smartphone and go for a hike. Look for birds, squirrels, or any wildlife and take photos! As a modern (make-believe) druid you might not be able to connect with wildlife, so this is the best we can do.
Sharing some nature adventures I’ve had. I loved that kitty hat!
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, remember that this isn’t about “fixing” your problems. It’s about having a break for a while. It’s not about being perfect or having all the answers…it’s just about existing in the moment, without all the pressure. So when you’re done, don’t overthink it. Just feel whatever it is you’re feeling, and know that’s enough.
