10/30/2023
Picture: A zombi/unhinged atacting Granma Gertie in her Saloon and Apothicary. She is using her cane to block the claws as they attemped to rip her appart.
Summer brought a rollercoaster of emotions for me as I navigated the challenges of job searching and launching my HR consulting business. While learning and developing new skills, the journey to secure paid work was quite a ride. Amidst all this, I realized that I hadn't been investing enough time in self-care.
Self-care means different things to different people, and my perspective aligns more with what fuels me personally. As an extrovert, I thrive on connecting with people, especially those who share my unique interests. This is where my passion for Live Action Role Play (LARP) comes in.
For those unfamiliar, LARP stands for Live Action Role Play, and it's been a game-changer for me. I participate in a survival horror boffer LARP, and it's an incredible experience. Once a month, from May to October, I pack up my car with camping gear, props, and even DIY weapons made from plumbing supplies and nerf guns. I head to the wilderness, where I meet up with 60-80 other individuals for an immersive storytelling event.
It's like a blend of improvisation, camping, and gaming, where we get to embrace our inner child with mature themes. I know it might sound nerdy to some, but I find it to be the ultimate escape from reality. Yes, I come back physically tired, sore, and probably covered in mosquito bites, but the impact on my mental health is worth it.
Allow me to introduce you to Gramma Gertie, the character I play. She is a remarkable 80-year-old woman who hails from the heart of the Midwest in 1895. She's a character straight out of a history book, a religious, gun-carrying, country bumpkin with a knack for creating all kinds of concoctions to remedy whatever ails you. Among her many creations, there's something she calls "Rust Shine."
In this strange world we've all found ourselves in, known as the Flux, Gramma Gertie has adapted and carved out her own niche. She's taken on the roles of the local barkeep and apothecary, providing solace, refreshment, and remedies to the denizens of this peculiar realm.
It's a fascinating twist on time and place, as Gramma Gertie brings a touch of the past to the ever-shifting present of the Flux. I believe her character adds depth and intrigue to the LARP world and playing her is an adventure in itself.
LARPing in this Survival Horror world rejuvenates me in a way that more traditional self-care activities might not. It's my tribe, my escape, and my mental health booster all rolled into one. It just goes to show that self-care can take many forms, and what's important is finding what works for you. So, embrace what brings you joy, even if it's a bit unconventional. 🌟
Thank you for a wonderful summer Altered LARP Community