
With his solo debut Practice Magic and Seek Professional Help When Necessary, Alex Toth, of indie duo Rubblebucket,
“This is annihilation,” he sings in opener “Down for the Count,” contrasting oblivion with a simple list of needs in “No Reason”: “I want to be happy for no reason…I want to be touched, but softly at first.” Over and over again, Toth attempts to name emotions and feelings that are as difficult to pinpoint as the album’s pop charm is to properly name. Today at Aquarium Drunkard, the singer/songwriter joins us to examine a few of the items in his emotional and mental toolkit, and his observations reveal that his album’s title is more than a clever comment on the self-care movement we all find ourselves considering, but rather, a code of openness and directness that finds careful application in his life and creative work. words/j
Pick up the phone and talk to people
It’s intense and uncomfortable being in your body sometimes. When you talk to another person it can calm your breathing and lower stress hormone levels. Even more effective if you meet in person.
Dance in front of a mirror
For me, the stranger the dance moves the better.
Make a gratitude list
Listing off five things you’re grateful for
Drink water , consume ginger, get exercise
Your muscular core is what holds you up. Keeping it strong, hydrated, and well-circulated is crucial. I consume ginger in some form every day.
Practice little rituals
Short daily silent meditations. Read a page from Tao Te Ching. Light sage and
Light candles
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Listen to and/or createdrones
Tarot, astrology and other divination arts
There’s only so much we can “figure out” in our lives with logic and reason. I find utilizing these alternative divination methods to be helpful at laying things out sometimes.
Remember you don’t have to be “crazy” to see a therapist
Meditation and spells
You kind of “become” what you think and feel about. I believe my best work and biggest personal transformation has come from all the hours I’ve spent in silence, meditating.
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