Could you use a little boost when it comes to elevating your mood, energy, and overall mental health? If you or your family members could benefit from a little help, there’s a very cool campaign that kicks off this Saturday, January 22 for participants of any age. The Austin-based Hi How Are You Project is hosting its 2nd annual Happy Habit-A-Thon — a program with the goal of helping people incorporate daily tasks that focus on good mental health.
The campaign kicks off on Hi How Are You Day, January 22, which is an annual celebration of the life and legacy of the late musician, songwriter, and visual artist Daniel Johnston and is an officially recognized day by both the City of Austin and the State of Texas. It’s a day to ask others “HI, HOW ARE YOU?” and really mean it, and reminds us to have open conversations about mental health and well-being.
The Happy Habit-A-Thon will run for ten days through January 31 featuring a set of healthy habits and fun, engaging activities. Each habit — such as practicing mindfulness, being grateful, moving your body, etc. — is paired with community partners from the worlds of music, art, sports, comedy, education, cooking, and more. There is also a digital bingo activity, too.
You can register to participate for free, or opt for a donation level that includes a cool commemorative t-shirt. Learn more & sign up here. You can learn much more about the project at hihowareyou.org.
A New Mural at The Contemporary Jones Center will be unveiled on January 22 in conjunction with the current exhibition of Daniel Johnston’s works, Daniel Johnston: I Live My Broken Dreams. All are welcome tobgather at the corner of Congress Avenue and 7th Street in a safe and socially distanced manner or tune into The Contemporary’s Instagram (@contemporaryatx) where an official ribbon cutting will be live streamed at 12:30 p.m. with the museum team, members of the Johnston estate, and Mayor Adler. The mural features images and details taken directly from Johnston’s artwork. In addition, you are encouraged to post a photo of the mural and tag The Contemporary on Instagram through the end of January for a chance to win a Daniel Johnston gift package.
Header image: The iconic Hi, How Are You mural was painted by Daniel Johnston in 1993 is located on the corner of Guadalupe and 21st Street in Austin, TX. The image of it above was taken by photographer, Roger Ho.
