A Big Giant List of Self Care and Coping

Often times in therapy, we discuss and explore your individualized coping skills used when feeling increased feelings (ie sadness, anxiety, stress, etc) as well as self care techniques. Sometimes it's hard to think about what kind of things you like to do for just YOU and often times it can be even harder to think about what you might want to try as a new tool. So, I figured I would compile a big giant list of different coping techniques and skills, as well as self care tips. That way if you ever need ideas- here you go!

• reading (magazines, new recipes, books, journals, etc)

• going for a walk

• exercise

• cooking

• taking a shower or bath

• talking to a friend or loved one

• listening to music

• dance party!

• journal (all my clients will here me encourage them to do this almost every session!)

• yoga/stretching

• gratitude list- even listing simply 4 things you are grateful for

• mindfulness

• grounding

• deep breathing or intentional breathing

• listen to your favorite podcast

• paint/color

• laugh! listen to your favorite comedian

• if you have a pet, play or cuddle with them

• organize something (your room, a cabinet, etc)

• do something kind for yourself or someone else

• make someone else laugh

• visit a new place (library, park, restaurant, store, etc)

• start a puzzle

• do a word puzzle (word search, crossword, sudoku, wordle)

• identify your strengths

• reframe or identify another option/solution/opportunity

• focus on positive self talk

• think of your favorite memory

• create an action plan on things that are in your control

• pray or visit your place of spirituality or religion

• hang out with friends

• create something to look forward to

• read poetry

• learn something new

• listen to a guided relaxation

• buy flowers

• rest your legs up on a wall

• take a break from social media

• focus on your senses (what you do see, hear, smell, taste, and touch)

• drink water

• get some sunlight

• sit by a body of water (lake, pond, ocean, anything!)

• set new goals

• create a vision board

• take your medication as prescribed if applicable

• create or find a new playlist

• doodle (even if you're not great at it!)

• hug someone

• watch the sunrise, sunset, or clouds

• make a nutritious meal (or just your favorite meal/snack!)

• build something

• craft something

• ask yourself how you are feeling and what you need

• find an inspiring quote

• jumping jacks

• make a list

• identify what is within your control

• hang a picture or decorate your space

• declutter your email or working space

• watch a show that makes you laugh (make sure you limit this!

• compliment yourself

• use an "I feel" statement

• relax and do nothing for 30-60 minutes (set a timer)

• write down your feelings

• take some pictures

• wash your face

• go to a farmers market

• plant flowers

• set boundaries

• garden

• stargaze

• intentional breathing

• play a game

And most importantly remember that you are loved and worthy of taking care of yourself!