Have you ever hesitated to throw away that pretty piece of wrapping paper or an old ticket stub? You’re not alone. In a world where we’re constantly glued to our screens, people are turning to a quirky, creative hobby called junk journaling to find a little peace and purpose.

At its core, junk journaling is a mix of collage, scrapbooking, and traditional journaling. Instead of buying fancy supplies, junk journalers use recycled scraps like old cards, packaging, or pamphlets. The result? A unique, tactile record of everyday life that’s as meaningful as it is creative.

Danielle Catton, 37, is one of the many newcomers to this trend. “Things that might have ended up in the trash now get a second life in my journal,” she says. “It’s calming, therapeutic, and lets me step away from my phone.”

The hobby has surged in popularity recently, with searches for “junk journaling” spiking late last year. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are flooded with creators sharing their process, tips, and stunning creations.

But this isn’t a brand-new idea. Crafting blogger Jennifer Perkins has been junk journaling for over a decade, long before it had a name. She sees it as a modern take on zinemaking and mixed-media art. For Perkins, it’s a creative outlet that helps her unwind. “Glue sticks are my Xanax,” she jokes.

Science seems to back the benefits. Recent studies suggest that creative activities like junk journaling can boost mental well-being and help manage stress. For some, it’s even a form of therapy.

What’s especially appealing about junk journaling is its connection to analog living. In an age where everything is digital, people are craving physical, tangible memories. Tatyiana Gordon, 26, started junk journaling last summer for this very reason. “It’s a way to make my memories permanent,” she explains.

For Gordon and others, junk journaling has become a way to find beauty in the small, everyday moments—like a coffee shop visit or a piece of wrapping paper. “It’s about romanticizing your life,” she says.

In a world that often feels overwhelming, junk journaling offers a simple, inexpensive escape. So, dig out those old scraps and get creative—you might just find a new way to unwind and connect with your life in a more meaningful way.