For one of my classes, I am reading about knowledge and the different ways people obtain knowledge. According to the author of my thick, heavy, textbook one of the ways people obtain knowledge is through conversation. That is one of the reasons why I love writing, because right now, we are having a conversation. No, my mouth isn’t moving, and I have no idea who I am ‘talking’ to but someone is reading this and someone is hearing me out. In the terrible world of being a lost ‘twenty-something’ I think learning through conversation is extremely important. So, what I want to talk about today is the ways I personally stay sane these days, and whoever is reading this will hopefully learn a thing or two.

1. Lavender
   1. Once I got word that lavender naturally reduces anxiety and stress, improve sleep, and alleviates headaches, I became obsessed. I have a huge lavender candle, lavender pillow spray that I cannot sleep without and I take weekly lavender bubble baths. And honestly, I think it helps and if nothing else, the routine itself does. When I light my candle at night after a long day, I always feel in my most relaxed state.
2. Workouts
   1. I work out at least 4 days a week at The Edge Fitness Clubs. In CT, there is basically one in every major town and that’s because it is the best gym ever. They have excellent equipment, trainers, classes, and a super motivating environment. Working out releases endorphins to your brain, which makes you happier J
3. Chocolate
   1. Remember in Harry Potter when the death eaters come on the Hogwarts Express and Professor Lupin gives Harry chocolate to help his headache? I saw that and was like OH now I have an excuse, thank GOD. Since then, I HAVE to eat chocolate at least once a day and I am not sorry. Health benefit of chocolate include: heart health, reduced stress, higher intelligence, etc.
4. Lists
   1. There is nothing more satisfying to me than making a to-do list and crossing things off. I also make lists of goals, aspirations, and basically anything else. It is just much less overwhelming to see things all laid out for me.
5. Netflix
   1. During the day, pretty much all I think about is when I am going to be able to get in bed and watch Netflix on my iPad mini. However, I have to ‘deserve’ it, and only can watch when I am done with my day. Netflix is my reward, treat it as that and you’ll love it even more.
6. Camelbak water bottles
   1. Drinking water is SO important, we have been told that our whole lives. I drink at least a gallon a day and no not like those meat-head gym people that walk around with a literal plastic gallon like a savage. I have a pretty, monogrammed, turquoise water CamelBak water bottle. (link to camel) (link to preppy and proud). It fits in my car cup holder, 100% leak-proof, and has a lifetime guarantee. I drink about five of them a day, and you will, too.
7. Journaling
   1. My journal won’t disagree with me, or fight me on my opinions. It won’t ignore my calls or make me feel rejected. My journal is my safe space where I can express how I feel about anything and everything. I write my lists, favorite recipes and ultimate vent sessions in there and it never fails me.
   So far, those are the things I can't live without. As the days go on, I am sure I will find more little things that help me cope, stay tuned :)