Blogging in 2026: Is It Still Worth It?

Posted on January 17, 2026January 12, 2026 by gigis ramblings

I’ve been blogging since 2016. That’s a full decade of hitting “publish” on posts, building an audience, and watching the digital landscape shift dramatically around me. Ten years of riding the waves of algorithm changes, platform trends, and the constant evolution of what “content creation” even means.

So when people ask me if blogging is still worth it in 2026, I get it. Because even after all this time, I still ask myself that question sometimes.

And here’s my answer: Yes. Absolutely. But not for the reasons you might think.

The Reality Check Nobody Talks About

Let’s just get the hard stuff out of the way first, because if we’re going to talk about blogging in 2026, we need to be honest about what it actually looks like.

Growing is slow. Not non-existent—I have readers, I have followers, I have people who engage with my content. But compared to the “overnight success” stories you see on TikTok or Instagram? Blog growth moves at a completely different pace. While social media can explode quickly, blogging is more like compound interest—it builds steadily over time.

The algorithms are unpredictable. Google changes its algorithm and posts that were ranking well shift around. Pinterest updates its priorities and traffic fluctuates. Social platforms prioritize video over links, so getting people to actually click through to your blog takes more strategy than it used to.

It’s time-consuming. Writing a quality blog post isn’t quick. Research, writing, editing, finding images, SEO optimization, formatting, promoting across platforms—it’s hours of work. And unlike a TikTok that takes 10 minutes to film, blog posts require sustained effort.

Competition is everywhere. You’re not just competing with other blogs in your niche anymore. You’re competing with social media, podcasts, YouTube, AI-generated content, and endless digital noise. Standing out requires consistency and quality.

So yeah. If you’re looking for instant viral success or rapid results, blogging in 2026 probably isn’t your fastest path.

So Why Am I Still Here?

Good question. After ten years, with all these challenges, why do I keep doing it?

Because this is my job, in a sense.

My blog isn’t just a side hobby anymore. It’s tied to my business, Mama Crow’s. It’s part of how I connect with customers, share what I’m creating, and build credibility in my space. Walking away would mean abandoning a decade of work and the foundation I’ve built.

Because it’s a release.

There’s something about writing that social media can’t replace. Instagram captions are too short. Facebook posts feel scattered. TikTok scripts are performative. But my blog? That’s where I can actually say what I want to say, the way I want to say it, without worrying about character limits or whether it’ll fit in a 60-second video.

When I need to process something, share a story, or dive deep into a topic I care about, blogging gives me that space. It’s therapeutic in a way that social media just isn’t.

Because I’m building something that’s MINE.

Social media platforms can change the rules tomorrow. Your account can get hacked. An algorithm update can tank your reach. The platform could literally disappear or become something unrecognizable (we’ve all watched that happen).

But my blog? That’s mine. My content lives on my own domain. I own it. I control it. After ten years, I’ve built an asset that can’t be taken away by some tech company’s whims or policy changes.

Because I still believe it can be fully monetized.

I’m working toward that. The traffic is growing, my audience is engaged, and I know it’s possible because I’ve seen others do it successfully. Ads, affiliate links, sponsored content, selling my own products—all of that requires consistent traffic and a loyal audience, and I’m building both. It’s a long game, but I’m in it.

What Social Media Can’t Do

Here’s what I’ve realized after being on every platform—Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, Pinterest, all of it: social media is incredible for reach, but limited for depth.

You can build a following on social media. You can create viral moments. You can get engagement and visibility. But you can’t really build the same kind of relationship with your audience in 30-second clips and scrolling feeds.

My blog is where people actually get to know me. Where they understand what I’m about, what I care about, why I do what I do. It’s where I can explore topics thoroughly instead of skimming the surface for quick engagement.

Social media brings people in. My blog is where they connect more deeply.

And honestly? The readers who take time to visit my blog and engage with longer content are my people. They’re more invested, more loyal, more likely to become customers or genuine supporters. Quality matters as much as quantity.

The Truth About Growth in 2026

I’m not going to tell you that consistent posting automatically equals massive traffic. Growth is still one of my biggest challenges, even after a decade.

But here’s what I’ve learned:

Consistency builds momentum. Posting regularly (even if it’s not daily) compounds over time. Google rewards fresh content. Readers appreciate knowing you’re active and reliable.

SEO is non-negotiable. I know it’s technical and constantly changing, but if you’re not optimizing for search engines, you’re making it harder for the right people to find you. It’s worth the learning curve.

Email lists are invaluable. Social followers are great, but email subscribers are gold. They’re the people who actively want to hear from you. Every blogger I know who’s found success prioritizes their email list.

Patience is required. This is the truth nobody wants to hear, but blogging rewards the long game. Most successful bloggers have been at it for years—not months. The ones crushing it now? They put in the time.

Integration matters. Your blog doesn’t exist in isolation. It works best when it’s part of your overall content strategy—feeding your social media, supporting your business, building your email list, establishing your expertise.

So Is It Worth It?

For me? Absolutely. Even with the challenges and the slow growth curve and the ever-changing digital landscape.

It’s worth it because:

I’m building something that belongs to me, not a platform
It serves my business and deepens customer relationships
It’s a creative outlet that I genuinely need
It has real monetization potential that I’m working toward
I’ve invested ten years and built something valuable
The process itself brings me satisfaction
My audience, even if not massive, is engaged and growing
It establishes credibility in ways social media alone can’t

But here’s the thing—it might not be worth it for everyone in 2026.

If you’re looking for quick results, instant validation, or viral fame, blogging probably isn’t your best bet. If you hate writing, if it feels like torture every time you create a post, if you’re only doing it because someone said you “should”—then no, it’s probably not worth it.

But if you’re willing to play the long game? If you see value in owning your content and building something sustainable? If you actually enjoy the process of writing and creating (even when it’s challenging)? If you’re okay with steady, incremental growth instead of overnight success?

Then yes. Blogging in 2026 is absolutely worth it.

My Blogging Reality in 2026

After ten years, I’m not an overnight success story, and that’s okay. I have an audience that I’m grateful for. I have content that serves my business. I have a platform that’s entirely mine.

Some months I feel motivated and inspired. Other months I question whether I should focus all my energy on social media instead. Most months fall somewhere in between.

And that’s the real answer to “is blogging worth it in 2026?”—it depends on what you’re building toward.

If you’re measuring success purely by comparing yourself to viral TikTokers or Instagram influencers, blogging will probably feel discouraging. But if you’re measuring it by ownership, sustainability, depth of connection, long-term potential, and building something meaningful that serves your goals?

Then yeah. It’s absolutely worth it.

That’s why I’m still here after a decade. Still showing up. Still writing. Still believing that what I’m building matters—even when the path is slower than I’d like.

Because some things are worth the long game. And for me, blogging is one of them.

Are you still blogging in 2026? What keeps you going? I’d love to hear your perspective in the comments. Let’s talk about the real experience of blogging in today’s digital landscape. ✍️

A Frugal Kitchen Experiment: Acorn Squash

Posted on January 16, 2026January 19, 2026 by gigis ramblings

basket of acorn squash sitting on the counter

As I learn more about gardening, preserving food, and living more frugally in general, I’ve been pushing myself to try things I’ve honestly overlooked for years. When I spotted acorn squash on sale at H-E-B and heard how easy they are to grow, it felt like the perfect excuse to finally give them a shot. Cheap, versatile, and garden-friendly? That’s my kind of experiment.

What Is Acorn Squash?

Acorn squash is a winter squash with dark green skin, deep ridges, and sweet yellow-orange flesh. Despite the name, it doesn’t taste nutty. Instead, it has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that works well in both savory and sweet dishes.

It’s affordable, filling, and easy to store, which makes it a great option if you’re trying to stretch your grocery budget or rely less on processed foods.

Why Acorn Squash Makes Sense for Frugal Living

This is one of those foods that quietly checks all the boxes.

Acorn squash is usually inexpensive, especially in fall and winter. One squash can feed two to four people depending on how it’s prepared. It stores well for weeks, sometimes months, without any special equipment. Even better, it’s packed with fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C, so it pulls its weight nutritionally.

When you’re learning to be more intentional with food choices, this kind of versatility really matters.

Growing Acorn Squash at Home

If you’re considering growing your own food, acorn squash is often recommended for beginners.

It grows on vines, so it does need space. A single plant can spread several feet, but it produces generously. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil and does best when planted after the danger of frost has passed.

From planting to harvest, you’re looking at about 80 to 100 days. You’ll know it’s ready when the skin turns dark green, feels hard, and resists puncture from a fingernail.

Even if you’re new to gardening, this is a low-maintenance crop that rewards you for your effort.

How to Store and Preserve Acorn Squash

Whole acorn squash can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks. A pantry or storage closet works just fine.

Once cut, keep it in the refrigerator and use it within a few days. Cooked acorn squash freezes well too. You can mash it, cube it, or roast it first, then freeze portions for future meals. That’s a big win if you’re trying to cut down on waste and avoid last-minute grocery runs.

Easy Ways to Cook Acorn Squash

One reason I’m enjoying experimenting with acorn squash is how simple it is to prepare.

Roasting is the most common method. Just slice it in half, scoop out the seeds, brush with oil, season, and roast until tender. The natural sweetness really comes through.

You can also microwave it for a quicker option, steam it, or even slice it into wedges for roasting like potatoes.

Simple Acorn Squash Recipe Ideas

Here are a few beginner-friendly ideas that don’t require fancy ingredients:

Classic Roasted Acorn Squash
Halve the squash, drizzle with oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast until fork-tender.

Savory Stuffed Squash
Fill roasted halves with ground meat, rice, beans, or leftover veggies. It’s a great clean-out-the-fridge meal.

Sweet Cinnamon Squash
Roast with a little butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar for a simple side dish.

Mashed Acorn Squash
Mash cooked squash with butter and seasoning as a budget-friendly alternative to mashed potatoes.

Health Benefits of Acorn Squash

Acorn squash also brings solid health benefits to the table, which makes it even more appealing when you’re trying to eat better without spending more. It’s high in fiber, which supports digestion and helps you feel full longer, making meals more satisfying. Acorn squash is also a good source of potassium for heart health, along with vitamins A and C that support immune function and overall wellness. For a budget-friendly food, it delivers real nutritional value without requiring specialty ingredients or complicated preparation.

Is Acorn Squash Worth It?

For someone learning more about frugal living, gardening, and food preservation, acorn squash feels like a smart place to start. It’s affordable, easy to grow, easy to store, and forgiving in the kitchen.

Trying new foods like this has been a reminder that frugal living isn’t about deprivation. It’s about learning how to use what’s available, stretching what you buy, and building skills that actually make life easier in the long run.

If you’ve been eyeing those acorn squash at your grocery store or Farmers Market and wondering if they’re worth it, I’d say yes. Sometimes the simplest foods turn out to be the most useful ones.

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.

Why I Value Stability Now

Posted on January 15, 2026January 9, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Life has a funny way of teaching lessons you didn’t ask for. For years, I chased excitement, change, and the thrill of the unknown. I thought unpredictability was the spice of life. But somewhere along the way, I realized something: the chaos I once loved came with a price. That’s why stability has become more than a comfort—it’s a necessity.

The Shift From Chaos to Calm

There’s a stark difference between excitement and stress. When your life is in constant flux, decisions feel heavier, and your energy gets spread thin. I’ve learned that having a steady foundation doesn’t mean you’re stagnant—it means you can breathe. Stability creates space for reflection, growth, and meaningful connections.

Stability and Relationships

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that stability strengthens relationships. When your life isn’t a constant rollercoaster, you show up more consistently for the people who matter most. Whether it’s family, a partner, or friends, being grounded allows you to nurture bonds without distractions or unnecessary drama.

The Role of Financial Security

Stability isn’t just emotional—it’s practical. Managing finances, building savings, and planning ahead have become priorities. I’ve realized peace of mind doesn’t come from taking wild risks but from knowing your basics are covered. That security allows me to take smarter, more intentional risks when they truly matter.

Finding Joy in the Predictable

There’s a quiet joy in routines and predictability that I used to overlook. Morning rituals, weekly date nights with Santiago, or just knowing what to expect from my day—they may seem small, but they create a sense of control and peace. And that peace has become priceless.

Stability as Freedom

Ironically, choosing stability has opened doors I didn’t know existed. Instead of being trapped by constant upheaval, I can focus on things that truly matter: my family, my business, and my passions. Stability isn’t a cage—it’s a springboard. It allows me to move forward without constantly looking over my shoulder.

Embracing a Grounded Future

Life will always have surprises, but embracing stability has taught me resilience, patience, and clarity. I’ve stopped glorifying chaos and started appreciating consistency. And in that consistency, I’ve found freedom, confidence, and a version of happiness I couldn’t reach before.

Why You Should Never Ignore That Red Flag

Posted on January 14, 2026January 7, 2026 by gigis ramblings

We’ve all seen it. Felt it. That little warning bell that goes off when something doesn’t sit right. The problem isn’t that we miss red flags. It’s that we talk ourselves out of them.

Red flags don’t usually show up screaming. They whisper. They nudge. And if you ignore them long enough, they turn into full-blown disasters.

This applies to relationships, friendships, jobs, family dynamics, and even your own habits. If something feels off, there’s usually a reason.

Red Flags Are Your Gut Speaking Plain English

Your intuition doesn’t need evidence. It notices patterns before your brain catches up. That tight feeling in your chest, the sudden hesitation, the urge to pause — that’s not anxiety. That’s awareness.

People ignore red flags because they want to be polite, hopeful, or forgiving. But your gut isn’t rude. It’s protective.

When you dismiss those instincts, you’re choosing comfort over clarity.

Small Red Flags Grow Teeth

Most red flags don’t start as deal-breakers. They start small.

A comment that feels disrespectful. A promise that keeps getting delayed. A story that changes just enough to make you wonder. On their own, they seem harmless. Together, they paint a picture.

Ignored long enough, those small signs turn into patterns. And patterns don’t lie.

Love Doesn’t Require You to Ignore Yourself

One of the biggest lies people believe is that love means patience at all costs. It doesn’t.

Real love doesn’t ask you to silence your instincts or shrink your boundaries. It doesn’t make you feel confused, uneasy, or constantly second-guessing your reality.

If you feel like you’re always explaining away someone’s behavior, that’s not love. That’s self-abandonment.

Red Flags Aren’t Always About Other People

Sometimes the red flag is you.

Staying when you know better. Making excuses you wouldn’t accept for anyone else. Ignoring your own limits because walking away feels uncomfortable.

Growth starts when you stop gaslighting yourself.

Ignoring Red Flags Costs You Time

Time is the one thing you don’t get back. Every red flag ignored is time spent in a situation that isn’t aligned with who you are or where you’re headed.

Listening early saves years of regret, resentment, and recovery.

Walking away at the first warning isn’t dramatic. It’s disciplined.

Trusting Yourself Is a Skill You Can Relearn

If you’ve ignored red flags before, you’re not broken. You were likely taught to be agreeable, understanding, or self-sacrificing.

The good news is intuition gets stronger the more you honor it. Each time you listen, it speaks louder. Each time you act, you trust yourself more.

That’s power.

The Bottom Line

Red flags aren’t there to scare you. They’re there to guide you.

Ignoring them doesn’t make them disappear. It just delays the lesson.

Pay attention. Trust your gut. And remember — peace is louder than chaos once you learn how to listen.

The Link Between Movement and Mood

Posted on January 12, 2026January 5, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Image created with Canva AI

Movement Isn’t About Fitness—It’s About Survival

For most of human history, we moved because we had to. We walked, lifted, squatted, carried, climbed. Our bodies and brains evolved expecting regular movement. When movement disappears, mood often follows. This isn’t about chasing a workout aesthetic—it’s about keeping your nervous system regulated.

How Movement Affects the Brain

Movement directly influences brain chemistry. Physical activity increases dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins—chemicals responsible for motivation, calm, and emotional stability. At the same time, movement helps regulate cortisol, the stress hormone that stays elevated when we’re overwhelmed, anxious, or burnt out.

Even low-impact movement can create noticeable changes. A short walk, stretching, or light chores can interrupt spirals of anxiety or low mood by shifting the brain out of fight-or-flight mode.

Why Sitting Too Much Messes With Your Mood

Long periods of inactivity slow circulation, stiffen muscles, and reduce oxygen flow to the brain. Over time, this can contribute to fatigue, irritability, brain fog, and even depressive symptoms. The body interprets prolonged stillness as a form of stress—especially when paired with screens and constant mental stimulation.

Anxiety, Depression, and the Role of Movement

Movement gives anxious energy somewhere to go. When the body releases physical tension, the mind often follows. For depression, movement can feel impossible—but it’s one of the most effective tools available. It doesn’t require motivation first; motivation often shows up after movement begins.

This doesn’t mean intense workouts. Gentle, consistent movement is often more effective than forcing high-intensity routines that increase stress.

The Nervous System Connection

Movement helps reset the nervous system. Rhythmic activities like walking, rocking, stretching, or yoga activate the parasympathetic system—the part responsible for calm and recovery. This is why repetitive, steady motion often feels grounding and soothing.

You Don’t Need a Gym to Improve Your Mood

Mood-boosting movement doesn’t have to look like exercise. Cleaning, gardening, dancing in the kitchen, pacing while thinking, or even stretching before bed all count. The goal is regular motion, not perfection.

Consistency Matters More Than Intensity

Five minutes of daily movement is more powerful for mood regulation than an hour-long workout once a week. Consistency teaches the body safety and stability. Over time, movement becomes a form of emotional maintenance rather than a chore.

Listening to Your Body Instead of Punishing It

Movement should support your mental health, not become another source of pressure. Some days call for strength, others for softness. The body communicates what it needs—when we slow down enough to listen.

The Appeal of “Digital Detox” Weekends

Posted on January 11, 2026January 19, 2026 by gigis ramblings

For a lot of us, the idea of unplugging for an entire weekend sounds equal parts peaceful and terrifying. Our phones wake us up, guide us through the day, entertain us at night, and somehow still manage to stress us out in between. A “digital detox” weekend isn’t about rejecting technology forever; it’s about stepping away long enough to remember what life feels like without a screen constantly demanding attention.

As burnout, anxiety, and screen fatigue keep rising, more people are intentionally disconnecting for short periods of time. And weekends have become the perfect testing ground.

Why We’re So Drawn to Digital Detoxing

The appeal starts with exhaustion. Between work emails, social media, news alerts, group texts, and endless scrolling, our brains never really shut off. Even when we’re “relaxing,” we’re still processing information nonstop.

A digital detox weekend promises mental quiet. No notifications interrupting conversations. No doomscrolling before bed. No pressure to respond immediately. For many people, that silence alone feels like relief.

The Mental Health Benefits of Unplugging

One of the biggest reasons people try digital detox weekends is for their mental health. Constant connectivity keeps the nervous system in a low-level state of stress. Even positive notifications still trigger a response.

Stepping away can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and make it easier to stay present. Many people report feeling calmer by day two, once the urge to check their phone starts to fade. Without constant comparison on social media, self-esteem often gets a quiet boost as well.

Relearning How to Be Bored (and Why That’s Good)

Boredom has become something we avoid at all costs, but it plays an important role in creativity and problem-solving. When there’s no screen to grab, your mind starts wandering again… in a good way.

During a digital detox weekend, boredom often leads to reading, journaling, cooking, cleaning, or starting projects that have been put off for months. It can feel uncomfortable at first, but that space is where clarity and creativity tend to show up.

Stronger Real-Life Connections

When phones aren’t constantly present, conversations change. Eye contact lasts longer. Listening improves. Meals aren’t interrupted by scrolling or buzzing devices.

Couples, families, and friends often find digital detox weekends help them reconnect in a more meaningful way. Even spending time alone can feel richer when it isn’t fragmented by notifications every few minutes.

Why Weekends Work Best for Detoxing

Weekends are ideal because they already signal a break from routine. Most people don’t need to be reachable for work, and expectations for immediate responses are lower.

A short detox also feels more manageable than an open-ended one. Knowing it’s just a weekend makes it easier to commit and easier to repeat if it goes well.

The Challenges No One Talks About

Digital detoxing isn’t always easy. Many people experience anxiety, restlessness, or the fear of missing out during the first day. There’s also the uncomfortable realization of how often we reach for our phones out of habit, not necessity.

That discomfort is actually part of the process. It highlights how deeply ingrained our digital dependence has become and why stepping away can be so powerful.

Finding Balance Instead of Going Extreme

A digital detox weekend doesn’t have to mean locking your phone in a drawer or disappearing completely. Some people choose to remove social media apps, limit phone use to emergencies, or avoid screens after a certain hour.

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s awareness. Even small changes can lead to healthier relationships with technology long-term.

Why Digital Detox Weekends Are Here to Stay

As life becomes more digital, intentional disconnection feels less like a trend and more like self-preservation. Digital detox weekends offer a reset without requiring a lifestyle overhaul.

They remind us that technology should serve our lives, not consume them, and sometimes the best way to reconnect is to log off for a while.

Behind-the-Scenes: How I Track Orders Without Fancy Software

Posted on January 10, 2026January 10, 2026 by gigis ramblings

lady standing at a candle in a candle shop

Running a small business from home doesn’t require expensive software, complicated dashboards, or a dozen different apps. I know because I’ve been doing this since 2012, and I still rely on simple systems that make sense for my workload.

Order tracking doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It just has to be reliable.

Why I Don’t Use Fancy Order Management Software

There are a lot of tools out there promising to automate everything. For some businesses, that makes sense. For mine, it’s unnecessary.

My website is built on WooCommerce, which already does the heavy lifting. Orders come in clean, organized, and easy to access. I can see what’s paid, what’s processing, what’s shipped, and what still needs attention at a glance.

For a small business, that level of clarity is more than enough.

How WooCommerce Keeps My Orders Organized

WooCommerce is one of the most user-friendly platforms I’ve ever used. Every order is automatically logged, time-stamped, and assigned a status. That alone eliminates the need for extra tracking tools.

When an order comes in, I can quickly see:
• Customer details
• Items ordered
• Payment status
• Shipping method
• Order notes

As my order volume fluctuates, WooCommerce scales with me without creating chaos. Whether I have a light week or a packed one, everything stays organized in one place.

Shipping Made Simple With Built-In Tracking

I ship most orders through USPS. It’s reliable, affordable, and works perfectly for the majority of my products. For larger or heavier items, I’ll switch to UPS or FedEx when it makes more sense.

No matter which carrier I use, tracking is built in.

Once a label is created and the order is marked as shipped, tracking information is automatically attached. Customers receive updates, and I can see exactly where an order is at any time without digging through emails or spreadsheets.

That alone saves hours every week.

My Actual Order Tracking Process

My system is simple and repeatable, which is exactly why it works.

Orders are handled in this order:

New orders are reviewed inside WooCommerce
Orders ready to ship are processed first
Shipping labels are created and tracking is added
Orders are marked complete once shipped

There’s no guessing, no sticky notes, and no “I’ll remember that later.” Everything lives where it should.

How I Handle Higher Order Volume Without Stress

When order volume increases, the system doesn’t change. I just work through it in batches.

I ship first thing in the morning whenever possible. That way, orders are out the door early and off my mental load. Once shipping is done, I move on to emails and admin tasks knowing the most important part of the day is already handled.

Consistency is what keeps things manageable, not complexity.

Why Simple Systems Work Better for Small Businesses

For small businesses, complicated systems often create more problems than they solve. Every extra tool adds another thing to maintain, learn, and troubleshoot.

WooCommerce already provides:
• Order management
• Payment tracking
• Shipping integration
• Customer communication

Using what’s already built in keeps everything streamlined and easy to manage, especially when you’re wearing all the hats.

What I’d Tell Other Small Business Owners

You don’t need fancy software to run a legitimate, organized business. You need a system you understand and actually use.

For me, WooCommerce paired with USPS, UPS, and FedEx tracking has been more than enough to keep orders moving smoothly. It’s simple, efficient, and easy to keep up with, even on busy weeks.

Sometimes the best system isn’t the most advanced one. It’s the one that fits your business and keeps your sanity intact.

Why ASMR Became the Internet’s Favorite Relaxation Tool

Posted on January 9, 2026January 4, 2026 by gigis ramblings

I may be the odd man out here, but I cannot tolerate ASMR at all. It doesn’t relax me. It doesn’t soothe me. It doesn’t give me “tingles.” Instead, it gives me anxiety, makes me uncomfortable, and honestly feels like nails on a chalkboard. The whispering, the mouth sounds, the tapping — all of it sends my nervous system straight into fight-or-flight.

And yet, millions of people swear by it.

ASMR videos pull in billions of views. People use them to fall asleep, calm anxiety, cope with loneliness, and decompress after long days. So how did something that feels unbearable to some become the internet’s favorite relaxation tool for so many others?

What ASMR Actually Is

ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response. It describes a physical sensation, often a tingling feeling that starts at the scalp and moves down the neck or spine, triggered by certain sounds or visual cues.

Common ASMR triggers include whispering or soft-spoken voices, tapping or scratching sounds, page turning, slow hand movements, and personal-attention roleplay like haircuts, eye exams, or makeup application.

For people who experience ASMR, these triggers don’t just sound pleasant. They create a genuine sense of calm and safety.

Why So Many People Find ASMR Relaxing

It Slows the Nervous System

ASMR can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the part responsible for rest and recovery. Heart rate slows, breathing deepens, and the body relaxes. For people dealing with chronic stress or anxiety, this response can feel almost immediate.

It Mimics Care and Attention

A lot of ASMR content is intentionally gentle and personal. Soft voices, slow movements, and focused attention mimic being cared for. For people who feel lonely, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained, that sense of calm presence can be deeply comforting.

It Helps With Sleep

Many people rely on ASMR the same way others use white noise or calming music. The repetitive, predictable sounds help quiet racing thoughts and create a mental off-switch at bedtime.

Why ASMR Has the Opposite Effect on Some People

If ASMR makes your skin crawl instead of relax, you’re not broken. Your brain just processes sensory input differently.

Sensory Sensitivity

Certain sounds can trigger irritation or anxiety rather than calm. Whispering, mouth sounds, and repetitive noises can feel invasive or overwhelming instead of soothing.

Misophonia Overlap

There’s a strong overlap between disliking ASMR and misophonia, a condition where specific sounds cause intense emotional reactions like anger, anxiety, or panic. What relaxes one person can genuinely distress another.

Forced Intimacy Can Feel Uncomfortable

ASMR often simulates closeness. For some people that feels safe. For others it feels awkward, unsettling, or even intrusive, especially when it comes from a stranger on a screen.

Why ASMR Exploded Online

It’s Accessible

ASMR doesn’t require expensive setups. A microphone, patience, and consistency are enough. That low barrier helped it spread rapidly across YouTube, TikTok, and streaming platforms.

It Solves a Modern Problem

We live in a loud, fast, overstimulated world. ASMR offers the opposite: slow, quiet, intentional content. For many people, it’s an antidote to constant noise and digital overload.

Algorithms Push It

ASMR videos keep viewers engaged for long periods, especially at night. That watch time makes platforms push the content even harder, keeping ASMR constantly circulating.

Is ASMR Actually Good for You?

For people who enjoy it, yes. Research suggests ASMR can reduce stress, improve mood, and help with sleep.

For people who hate it, forcing yourself to like it is pointless. Relaxation isn’t universal. If ASMR spikes your anxiety, your brain is doing exactly what it’s supposed to do.

Final Thoughts

ASMR didn’t become the internet’s favorite relaxation tool because everyone loves it. It became popular because for the people it works for, it works incredibly well.

And for the rest of us, there’s comfort in knowing we’re not alone, even if our idea of relaxation sounds nothing like whispering into a microphone in the dark.

What I Focus on When Energy Is Low

Posted on January 6, 2026January 2, 2026 by gigis ramblings

Low energy doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Sometimes it’s just a signal to slow down, adjust expectations, and move differently through the day. I’ve learned not to fight it anymore. When my energy dips, I stop chasing productivity and start paying attention to what actually helps.

I Lower the Bar on Purpose

When energy is low, I don’t try to “push through.” That mindset only leaves me irritated and exhausted. Instead, I decide what actually matters that day. Not the ideal list. Not the Pinterest version of productivity. Just the few things that truly need attention.

Lowering the bar isn’t quitting. It’s conserving energy for what counts.

I Focus on Maintenance, Not Progress

Low-energy days aren’t for big goals or long-term plans. They’re for maintenance. I focus on keeping life steady rather than moving it forward.

That might mean folding laundry, answering a few messages, or handling small tasks that don’t require creativity or emotional effort. These things still count, even if they don’t feel impressive.

I Protect My Mental Space

When energy is low, my tolerance for noise, negativity, and chaos drops fast. I’m careful about what I let in. That includes conversations, social media, and even background noise.

I’ve learned that mental clutter drains energy just as much as physical effort. Quiet helps me reset, even if it’s just for a short while.

I Choose Comfort Without Guilt

Comfort isn’t laziness. On low-energy days, I lean into things that feel grounding. Comfortable clothes. Familiar routines. Simple meals. Familiar shows or music that doesn’t demand attention.

There’s no guilt in choosing ease. Rest is productive when it keeps burnout away.

I Listen to What My Body Is Asking For

Low energy can come from stress, overstimulation, or just needing rest. I try to listen instead of override it. Sometimes that means moving slower. Other times it means stepping away from responsibilities for a bit.

Ignoring those signals always costs me more later. Paying attention now saves energy in the long run.

I Give Myself Permission to Be Quiet

Not every day needs commentary. Not every thought needs to be processed or shared. When energy is low, I allow myself to be quiet without explanation.

Stillness has its own kind of healing. I don’t need to justify it.

I Remember That This Is Temporary

Low energy days feel heavy when I treat them like a failure. They feel manageable when I remember they’re temporary. I don’t need to fix everything today. I just need to get through it with care.

Energy comes back. It always does.

The Hidden Pressure of “Back to Normal”

Posted on January 5, 2026January 2, 2026 by gigis ramblings

For many, the phrase “back to normal” sounds comforting. It promises a return to routines, familiar faces, and a sense of stability. But what it often brings is quiet, unspoken pressure. The pressure to perform, to pretend everything is fine, and to fit into a timeline that doesn’t always match our own. My husband went back to work today and I miss him already!

Society’s Unspoken Timeline

From work deadlines to social expectations, we’re constantly reminded that life should resume at full speed. People post their “back to normal” selfies, kids return to school, and offices buzz again. It can feel like a subtle competition: Who is coping best? Who adjusted fastest? For those who struggled, the pressure to catch up can be exhausting.

Emotional Overload Behind the Mask

Even when routines resume, our minds and hearts may still carry the weight of recent challenges. Anxiety, grief, or burnout doesn’t always vanish when schedules return to normal. Pretending everything is fine only adds to stress. This invisible emotional labor is real, and it’s draining.

Redefining “Normal” on Your Terms

The truth is, “normal” doesn’t have a universal definition. It’s personal. Some may thrive in full social engagement, while others need slower steps. Allowing yourself to acknowledge your limits isn’t failure—it’s self-respect. Small adjustments, flexible routines, and honest communication can create a healthier version of normal that works for you.

Setting Boundaries Without Guilt

One of the hardest parts of resuming life is saying no. Whether it’s social events, extra work, or family obligations, boundaries are crucial. Saying no doesn’t make you weak—it protects your energy. Embracing your own pace helps you rebuild strength instead of burning out chasing someone else’s idea of “normal.”

Moving Forward Mindfully

Instead of rushing to blend into old rhythms, take time to reflect. Notice what truly matters and what feels like performative pressure. Celebrate small wins, seek support when needed, and allow yourself to reshape routines. Returning to life after disruption doesn’t mean erasing experiences—it means integrating them thoughtfully.

Life isn’t a race, and the invisible pressure of “back to normal” doesn’t have to define you. Moving forward on your own terms creates a lasting balance, one step at a time.