Resilience

Self-Care Strategies for Resilience

While not a substitute for professional care, there are plenty of simple activities anyone can do to reduce stress, encourage wellness, and restore a sense of well-being during difficult times. You know yourself best. Do what works for you and don’t be afraid to try something new. Try one of these self-care activities the next time you need to take a step back, breathe, and focus on you.

Mind

  • Start a gratitude journal
  • Take a break
  • Set an intention for the day
  • Start a project (woodworking, paint a room)
  • Get creative (draw, paint, make music)
  • Try something new
  • Acknowledge something you've done well lately
  • Read a book
  • Express your feelings

Body

  • Drink a cup of tea
  • Go for a walk, run or bike ride
  • Do yoga
  • Do some pushups
  • Prepare your favorite meal
  • Hit the driving range or batting cage
  • Get a massage
  • Breathe slowly three times
  • Take a bath

Soul

  • Ask for help (or a hug)
  • Volunteer for a cause
  • Tell someone you love them
  • Follow social media that makes you feel good (and filter out the rest)
  • Leave work on time (to rest and restore)
  • Set boundaries for yourself
  • Write a poem
  • Call a friend

Scenery

  • Make an area of your home tidy and comfortable
  • Get out into nature
  • Watch a sunset or sunrise
  • Go for a drive with the windows down
  • Go to the dog park
  • Frame a favorite photo and put it where you can see it
  • Watch a sporting event
  • Meet a friend in the park
  • Put on your favorite song
  • Go to the movies

From afsp.org