Breaking Free from the Urine-Scented Nightmare: How a Happiness Wall Saved My Sanity
I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with New York City. Five years ago, I reluctantly moved here, and it’s been a constant struggle to find my place. But when I impulsively signed a lease in Oregon earlier this year, I thought I’d finally found my escape route. That was until the pandemic hit, and my plans were put on indefinite hold.
As I navigated the uncertainty and isolation, I found myself stuck in a rut, surrounded by half-packed boxes and a sense of hopelessness. It wasn’t until my therapist gave me a much-needed wake-up call that I decided to take matters into my own hands. I re-established my self-care routine, including taking my anxiety meds, practicing yoga, and indulging in face masks and masturbation. But the real game-changer was creating a happiness wall – a space dedicated to showcasing the things that bring me joy and comfort.
The Concept of a Happiness Wall
A happiness wall is more than just a pretty display; it’s a thoughtful curation of items that evoke feelings of warmth, happiness, and fulfillment. It’s not about aesthetics or social media validation; it’s about creating a space that sparks joy and represents your hopes, dreams, and best memories.
The Science Behind Happiness Walls
Experts agree that happiness walls have the potential to improve our mood and overall well-being. According to Symonne Kennedy, LMSW, a psychotherapist at The Gender & Sexuality Therapy Center in NYC, “Having a wall of happiness-producing things is exactly the kind of thing that could lift one’s spirits!” By focusing on the positives and exerting control over our environment, we can regain a sense of autonomy and agency.
My Happiness Wall: A Reflection of My Pleasure and Joy
So, what’s on my happiness wall? I’ve curated a collection of items that bring me pleasure and comfort, including:
- Photos and illustrations of places I love, including a commissioned piece from a local Oregon illustrator
- Pleasure products that remind me of my sexuality and sensuality
- Quotes that serve as a positive reminder of how I want to live and navigate the world
- Photos of my friends and loved ones, which stimulate feelings of connection and togetherness
- A collage created from old postcards and Playboy magazines, showcasing my creativity and resourcefulness
Tips for Creating Your Own Happiness Wall
- Command strips are your friend: Use them to hang your artwork and decorations without damaging the wall.
- Make use of bookshelves: Showcase your favorite books, decorative items, or heavy artwork on top of your bookshelves.
- Try command strip hooks: Perfect for hanging items like keys, hats, or pleasure products.
- Take your time: Don’t rush the process – build your happiness wall gradually, and let it evolve as your needs and desires change.
In the end, creating a happiness wall has been a game-changer for me. It’s helped me find joy in the midst of uncertainty and has given me a sense of control over my environment. Who knew that a little arts and crafts, combined with some command strips, could make all the difference?
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