Cooglife Executive Editor cooglife@thedailycougar.com A Special By The Editor
Larsha Flowers cooglife.com
WRITERS/ARTISTS
Mahdiya Bhiwandiwala
Cindy Rivas Alfaro
Atirikta Kumar
Gauraangi Gupta
Angelina Contreras
Cali Adams
Camila Sosa Chassaigne
Melissa Unlu
Happy Holidays, Coogs:
We’re almost at the finish line!
To those of you who are new, my name is Larsha Flowers, and I am the Executive Editor for Cooglife Magazine. To the loyal readers, welcome back!
It is officially the point in the semester where things are both winding down and getting chaotic–this is your reminder not to procrastinate.
As we prepare for the break ahead, this issue serves as the perfect guide to navigating seasonal depression and winter blues through art and nature indulgences.
Whether you’re already burning out and in need of an escape or if
you’re just a type A planner trying to figure out how you’ll spend your break, this issue highlights many of the options available to you within the community.
Surely something will stand out, so read this one a little more intentionally. Until next semester,
Larsha Flowers Executive Editor
WINTER BREAK FUN IN HOUSTON
Fuzzy season is almost here, and winter break is right around the corner. It’s time to get into cute, warm sweaters and knee-high boots to go out and enjoy the most wonderful time of the year!
To save Coogs some time in looking, here’s a list of places you can check out to make the most of your winter break.
The Houston Zoo Lights
first responders, firefighters, police and EMT and educators qualify for a 10% discount on up to five tickets.
As a native Houstonian or a person living in Houston, it is a must to visit the magical zoo lights. It is a mesmerizing experience.
The prices range from $22.95 to $33.70. Members of the military,
The display of the lights will continue until Jan. 5, 2025. It is recommended to buy tickets as soon as possible, as they tend to sell out very quickly.
Students can also find the event calendar on the zoo website.
Magical Winter Lights
Magical Winter Lights 2024 at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds is cont’d on page 7.
another mesmerizing and unique lighting event to visit during the holiday season.
A showcase display of twinkling lights, festive decorations and other attractions make it a perfect holiday activity.
Visitors can find a display of over 60 lanterns along with some tasty treats and carnival rides as well.
Tickets can range anywhere from $27 to $96 if bought online and $32 to $108 if purchased at the box office.
Houston Ballet’s
The Nutcracker
For all the theater enthusiasts, Houston’s holiday tradition is incomplete without Stanton Welch’s The Nutcracker.
The Nutcracker features hundreds of characters, elaborate sets and stunning details to captivate audiences and make the experience worthwhile. It is the perfect activity for dates, solo dates or friends getting together.
It is recommended to buy the tickets as soon as possible.
City Place Giant Gingerbread Village
This free holiday attraction brings back childhood memories as visitors walk down the gumdrop, lollipop and candy-cane path guarded by two giant gingerbread men.
The event debuted three years ago and features cookie trees, a 16-foot-high gingerbread house and a 12-foot windmill.
Students can start visiting this fun-filled event from the last week of November until the first week of January–a good way to either end off the fall semester or kick off the spring one!
ARTECHOUSE: Houston Holiday Spectacular
Don’t forget to check out this first-ever, immersive Houston Holiday Spectacular. With a blend of art, technology and festival vibes, this exhibit
reimagines the popular holiday through ASMR and digital landscapes.
One of the main highlights, the Tingle Bells Immersion Gallery, is a 20-minute cinematic journey into the world of ASMR. This exhibit helps visitors experience three distinct scenes, each designed to evoke feelings of comfort, curiosity and nostalgia.
The Spectacular factory, an imaginary gift factory is another attraction to check out at this experience. Previously, it had also been exhibited in Washington, DC and New York City.
This event is perfect for all ages and groups. It begins on Nov. 22, 2024 and will go until Jan. 5, 2025.
Tickets range $30 to $38.
DITCH THE GENERIC HOLIDAY PHOTOS 2024
Written by Melissa Unlu
Nestled in the bustling city of Houston are three unique gardens providing serene escapes and stunning photo opportunities. Each location offers a unique blend of natural beauty, thoughtful design and cultural significance, perfect for not-so-average holiday snapshots.
Take a different approach this holiday season by visiting Houston’s Japanese Garden, Waterwall Park or Mercer Botanic Gardens for a refreshing change from the city’s generic holiday photo spots.
Houston’s Japanese Garden
Houston’s Japanese Garden’s is a 5.5-acre garden located in Hermann Park.
The garden was designed by the Tokyo landscape designer Takeshi “Ken” Nakajima in 1992.
Ken Nakajima was an influential landscape architect and designer of Japanese gardens. Born in Japan in 1914, Nakajima graduated from the Tokyo University of Agriculture in 1937. In 1957, he started his own company called Consolidated Garden Research, based in Tokyo.
Representing the friendship between Japan and the United States, these Japanese gardens integrate Japanese structures, sculptured plantings, stone lanterns, a waterfall and gravel paths to create a fresh breath of air in a tranquil space perfect for extremely unique holiday pictures.
Whether for family portraits or solo pictures, the natural lights in these gardens are often softened by the surrounding trees, creating stunning, naturally lit shots.
Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park
Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park is a beautiful waterfall suited for all types of unique photoshoots. This place is a big waterfall placed in the middle of a field right in front of a big skyscraper.
In 1982, architects John Burgee and Philip Johnson along with Gerald D. Hines began working on the Transco Tower. In 1985, the waterfall opened to the public.
There are vast channeled sheets from the narrower top to the wider base below creating a visually striking urban waterfall viewable from various buildings around the region.
The main building material of the fountain is St. Joe brick. The Romanesque arches are made of Indiana Buss limestone while the wall’s base is black granite. The entire fountain’s water supply, consisting of 78,500 gallons, is recycled by an internal mechanism every three hours and two minutes.
All these components come together to create one of the most fascinating places for a naturethemed holiday shoot.
Mercer Botanic Gardens
Lastly, Mercer Botanic Gardens, is a public botanical garden with landscaped garden beds and natural areas.
In 1974, Charles and Thelma Mercer sold their land to Harris County upon retirement. The Mercers had spent 25 years cultivating a garden in the 14.5 acres of land.
The gardens feature several themed areas, Endangered Species and Native Plant Garden, Herb Garden, Prehistoric Garden, William D. Lee Iris Collection, Tropical Garden and Vegetable Gardens are among the few.
Furthermore, in the Japanese Teahouse at Storey Lake, various species of bamboo coexist creating an incredibly eccentric photoshoot location–a great change from the usual Christmas trees.
These Houston gardens offer the perfect opportunity for non-basic holiday photos. Each garden uniquely balances nature and design, inviting visitors to pause, enjoy and capture the moments within their peaceful landscapes.
A DAY IN THE LIFE
BY ATIRIKTA KUMAR
Today I am going to the library with my friend. I packed my coffee, sleeping bag and books. I am so tired of studying at my desk.
I am certain I might see the end of the world, before I see the end of this textbook, They are kind of dangerous. We are going to study, memorize and cry. I have heard the M.D Anderson library is great for studying and crying.
Then we will work through the coursework for day, week and semester.
If I see at last there is an end to the studying.
While studying, I am going to hangout with my friends as well!
At night we will complain about our classes and get some sweet treats.
Everyday I go the library, To study, to write and cry.
THESE DAYS OF COLLEGE WINTER
BY ATIRIKTA KUMAR
Days turn into sleepless nights, Full of assignments, exams and dreams of projects.
Not a day goes by without something to-do, no time to rest and relax, There is always another task on hand.
Tears flow easily, with each grade the semester brings, but there is also laughter with friends, late night movies and sweet treats.
Each day passes through slowly, weeks pass by in a blur.
These are the best times of our lives, but it seems hard to get through. Each day brings us closer to the end, Only a few more days till the semester ends.
Written by Mahdiya Bhiwandiwala
Graphic Designed by Cali Adams
It’s almost time for the holiday season to begin. A lot of people are already adopting the seasonal spirit and holiday cheer. To some, the air seems to be buzzing with magical energy everywhere. But for others, they really feel the winter blues.
Here’s a deeper glance into what art therapy is, how it works to help combat the winter blues and some ways and places in the city where you can engage in art therapy.
Art therapy is a form of therapy used to assist people in figuring out and interpreting their emotions and feelings.
People indulge in distinctive and creative forms of art to find any resolutions to the issues once they understand the reasons behind a particular emotion. These art forms can include pottery making, painting, clay sculpting, mandala drawings and more.
For the holidays, activities such as gift wrapping, Christmas tree decoration and festive dessert making can be considered as well.
According to Andrew Davis, dean of the UH Katherine G. McGovern College of the Arts, the arts really do help. “They help patients express
needs and emotions,” Davis said. “They reduce the experience of pain.”
Even if some people don’t consider themselves artistic, art therapy can still be a legitimate option to combat the winter blues. The point of art therapy is to have an outlet to let out and explore something–in this case, our feelings. So you don’t have to be good at art to try out the various forms of art therapy.
Keeping the season coming up in mind, here is a list of some holiday-themed art workshops you could check out in the city for your own seasonal art therapy sessions.
Holiday Clay Ornament Making Workshop
Date: Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024
Time: Noon to 2 p.m.
Location: 740 W. 20th St., Houston, TX 77008
This workshop is perfect to make customized holiday ornaments from clay. It is beginner friendly and you could learn a new skill, which could potentially turn into your new hobby.
Mini snacks and drinks will also be provided.
If this interests you, you should sign up at events.popshopamerica.com today!
Fresh Eucalyptus Wreath Making Class
Date: Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024
Time: 5 to 7 p.m.
Location:740 W. 20th St., Houston, TX 77008
Wreath-making is an ideal activity for the festive season which awaits us. You can embellish your own wreath with fresh eucalyptus, ribbons, leaves and more.
Plus, you don’t need to have any sort of prior experience to be a part of something so creative. This is a great date night activity for couples or a fun activity to do with your gals and pals.
Register soon at events.popshopamerica.com for
the event if it seems appealing to you.
Holiday Cookie Decorating Workshop
Date: Friday, Dec. 13, 2024
Time: 7 to 9 p.m.
Location: 740 W. 20th St., Houston, TX 77008
If you enjoy baking or have been eager to test your culinary skills, this holiday cookie decorating workshop could be your chance, with no experience needed. You can count on the workshop to teach you different techniques to adorn your festive cookies. You can find more information and sign up at events.popshopamerica.com.
Santa’s Workshop at The Post Oak Hotel
Date: Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024
Time: 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Location: The Post Oak Hotel
1600 West Loop South Houston, TX 77027
Santa’s Workshop is the perfect event to go with your families or children.
You can jingle all the way while decorating gingerbread houses, listening to live holiday music and enjoying story time with Santa himself. The cherry on the top is you get access to a scrumptious holiday spread.
The morning session promises festive pastries and breakfast, while the afternoon session offers an array of afternoon appetizers and delights. You can find out more and book the workshop at events.popshopamerica.com!
Clearly, there are a diverse range of art therapy activities you can devote your time to, especially if you want to get over your winter blues and enter the holiday with an uplifted spirit.
If you want, you could go with your siblings, friends or partners to make it more memorable and fun. Each of these activities will give you the opportunity to not only create something fun but to also release your emotions through different mediums of art. It’s definitely worth a try!
As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, many students find themselves struggling to get
out of bed in the morning–or at least, more so than usual.
If the mere thought of
venturing into the chill of a 50-degree Texas winter makes you want to hibernate until spring, you’re not alone.
This phenomenon, known as seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), affects many people each year, particularly in the fall and winter months.
For college students who already face the stress of assignments, internships and exams, the added challenge of seasonal depression can make these months feel like a flooded walk through campus in the middle of a rainstorm.
Elijah Murphy, a Ph.D. candidate, specializing in clinical psychology at the University of Houston, explained to us how SAD is linked to reduced sunlight exposure, which can disrupt the body’s internal clock.
“The main thing regarding
seasonal affective disorder is the exposure to sunlight,” Murphy said. “Folks begin to experience depressive symptoms that are related to just kind of the lack of sunlight that you were receiving during the spring and summer months.”
He explained these symptoms typically start to dissipate in the spring or summer when the sunlight hours increase, setting SAD apart from other types of depression.
For college students, the timing of SAD can intensify the stress and anxiety they already face during finals week.
“College students live stressful lives, right?” Murphy said. “And on top of stressful times, things are dreary outside. You’re not getting as much sunlight, making it a tough time to also try to combat and deal with depressive symptoms that might arise from the weather.”
and anxiety. According to Murphy, “when it comes to being depressed, you lose interest in things that you might have been interested in in the past.”
Murphy added, “Let’s say I really like riding my bike, and now that I’m having these symptoms of depression, whether that be seasonal affective disorder or major depressive disorder or just depressive symptoms in general, I may not have that interest in doing so anymore.”
Other symptoms of SAD include sleep difficulties–not just from staying up to study. “It’s physically like I’m struggling to sleep. Or it could be sleeping too much or impacting your appetite,” Murphy said.
because this is just that time in the semester.’”
While SAD symptoms can create a perfect storm for college students, Murphy suggests several strategies to combat these feelings.
“When it comes to seasonal depression, what research suggests is that being able to expose yourself to more light is beneficial,” Murphy said.
Simple actions such as opening your window or stepping outside for a break during study sessions might offer relief.
It’s also important to differentiate SAD from other feelings which may arise during finals, such as stress
He continued, “It impacts your feelings of self worth, so feeling helpless, feeling hopeless, feeling worthless thoughts of suicide–these are all related to depression. So those are some ways and you know not allencompassing, but those are some ways you can distinguish depression from just ‘OK, I’m stressed out
“Practicing mindfulness can be a really good way to combat some of these symptoms of seasonal depression,” Murphy said. “Being able to go outside and take a walk, just basking in the sunlight…It allows you to just be oriented to the present moment, and research suggests that it’s very beneficial to our wellbeing.”
While Murphy emphasized the importance of a positive mindset in combating SAD, he also pointed out stress does not have to be harmful
and can sometimes even benefit us depending on our attitudes towards it.
Murphy also highlighted the importance of hope. “Hope is associated with lower levels of depression,” he said.
If SAD symptoms persist, Murphy recommends looking further into the concepts mentioned. “Knowledge is power… just equipping ourselves with knowledge and saying, ‘OK, this is what this is and I can do something about it,’ can be
really empowering,” Murphy said.
While seasonal depression can be challenging, it is important for students to recognize help is available.
The University of Houston offers various resources to support student health, including Counseling and Psychological Services, or CAPS for short, and the Wellness Center. These resources provide individual counseling, group counseling and workshops
on stress management and mindfulness.
If you’re feeling low this winter, remember it might not be just the academic grind or the chilly Texas mornings–seasonal changes could be at play.
Taking proactive steps, such as implementing small, daily strategies, fostering a positive mindset and seeking support when needed can be the first steps to brighter days ahead.
Stay Connected
Stay connected with what’s happening on campus and in your new city by following The Cougar on social media & our newsl etter!
Eleanor Tinsley Park in Houston is my go-to spot to get in my weekly dosage of sunlight and meditation.
Taking this time out weekly, usually on Sundays, to picnic in the park gives me the weekly reset I need to both combat Seasonal Affective Disorder and recalibrate myself for the week ahead!
Grab a blanket and spend an hour or two out there one of these weekends to see how great the extra sunlight is for avoiding the winter blues!
University of Houston is recognized for its diverse and talented student body.
Our campus is filled with passion and creativity, and student artists are the ones at the heart of shaping the UH experience.
These remarkable individuals use their art to express unique perspectives, explore cultural and social themes and breathe life into the
vibrant spirit of the Coog community.
In this feature, we are proud to highlight six amazing student artists whose work stands out for their originality and impact.
Through their dedication to music, film, dance, photography, painting and sculpture, these artists bring fresh perspectives, inspire and tell stories through their art.
BEN WHITE
socials: @bensiive
Ben White is a senior majoring in Digital Media, whose career took off in 2021 during the post-pandemic revival of the city’s vibrant music scene.
Known for his distinctive digital collages and extensive body of work, White has become a key figure in Houston’s punk community.
His photography captures the raw, cathartic energy of punk and hardcore shows, as well as intimate portraits of people at their core.
CoogTV Film Fest, April 2023
BROOKE HARRISON
socials: @brookie_brooksters
Brooke Harrison is the Executive Producer of CoogTV and a senior majoring in Media Production with a minor in Entrepreneurship.
The best day ever, October 2024
Harrison has developed a deep commitment to mentoring fellow members, teaching them how to use equipment and fostering a supportive environment for creative expression.
Through her experiences with CoogTV, she has found a passion for producing, which she aspires to pursue professionally in the future.
House of J, August 2022
Bell St., December 2022
GABRIEL GUTIERREZ
socials: @gabe_alejandro
Gabriel Gutierrez is a sophomore at The Moores School of Music, double majoring in Music Education and Vocal Performance. His time has been filled with
ZURI HUMPHREY
socials: @zuridances
Zuri Humphrey is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance. She has trained extensively under renowned instructors and master teachers, focusing on ballet, contemporary and
CARLOS MENDOZA
socials: @l0s_art
Carlos Mendoza is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting. Mendoza uses acrylic art to capture Houston’s rich cultural, social
CHLOEY BERRY
socials: @chloeyberryart
Chloey Berry is a senior pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture whose work explores themes of nostalgia, comfort and connection
achievements and numerous passionate performances, including Concert Chorale and the Moores traveling Competition Choir. Gutierrez recently traveled to Austria
with Concert Chorale, where they won the International Choral Competition: Ave Verum, an experience he considers one of his best at UH.
classical modern dance. Her pre-professional experience includes a solo improvisation at the Blaffer Museum of Art and numerous performances with the University of Houston Dance Ensemble.
Following graduation, Humphrey aspires to join a contemporary modern dance company, with plans to choreograph and perform across the U.S. and eventually throughout Europe.
and environmental narratives. He celebrates iconic figures like DJ Screw and the landscapes of Houston’s Third Ward, reflecting the city’s spirit
and complexity. Through his creations, he invites audiences to connect with the powerful stories defining Houston’s essence.
through vibrant color and diverse materials. Her art delves into her identity as a woman and artist, as well as her relationship with nature.
Berry aims to create pieces which evoke happiness, warmth and a sense of peace for those who experience her work.
September 2024
UH Goes to the Match (2024), choreography by Travis Prokop
The Merry Widow, February 2024
Photography by Rachel Redding
UH Goes to the Match (2024), choreography by Zuri Humphrey
Photography by Rachel Redding
Light, April 2022
Just a Girl, October 2024
Screwed Up Click, 2024
Elbows and Thangz, 2024
QUIZ :
You’ll have quite some time on your hands over the break. Wondering how you should spend it?
Nothing is better than sitting down on the couch, or even outside on the grass, with a book in your hand. Take this quiz to narrow down your book selection for the upcoming break!
1. What’s your favorite holiday drink?
A. Apple cider
B. Pumpkin spice latte
C. Hot chocolate
D. Wine
E. Eggnog
2. What gift do you want the most?
A. A plane ticket
B. New furniture
C. Friends, booze and bad ideas
D. Everlasting love
E. Comedy show tickets
3. What phrase best describes you?
A. Here for a good time, not a long time
B. All good things come to those who (don’t) wait
C. If you can’t beat them, join them and then beat them
D. Taking it day by day
E. Bad ideas, good times
What’s the ideal book for you read over the winter break?
4. What archetype are you most like?
A. Hopeless romantic
B. Feminist heroine or hero
C. Party child
D. The therapist friend
E. Drunk uncle or aunt
5. What’s your favorite holiday decor?
A. Mistletoe
B. Christmas lights
C. Nutcrackers
D. Christmas tree
E. Advent calendars
6. How do you celebrate the new year?
A. Vodka–lots of vodka
B. Early bedtime for me–essential for a fresh start
C. Kissing everyone in the room
D. Planning my New Year’s resolutions
E. With all the sparklers I can find
7. What’s your favorite holiday tradition?
A. Writing Santa a letter
B. Decorating the tree
C. White elephant
D. Baking Christmas cookies
E. Ugly sweater contest
QUIZMASTER: CINDY RIVAS ALFARO
Mostly As: Normal People by Sally Rooney.
Do you love crying yourself to sleep? Can’t bring yourself to leave your situationship? If so, then this is the book for you! Address your codependency head-on with this novel filled with laughter, tears and lots of alcohol.
Mostly Bs: A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf.
If you’re the kind of person who can’t take a break when people tell you to, then this book is for you. You can learn all about the inequalities women face while also seeing how it relates to current society. It’s a short book but you might want a highlighter and a pen to take some notes.
Mostly Cs: Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Anderton.
You’re the friend who seems to know everybody. Your liveliness and excitement at all opportunities make you the friend who is up for anything. However, your care for others can sometimes overshadow the care you have for yourself. Learn what it means to love others while finding love for yourself in this witty, spirited, laugh-out-loud funny novel.
Mostly Ds: The Year
You’re the sentimental sort, holding on to old lovers and childhood teddy bears. This gentleness is your strength! But, it is also your downfall. Learn to find the balance of a soft heart in a hard world with this novel filled with loss, new beginnings and tackling the unexpected.
Mostly Es: Good Omens by Neil Gaimen and Terry Pratchett.
You’re always the life of the party at any holiday event you attend. You don’t take yourself too seriously, letting yourself dive head-first into fun traditions. At any holiday event you attend, you’re sure to show up with the most hilarious–and probably questionable–gift. All these qualities make this the perfect holiday book for you!
