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MENTAL well-being is not just about depression. It’s about finding joy in life and reasons to smile.
We all have times when that seems harder than it should, so The Border Mail has tried to make it a little bit easier for you.
Short-lived highs like expensive holidays, big nights out or shopping sprees won’t get a mention here — those quick-fixes can cause as much harm as good.
This is all about simple, everyday pleasures.
And just being happy.
JASMIN BOEHM: I'd feel nothing without music
PETE HENDERSON: It all starts with an emotion
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GET NOSTALGIC
YOUR iPhone is probably loaded with thousands of songs, but they're all lacking the romance of an old vinyl.
From the faded artwork to that slightly warped black disc, to the oddly calming "crackle" as the needle finds its groove -- this is how you truly experience a long-player.
Check out the folks' or grandparents' collections, hit up the Sunday markets, the op-shops or even eBay. You never know what gems you'll uncover.
And don't forget to flip over to side B.
CHILL OUT
The Jazz Basement, Gateway Village, Wodonga: With everything from James Morrison proteges to seasoned blues performers, the monthly gigs do not disappoint. Grab a drink and enjoy some of the best Australian performers of the genre with most gigs setting you back just $20.
SOMETHING ALTERNATIVE
Mixtape Saturdays, The Albion Hotel, from 10pm: If you're not a standard pub-club fan you may be shocked to find going out in Albury and listening to good music isn't necessarily mutually exclusive.
DJ Debs' Mixtape Saturday is an alternative house party full of indie-rock/old school/punk/metal/hip-hop/synth/party goodness.
Taking requests and playing tracks the other venues won't, DJ Debz blends genres to ensure there's something for everyone.
Metal Madness, The Bended Elbow Beir Garden, the last Thursday of each month, from 9pm: Metalheads rejoice. The Bended Elbow now provides a monthly musical release for fans of the Border's most neglected genre. As well as showcasing some of the area's best musicians, these nights give metalheads the chance to discuss all things metal. And let's face it, nothing gets the blood pumping quite like the mayhem of a moshpit.
PUT ON A SHOW
Heaps of pubs and council venues give you a chance to test yourself in front of appreciative audiences. Open mic nights include Thurgoona's Kinross and the Star at Yackandandah.
JUST LISTEN
Music has never been more accessible, but rarely has it been more in the background. Take the time to put on a CD, your iPod or attend a concert and simply listen. Concentrate on the lyrics, melody and rhythm and let the art wash over you.