Today we welcome guest blogger Amber Wolfinger, the Library’s academic assistant, with a post on library & museum resources to help you destress. (Please note that you will need your Gustavus user ID/password to access some of these materials.)
In these stressful and uncertain times, it is more important than ever to set aside a small part of each day for relaxation and leisure. Here are some resources available for everyone that may help pass the time and reduce stress while doing it!
Leisure Reading
Reading of our own free will regularly (just 30 minutes a day) is correlated with reduced stress, as well as a host of other health, social, and educational benefits. Even with public and university libraries closed right now (though many are beginning to offer curbside pickup), there are a variety of online resources to continue or begin your leisure reading.
Flipster, a digital magazine collection, is offering free access until July 7, 2020. You can explore magazines (and even coloring books) from topics covering art, sports, history, and everything in between! eLibraryMinnesota also offers access to a wide variety of reading options to Minnesota residents.
Listening to Music
Listening to music is also an easy way to reduce stress and aid concentration! YouTube and Spotify are quick ways to access music, but did you know Gustavus students and faculty also have access to thousands of artists and ensembles in the Jazz Music Library? You can listen to favorite Jazz artists like Ella Fitzgerald or Duke Ellington, or search for a new favorite with the database’s easy search tools.
“Visit” a museum
Recently, museums have been creating virtual ways to “visit” exhibits. This is a great way to see amazing art and learn something new! For example, The Metropolitan Museum of Art has created an award winning series of videos, called the “360° Project”, that allows viewers to explore specific galleries. This article by Andrea Romano provides even more links to virtual museum visits!
By Amber Wolfinger