When we get overwhelmed or feel low energy, our bodies tend to send us signals that we need to take a break. Let this post be a sign to put away your work, stop answering emails, take a study break and focus on yourself.
Unsure of where to begin? Take a look at this list of 40 different coping mechanisms to try. If you happen to find success with one of these methods, try writing them down and refer to them later when you need time to decompress.
Some of these mechanisms are marked with an asterisk at the end. These asterisks indicate time-sensitive activities. If your day is filled with meetings, work, class, or other commitments, these activities take up a small chunk of time and can leave you feeling relaxed for the day ahead.
Many of these activities are also helpful if individuals are in quarantine, isolation, or close contact.
Refer to this list as many times as you need. Whichever activity you decide to choose, may it bring you peace and help you de-stress.
40 Activities to Recharge, Relax, and Prioritize YOU!
Read a chapter of a book.
Take yourself for a drive around the block (listening to a piece of favorite music or podcast is a plus!).
Practice a guided meditation or meditation exercise.*
Journaling your thoughts, goals, or dreams of the future (statements of gratitude help too).*
Create a vision board to explore your passions.
Put on your favorite TV show or movie.
Listen to your favorite podcast! (My favorite podcast is Crime Junkie!).
Go on a walk (bring a friend too if you want a buddy!).
Ignite your creative side a create a drawing or painting of your choice.
Connect with a friend or a loved one over Facetime.
Make plans with friends or family to have something to look forward to.
Try "online window shopping," go to your favorite retail websites and look at their products.
Try a paint by numbers activity (I could not recommend this activity more, it helps me wind down after a long day!).
Cook or bake your favorite meal/snack.
Engage in breathing exercises to center and ground yourself.*
If you enjoy organization, try sorting a cluttered cabinet or drawer.
Into Photography? Treat yourself to a nature photo session and take pictures.
Have a pet? Spend some time with them, take them for a walk, or fetch.
Get active! Try moving your body for at least 15 minutes.
Try a new app game on your phone.
Plan or coordinate a dream trip (Where will you go? What will you do there?)
Treat yourself to takeout.
Buy yourself your favorite beverage before class or work (coffee, tea, drink of choice, try decaf if you're trying to limit your caffeine intake).
Play a pickup game of your favorite sport (basketball, soccer, flag football, spike-ball, etc.).
Try a relaxing yoga session (YouTube offers a variety of free sessions!).
Repeat Positive Affirmation statements ( examples: I am worthy of the love I give to others, I am successful, I am smart, I am capable, I am strong).*
Book an appointment with a counselor or therapist (if able).
Rest (take a 15-minute power nap, or go to bed earlier than usual to get sufficient sleep).
Hop on Playstation, Xbox, or a Nintendo switch to play video games! (if you'd like, set up a live session where you can talk and hang out with friends while you play!).
Schedule a time to meet with a mentor or trusted adult.
If the weather allows, give yourself a beach trip (I recommend bringing your favorite snacks and book along!). No beach near you? Substitute the beach for a lake, pool, or hot tub!
Create a self-board on Pinterest (you can make an account for free and pin anything that brings you happiness to that board).
Grab a bike, scooter, rollerblades, skateboard, and go for a spin!
Listen to your favorite music, or explore new songs (music is a natural healer).
Take a long shower or bath (bubbles if you want).
Watch a sunrise or sunset (there are YouTube videos of them too!)
Try a craft activity, such as paper mache, beading, etc.
Check out this site https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/natural-wonder-bucket-list/index.html (includes a photo gallery of some of the most beautiful wonders of the world).
Try a new activity, recipe, or endeavor.
Wrap yourself in a blanket ( this can bring comfort, relaxation, and security for those struggling with anxious or depressive symptoms).
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