Los Angeles, California – Throughout quarantine, Julia Michaels has relied on the simple things to keep her sane – like adding to her ever-growing tattoo collection.

Everyone has something they turn to when in need of some self-care. For Julia Michaels, that thing is tattoos.

The singer-songwriter has been adding to her collection since 2012, before she was a household name in the music industry.

Her first tattoo was a microphone on her shoulder at the ripe age of 18, which she has since added intricately shaded flowers to.

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The songstress is now covered in ink, with two sleeves, hand and finger art, one on her lower neck that continues down her body, and several on her legs.

Michaels told Allure that the process of getting tattooed sparks her creative energy, something she found herself lacking during Covid-19 lockdowns.

"I love tattoos and I love the way that they make me feel," Michaels said. The 27-year-old Grammy nominee went on to explain the intimate experience of getting inked, and having full trust that the artist will bring your vision to life.

The connection between Michaels and her tattoo artists – and their ability to tell her story through body art – not only revives her creative energy, it provides her with a safe space for creative release.

"I love when I get a new one, and I'm really close with the people that tattoo me. It's such an intimate thing. It's sort of like songwriting," the musician said.

Getting tattooed is an experience unlike any other, and some find the pain involved in the process to be soothing. Michaels is undoubtedly one of those people.

Every piece holds significant value, and Michaels still remembers when and where she was for each of them, especially the stick-and-poke ones she regretfully gave herself out of boredom while on tour.

Michaels started her career in the business as a songwriter, crafting up catchy tunes for pop stars like Justin Bieber and Selena Gomez.

Her music usually has a bitter edge to it as she sings about those who have done her wrong, love lost, and yearning for attention.

On Friday, Michaels released her first LP, Not in Chronological Order, with her new label Republic Records. Her overall message seems to have shifted from the one being wronged to one who's worthy of romantic love and more importantly, self-love.

No matter where her budding career takes her, she'll always have the memories inked all over her body.