Why Laughing Until You Cry Is Good Medicine

Posted on August 18, 2025August 20, 2025 by gigis ramblings

The Power of Genuine Laughter

Everyone has laughed so hard that tears rolled down their face at least once. That kind of laughter is more than just a funny moment—it’s a natural medicine for the body and mind. Researchers have found that deep, uncontrollable laughter releases a flood of feel-good chemicals that improve mood, reduce stress, and even ease physical pain. Unlike a polite chuckle, a full belly laugh engages the lungs, diaphragm, and heart, creating a workout that boosts energy and circulation.

Stress Relief That Actually Works

Life can feel overwhelming, but laughter cuts through tension in an instant. When you laugh until you cry, stress hormones like cortisol drop, while endorphins rise. This natural shift makes you feel lighter and more at ease. Instead of holding onto frustration, laughter acts like a reset button for your nervous system. That’s why watching a comedy or swapping funny stories with friends often leaves you calmer, even when nothing about your situation has changed.

A Natural Painkiller

Believe it or not, laughter has been shown to reduce pain. The endorphins released during hard laughter act as the body’s own painkillers. In fact, studies suggest that people can tolerate discomfort better after a good laugh. The physical release that comes from laughing until you cry loosens tight muscles, lowers blood pressure, and promotes relaxation throughout the body. It may not replace medicine, but it can certainly make tough moments easier to handle.

Strengthening Social Bonds

One of the most powerful benefits of laughter is its ability to connect people. When you share uncontrollable laughter with someone, the bond strengthens instantly. Tears of joy break down barriers, creating intimacy and trust. Friendships built on humor often last longer because laughter helps navigate conflict and stress. In families, laughter creates cherished memories, turning ordinary days into stories retold for years.

Boosting Mental Health

Laughter until tears isn’t just fun—it’s therapy. Mental health experts recognize humor as an effective tool for managing anxiety and depression. Laughing hard brings a sense of perspective, reminding you not to take everything so seriously. It interrupts cycles of negative thinking and replaces them with moments of joy. Over time, building laughter into your daily life can improve resilience and emotional balance.

Physical Health Benefits You Might Not Expect

The effects of laughter reach far beyond mood. Regular, hearty laughter can strengthen your immune system, making it easier to fight off illness. The deep breathing involved improves oxygen flow, which benefits the heart and brain. Some studies even suggest that frequent laughter may protect against heart disease by improving blood vessel function. While it shouldn’t replace a healthy lifestyle, laughing until you cry adds an extra layer of protection to overall well-being.

Ways to Laugh More Often

Finding more laughter in your day doesn’t have to be complicated. Watch a comedy special, read a funny book, or follow humor accounts that genuinely make you laugh. Spend time with people who have a natural sense of humor. Play silly games with your kids or grandkids. The more opportunities you create for laughter, the more likely those tear-inducing giggles will come. And when they do, let them flow freely—your body and mind will thank you.

Final Thoughts

Laughing until you cry is more than a fleeting moment of fun. It’s a medicine that lowers stress, reduces pain, strengthens relationships, and boosts both mental and physical health. The best part? It’s free, easy to access, and enjoyable. So the next time something makes you laugh so hard you can’t stop, don’t hold back. Those tears of laughter are proof that your body is healing in the most joyful way possible.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

Dorm Room Trends 2025: Make It Feel Like Home

Posted on August 12, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Leaving home for the first time can be exciting and overwhelming. For many freshmen, this is the first time they’ve slept anywhere other than their childhood bedroom for more than a few nights. The key to easing that transition is making the dorm feel like a true home-away-from-home. Bring items that hold personal meaning—photos of family and friends, a favorite blanket, or a keepsake from your hometown. Surrounding yourself with familiar things helps create comfort in a new space.

Decorating for the First Time

Decorating your first dorm room is a rite of passage. It’s the moment when a blank, cinderblock-walled space becomes your personal sanctuary. Peel-and-stick wallpaper, removable decals, and fabric tapestries are all great ways to bring color and personality without breaking any housing rules. Cozy rugs, plush throw pillows, and string lights can turn even the most basic dorm into a warm and welcoming retreat.

Small touches go a long way—layering bedding for texture, mixing patterns for personality, and displaying books or plants to add a lived-in feel. Your room should reflect who you are while still being functional for everyday student life.

Top Dorm Decor Trends for 2025

Designer Mood Boards – Affordable kits that include color palettes, style guides, and inspirational prints are making it easy to create a cohesive room design without hiring a professional.

LoveShackFancy-Inspired Romance – Soft pastels, scalloped bedding, rattan mirrors, and floral prints are giving dorms a whimsical, cozy feel.

Bold Accents – Cheetah print, cobalt blue, and emerald green are being used as statement pieces in rugs, throw blankets, and wall art.

Ambient Lighting – LED strips, fairy lights, and portable projectors are turning dorm rooms into multipurpose spaces perfect for studying or winding down.

Comfort Core – Cozy, lived-in style is trending across campuses. Think oversized comforters, plaid bedding, chunky knit throws, and farmhouse-inspired touches. It blends practicality with a sense of warmth that feels very “home.”

Essentials for Comfort and Function

To make the most of a small space, multifunctional furniture is a must. Loft beds with desks underneath, storage ottomans, and rolling carts maximize every inch. Under-bed storage bins keep things organized, while noise-canceling headphones or a sunrise alarm clock can make daily life more comfortable.

For a cozy feel, invest in a good mattress topper, soft bedding, and an area rug. Even a few real plants can boost your mood and make the space feel more inviting.

Making It Yours

A dorm room should tell your story. It’s the first place that’s truly yours, even if you’re sharing it with a roommate. Display your passions—sports memorabilia, art prints, or DIY crafts. Hang photos from home alongside new college memories. The more your room reflects you, the more it will feel like a place you belong.

The Science Behind Why We Love Comfort Food

Posted on August 8, 2025August 11, 2025 by gigis ramblings

fried chicken mac peach cobbler potatoes

Image created with Canva AI

Comfort food isn’t just about taste—it’s about the way it makes us feel. From creamy mashed potatoes to gooey mac and cheese, these foods bring a sense of warmth and familiarity that’s hard to match. But have you ever wondered why certain meals feel like a hug in edible form? The answer lies in psychology, biology, and even our personal history.

What Counts as Comfort Food?

Comfort food is typically defined as dishes that evoke nostalgia, emotional warmth, or a sense of safety. While the actual foods vary from person to person, they usually share common traits—they’re rich, hearty, and often tied to family traditions or happy memories.

In the United States, comfort foods might include fried chicken, chili, biscuits, or casseroles. For others, it could be a dish from childhood or a recipe passed down for generations. The key factor is the emotional connection we have with the food, not just the flavors on the plate.

The Brain’s Reward System

When we eat comfort food, our brain reacts as if we’ve just accomplished something rewarding. Foods high in fat, sugar, or salt trigger the release of dopamine—a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward. This creates a temporary boost in mood, which explains why we might crave these foods after a stressful day.

Some research also shows that comfort foods can stimulate serotonin production. Serotonin is the “feel-good” chemical that regulates mood and helps us feel calm. This connection between food and brain chemistry is a big reason why we reach for these dishes when we need emotional support.

The Role of Nostalgia

One of the most powerful elements of comfort food is nostalgia. Many of our favorite comfort foods are tied to childhood experiences, family gatherings, or special occasions. When we eat them, we’re not just satisfying hunger—we’re revisiting a memory.

Psychologists call this “associative learning.” If your grandmother made chicken and dumplings every Sunday, your brain may now link that dish with love, safety, and connection. Years later, even smelling those ingredients can trigger a wave of comfort.

Cultural and Regional Influences

Comfort foods often reflect cultural traditions and regional flavors. In the South, for example, biscuits and gravy or cornbread might be considered comfort staples. In New England, it could be clam chowder. These dishes tell a story about where we grew up and the people who shaped our tastes.

Even within the same family, comfort food preferences can differ depending on individual experiences. That’s why your favorite “warm and cozy” meal might be completely different from someone else’s.

Stress, Emotions, and Cravings

Stress plays a big role in why we crave comfort food. When we’re under pressure, our bodies produce more cortisol, a hormone linked to increased appetite. Comfort foods, with their rich flavors and satisfying textures, provide a temporary escape from that stress.

In some cases, comfort eating is a coping mechanism. While it’s fine in moderation, it’s important to be mindful. Using food as the primary way to handle emotions can create unhealthy habits over time.

The Social Connection

Comfort food is rarely just about the food itself—it’s often about who we share it with. Eating a favorite dish with friends or family can amplify its emotional benefits. Research has shown that communal meals can boost feelings of belonging and happiness.

This is why certain holidays or gatherings center around beloved recipes. The food brings everyone together, strengthening relationships and creating new memories.

Why We Keep Coming Back for More

In the end, comfort food is a combination of biology, psychology, and tradition. It triggers pleasure chemicals in the brain, taps into nostalgia, and often connects us to others. That’s a powerful trio—no wonder we keep reaching for these dishes when we need a little pick-me-up.

So next time you dive into a bowl of creamy mac and cheese or take that first bite of peach cobbler, remember—it’s not just your taste buds that are happy. Your brain and your heart are, too.

If You Feel Behind Right Now, Read This

Posted on August 7, 2025August 8, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Tumisu from Pixabay

We’ve all been there. You wake up one morning and suddenly feel like everyone else has their life together—except you. Social media is showing everyone’s highlight reel, your to-do list is a mile long, and you feel like you’re drowning.

First off, you’re not alone. Second, you’re not as “behind” as you think.

Everyone’s Timeline Is Different

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your life to someone else’s. But here’s the truth—there’s no universal timeline for success. Some people find their dream job at 25, others start a business at 50. Some meet their partner in high school, others at the grocery store while buying frozen pizza.

The pace of your life doesn’t make it less valuable. Your experiences, skills, and growth happen on your schedule, not anyone else’s.

Social Media Isn’t the Whole Story

Scrolling through endless photos of vacations, new houses, and career wins can make you feel like you’re missing out. But remember, you’re only seeing the curated version. Behind the scenes, those same people have challenges, setbacks, and late-night “what am I doing?” moments.

If you want to feel more grounded, try stepping away from constant scrolling for a bit. Focus on your own progress without the constant mental comparison.

Celebrate the Small Wins

One of the fastest ways to stop feeling behind is to acknowledge what you’ve already accomplished. Did you get out of bed even though you didn’t feel like it? That’s a win. Did you knock out a work task you’ve been avoiding? Another win.

Momentum builds from small victories. Each tiny step forward is proof that you’re moving—no matter how slow it feels.

Progress Doesn’t Have to Be Big

A lot of people get stuck thinking they need giant, life-changing moves to catch up. In reality, small, consistent actions add up faster than you think. Ten minutes of reading each day can turn into several books a year. Setting aside a little money each week can grow into a savings cushion.

Don’t underestimate the power of small steps—they can change your entire trajectory.

Focus on What You Can Control

Feeling behind often comes from obsessing over things you can’t change. Instead of replaying what you should have done, put your energy into what you can do next. You can’t go back and redo the past, but you can make one decision today that moves you forward.

Ask yourself: “What’s one thing I can do right now to make tomorrow easier?” Then do that thing.

Give Yourself Credit for Surviving Hard Seasons

Sometimes the fact that you’re still here is the biggest win of all. Life throws curveballs—health struggles, job losses, family emergencies—and getting through them takes strength.

If your energy has gone into simply holding things together, that doesn’t make you lazy or unmotivated. It makes you human.

Your Story Isn’t Over

No matter how far behind you feel, your next chapter hasn’t been written yet. Every single day is a chance to pivot, to learn, to create something new. You’re not stuck unless you decide to stay stuck.

So take a deep breath, give yourself some credit, and remember—you’re not racing anyone. You’re simply living your story at your own pace, and that’s exactly how it’s supposed to be.

Behind the Scenes: What I Really Do All Day

Posted on August 1, 2025August 3, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Ever wonder what it really looks like to work for yourself from home? Spoiler alert: it ain’t always pretty, but it works for me. Here’s a peek behind the scenes at what I actually do all day—and how I keep everything running without losing my mind.

My Day Starts Before the Sun’s Up

Like clockwork, I’m up at 5:00 AM. First things first: I make my husband’s lunch and drive him to work. It’s our little ritual, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. By 6:00, I’m back home and jumping into the shower—sometimes with my favorite podcast, other times catching up with my go-to TikTok live host. That’s my way of easing into the day.

But I don’t jump straight into work. I let the early hours stay slow and simple on purpose.

The Fun Stuff Comes First

I don’t officially “start work” until after Santiago’s first break at 8:40 AM. We always chat for a few minutes—that call marks the true start of my workday. Before that, I use those quiet hours for all the lighter stuff:

Catching up on the news
Skimming through emails
Cleaning up the kitchen or tidying the house
Posting or scrolling through my business socials
Packing orders from Mama Crow’s

It’s work, but it’s the fun kind. The stuff that doesn’t feel like work at all. It helps me ease into the heavier tasks that come later.

The Real Hustle Kicks In

Once 9:00 hits, it’s time to dig into the real work. I’m blessed to be able to set my own hours, which gives me the freedom to work how I want—but that also means I have to keep myself in check.

I’ve got two regular clients I contract with, and I sometimes take on ad-hoc projects too. That means copywriting, editing, blog content, or whatever else they need. On top of that, I manage two of my own blogs, make and list new wax melt products for Mama Crow’s, and keep up with content across Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Snapchat, TikTok, and Pinterest.

Yep. It’s a lot.

Lunch Dates, Even From Afar

At 11:30, it’s time for a lunch break—but not just any lunch. We’ve got a standing phone lunch date every weekday, unless it’s Friday. On Fridays, I drive to town to bring him lunch in person. We’ll sit in the car, eat, and catch up like a real date—just one that happens in a parking lot. It might sound silly, but after nearly 16 years together, it’s still one of my favorite parts of the day.

Back to the Grind (Wherever I Am)

After lunch, I work until it’s time to go pick Santiago up from work. And yes, I’m usually working in the car while I wait. If something’s due or I’ve still got creative energy, I’ll even work a couple more hours in bed that evening.

I know it might sound like a lot, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I’m an introverted homebody, so staying in my own space while still getting everything done is a blessing.

Schedules Keep Me Sane

Living with OCD means I need structure, or else everything falls apart. I use Google Calendar to block off time for each client, blog, and Mama Crow’s tasks. If something pushes me off schedule, it’s like a domino effect—and I don’t like chaos.

That’s why I plan every part of my day, from order packing to TikTok posting. It keeps my head clear and my business running smooth.

Why It All Works for Me

Some folks think working from home means sleeping in and lounging around. Not in this house. My day is packed, but it’s built around my priorities—my marriage, my sanity, and my business. I get to choose what matters most, and no job will ever come before my relationship.

We stay in constant contact, we support each other, and we make time for the little things—like a five-minute phone call or lunch in a parking lot. It’s unconventional, but it works for us.

So yeah, that’s what I really do all day. It might not look glamorous, but it’s honest work, and it’s all mine.

A Beginner’s Guide to Unplugging

Posted on July 31, 2025August 19, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

If you’ve ever said, “I just need a break,” but immediately grabbed your phone… this one’s for you. Unplugging isn’t about disappearing into the woods for a week (unless you want to). It’s about creating breathing room in a world that never stops buzzing, dinging, or updating. This beginner’s guide will help you ease into the habit without making it feel like punishment.

What Does “Unplugging” Even Mean?

Unplugging is simply stepping away from screens and digital noise. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. You don’t need to toss your phone in a lake. Instead, it’s about being intentional with your time and attention.

Whether you want to scroll less, focus better, or just feel more human again—unplugging helps reset your brain and reconnect with your real life, not just your online one.

Why Unplug at All?

The world is loud. We get notifications for texts, emails, likes, breaking news, and even people going live on apps we forgot we had. All of that pulls our attention in a hundred directions. Over time, it can wear us out.

Some benefits of unplugging include

Better sleep
Improved mood and reduced anxiety
More focus and creativity
More time for the stuff that actually matters

Plus, you won’t be doomscrolling at 2 a.m. wondering why you feel so drained all the time.

Start Small and Keep It Real

You don’t have to go off-grid to see results. Start with baby steps that fit into your lifestyle.

Set “No Phone” Zones
Pick a few places where phones are off-limits. The dinner table, bedroom, or bathroom (yes, really) are great places to start.

Try a Tech-Free Hour
Choose one hour a day where you don’t use any screens. No phone, no laptop, no TV. Just you and the real world.

Turn Off Notifications
The constant pings are designed to keep you hooked. Turn off non-essential notifications or set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” during focus times.

Use Apps to Help You Unplug
Ironically, some apps help you use your phone less. Apps like Forest, Focus Keeper, and Freedom block distractions and keep you on track.

Plan Offline Activities
Fill the gap with something fun or productive. Read a book, go for a walk, cook a new recipe, or just sit on the porch and be for a minute.

How to Handle the Digital Detox Jitters

Let’s be honest—at first, you might reach for your phone without thinking. That’s normal. Your brain is used to the dopamine hits from scrolling. You’re not lazy or weak; it’s just how these tools are built.

Here are a few ways to get through that uncomfortable phase

Keep your hands busy (journaling, doodling, knitting, etc.)
Tell someone you’re unplugging for accountability
Keep your phone in another room when possible
Replace screen time with something that fills you up emotionally

The more you practice, the easier it gets.

Set Boundaries Without Guilt

You don’t owe anyone 24/7 access to you. Let folks know when you’ll be unavailable or off your phone, and don’t feel bad about it. Setting boundaries is healthy—and necessary.

Want a weekend unplugged? Tell your people. Taking one night a week away from screens? Block it off. Your well-being matters more than a quick text reply.

You Don’t Have to Be Perfect

Unplugging isn’t a competition. You’re not failing if you check your phone or binge-watch a show now and then. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s balance. Being more present, more mindful, and less reactive to every ding or scroll urge is progress.

Give yourself grace. Some days will feel easier than others. The point is to create space where your brain and soul can breathe.

Final Thoughts

Unplugging doesn’t mean turning your back on the digital world—it just means not letting it run your life. Little by little, you can reclaim your time, energy, and focus. You’ll be amazed how much more grounded, creative, and calm you feel when you step away from the noise.

What I’d Tell Someone Starting a Side Hustle Today

Posted on July 30, 2025July 31, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Daniel Chrisman from Pixabay

Starting a side hustle can feel exciting, overwhelming, and honestly, a little scary. Whether you’re chasing a dream, building a backup plan, or just looking to bring in some extra income, the journey is full of lessons. If I were talking to someone starting out today, here’s exactly what I’d tell them.

Start Before You Think You’re Ready

Waiting until everything is “perfect” will leave you stuck. Most people delay because they think they need a website, a logo, a brand, or even a big audience. Truth is, you don’t need any of that to begin.

Just start. You learn so much more by taking action than by sitting on the sidelines planning. Whether it’s selling handmade goods, offering a service, or launching digital content, done is better than perfect.

Don’t Spend a Bunch of Money Upfront

You don’t need a big budget to get started. Use what you have. Your phone, internet, and social media accounts can go a long way.

There are free and low-cost tools like Canva, Google Docs, and email platforms that help you build as you go. Focus on delivering value instead of trying to look like a polished brand from day one. That part can come later.

Stop Worrying About What People Think

One of the biggest things that holds folks back is fear—especially fear of judgment. You might wonder what your friends, family, or coworkers will say. Here’s a secret: most people are too wrapped up in their own lives to dwell on what you’re doing.

If they do judge you, that says more about them than it does about you. The people who matter will cheer you on. The rest? Let ‘em watch.

You’ll Learn More By Doing

You don’t need to be an expert to get started. You’ll figure things out as you go. It’s okay to make mistakes—they’re part of the process.

Sure, listen to podcasts or take a short course if you want to—but don’t let “learning” become a way to avoid action. Take messy steps forward. That’s how real progress happens.

Be Consistent Even When It’s Slow

The beginning can feel like a grind. You might post content and hear crickets. You may make zero sales in your first week. That’s normal.

The difference between people who succeed and people who quit is simple—consistency. Keep showing up. Keep learning. Keep adjusting. Results compound over time, but only if you stay in the game long enough to see them.

Protect Your Time and Energy

Balancing a side hustle with your regular life is no joke. You’ve got to be intentional with your time. Block out hours in your week just for your hustle. Treat it like an appointment.

And don’t forget to take breaks. Burnout won’t help you hit your goals any faster. You’re in this for the long haul.

Be Willing to Pivot

Sometimes the thing you start with won’t be the thing you stick with—and that’s okay. You might launch one product and realize your audience wants something slightly different. Or maybe you discover you enjoy one part of your hustle more than another.

Pivoting is smart, not shameful. Let the data and your gut guide you. It’s your business—build it in a way that works for you.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about starting a side hustle, don’t overthink it—just start. Take the leap, even if it’s small. Use what you have. Ignore the noise. Be consistent. And know that success rarely shows up overnight.

But if you stick with it, adjust as needed, and keep learning—you’ll be amazed at what you can build.

Where I Find God When I’m Not Looking for Him

Posted on July 29, 2025July 30, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by James Chan from Pixabay

I don’t always go searching for God, but somehow—He always finds me. And most of the time, it’s not during a church service or a formal prayer. It’s in the small, sacred moments I never expect.

He Shows Up in the Silence

It’s funny how loud the world is. There’s always something buzzing, ringing, or demanding attention. But sometimes, in the middle of a chaotic day, everything gets quiet. Maybe it’s early morning before the house wakes up or that hush that follows a thunderstorm. And in that stillness, I feel something I can’t explain. A peace that doesn’t make sense. A knowing that I’m not alone.

I See Him in People

It’s not always in the obvious “church folks” either. I’ve seen God in the kindness of strangers, the patience of a friend who lets me ramble, and the hug from a grandchild that melts every worry away. He’s in the tired woman at the grocery store who still smiles. In the man who holds the door just because. In the person who forgives even when it’s hard. Those glimpses of grace—that’s God all over it.

He Meets Me in the Mess

Let’s be honest. Life gets messy. There are seasons when I feel burnt out, sick, behind on everything, or just plain lost. I’ve questioned Him. I’ve gotten mad. I’ve begged for answers. But even then—especially then—He shows up. Not always with a solution, but with comfort. With reminders that I’m held even when I don’t feel strong. Sometimes it’s a verse that pops into my head out of nowhere, a song on the radio, or a memory that brings tears and healing.

He’s in Nature, Too

I might be from Texas, but God’s not just in the Bible Belt. He’s in the way the sky turns pink just before dusk. He’s in the scent of honeysuckle on a warm day. In the rhythm of the waves when we finally make it to the beach. He’s in the birds that show up just when I need a sign and the wildflowers that bloom where nobody planted them. His creation whispers His presence even when I’m not listening for it.

Unexpected Conversations Bring Him Near

Some of the most God-filled conversations I’ve had didn’t start that way. A simple “how are you?” can turn into a holy moment. A phone call with a friend who just gets it. A heart-to-heart with my husband after a long day. Sometimes those talks turn into confessions, prayers, laughter through tears—and I walk away feeling seen, known, and loved. Not just by the person—but by God Himself.

I Don’t Always Look, but He’s Always There

I’ll admit—I don’t always wake up with my Bible open or my mind on spiritual things. Life happens. But somehow, God doesn’t wait for an invitation. He meets me where I am. On the couch with a headache. At the kitchen sink. In my car on a backroad. In the middle of grief. In the middle of joy. I’ve come to believe He’s not just with us when we call—He’s already there, gently nudging, waiting, comforting.

Final Thoughts

I don’t think we have to chase God down. I think we just have to be willing to notice Him. He’s in the background of our everyday life, weaving Himself into the ordinary. And maybe that’s the most sacred thing of all.

Why I’d Rather Clean a Bathroom Than Answer a Phone Call

Posted on July 22, 2025July 27, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by Markus Spiske from Pixabay

We all have things we avoid like the plague. For me, it’s phone calls. Give me a rubber glove, some bleach, and a dirty toilet any day—just don’t make me answer my phone. It sounds dramatic, I know. But if you’re an introvert, a chronic overthinker, or just plain overstimulated by life, I bet you get it. Here’s exactly why I’ll scrub tile over taking a call every single time.

Phone Calls Feel Like an Ambush

First of all, phone calls are intrusive. They don’t wait for a good time. They demand your attention immediately, ringing with an urgency that makes your heart race even if it’s just your cousin calling to chat. Texts and emails can wait. They don’t expect you to drop what you’re doing, throw on your customer service voice, and perform a verbal tightrope act.

Cleaning the bathroom, however? It’s on my time. I can scrub, spray, and wipe down surfaces at my own pace, no performance required. The toilet never asks, “Did you get my message?” or “Are you free to talk right now?”

Awkward Silences Are Torture

In-person conversations come with body language, facial expressions, and gestures that fill in the blanks. On the phone, it’s just voices—and sometimes, it’s just silence. And not the good kind.

When there’s a pause in a phone conversation, my brain immediately spirals: Did I say something weird? Are they distracted? Should I fill the silence? It’s exhausting.

Meanwhile, when I’m elbow-deep in cleaning supplies, I can enjoy actual silence. Peaceful, productive silence that smells like lemon-scented disinfectant.

Bathroom Cleaning Has Clear Goals

Cleaning a bathroom is gross, but it’s straightforward. There’s a beginning, middle, and end. You know when the job is done. There’s satisfaction in watching grime disappear and seeing everything sparkle when you’re finished.

Phone calls, on the other hand, are unpredictable. You don’t know how long they’ll last, what they’ll be about, or whether they’ll end on a weird note. One minute you’re saying hello, the next you’re hearing about someone’s dog’s pancreatitis or being guilt-tripped into something you didn’t sign up for.

I Can Multitask When I Clean

When I’m cleaning, I can pop in my earbuds and listen to a podcast or blast some music. I can zone out and still be productive. It’s oddly therapeutic.

But when I’m on the phone? I’m stuck. I can’t do much else besides pace around the house pretending to sound engaged. Multitasking during a call feels rude, and let’s be real—holding the phone with your shoulder while scrubbing the sink isn’t exactly ergonomic.

I Have Anxiety and Phones Are Triggers

This one might hit home for more people than you think. Phone anxiety is real. It’s not just being shy or antisocial. It’s the genuine panic that creeps in when your phone rings or when you know you need to make a call.

Sometimes, even thinking about answering makes me nauseous. I start sweating, rehearsing what I’ll say, and convincing myself I’ll sound ridiculous. The bathroom? At least I know what I’m walking into. And I can wear gloves.

I’m Not Alone in This

If you feel this way, you’re definitely not the only one. More and more people—especially millennials and Gen Z—are ditching calls for texts and DMs. We grew up with caller ID, voicemail, and the sweet relief of “Do Not Disturb.” And we learned to love communication on our terms.

It’s not about being rude. It’s about managing mental load, energy, and boundaries.

Final Thoughts

So yes, I’ll gladly choose a toilet brush over a phone call. Not because I love cleaning (trust me, I don’t), but because it gives me control, clarity, and calm—three things that phone calls rarely offer. If you’re like me, know that it’s okay to screen your calls, text back later, and protect your peace. Just maybe light a candle after cleaning the bathroom, too. You’ve earned it.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

How I Clean When I’m Mad

Posted on July 21, 2025July 22, 2025 by gigis ramblings

Image by svklimkin from Pixabay

Ever been so mad you could scrub the paint off the walls? Same. When I get fired up, I channel every ounce of that frustration into something productive—cleaning. It’s not just about tidying up; it’s therapy with a mop in hand. So if you’re the kind of person who needs to do something when you’re mad, this one’s for you. Here’s how I clean when I’m mad and how you can turn a bad mood into a clean house.

First, I Let the Rage Pick the Playlist

Before I touch a single sponge, I grab my phone and put on a playlist that matches my mood. We’re talkin’ angry girl anthems, Southern rock with some bite, or old-school rap that makes you feel like you can throw hands with the dust bunnies. This isn’t a soft, easy listening kind of clean—we’re deep cleaning like our feelings depend on it. And in a way, they kinda do.

I Start With Whatever’s Bugging Me Most

I don’t follow a routine when I’m mad. I go straight for the mess that’s bothering me the most. If it’s the kitchen counter stacked with dishes, that’s where I go. If it’s the laundry that’s been sitting in the dryer for two days, I’ll yank it out like it personally offended me. When I’m in a mood, I let that emotion guide me, and honestly, it works better than any chore chart ever has.

I Clean Harder, Faster, and Meaner

I don’t gently wipe things down—I scrub. I vacuum like I’m mad at the carpet. I slam trash bags around and toss clutter into the trash like I’m tossing ex-boyfriend hoodies (no offense, Santiago). And I swear, the more I clean, the more the anger melts away. It’s like I’m sweeping up my feelings and dumping ‘em out with the crumbs.

I Talk to Myself While I Do It

Don’t judge me, but when I’m mad-cleaning, I talk it out. Sometimes I mutter under my breath. Sometimes I full-on rant while wiping down the fridge. And every once in a while, I’ll laugh at how ridiculous I sound—but by then, I’m already halfway through a deep clean. Bonus: no one wants to interrupt me, so I get to clean in peace.

I Use It As a Reset

By the time I’m done, I usually feel calmer. My house looks better. My mind feels clearer. And even if the thing that made me mad is still lingering, it doesn’t feel quite as heavy. Cleaning when I’m mad gives me a way to reset without taking it out on anyone (or texting something I’ll regret).

I Don’t Aim for Perfection—Just Progress

Let’s be honest: angry cleaning isn’t always methodical. Sometimes I miss a spot. Sometimes I forget to pop in a wax melt or put things all the way back where they belong. But I’m not chasing perfection—I’m just channeling energy. And progress, especially when you’re fired up, is better than sitting around stewing.

Cleaning when I’m mad isn’t just about having a cleaner home. It’s about doing something with the anger instead of letting it eat me up. Plus, nothing feels better than slamming a cabinet shut knowing the junk drawer inside is finally organized.

So next time you’re mad, don’t doom-scroll or fire off that text. Grab a rag and turn that rage into sparkle.