Past Clues
Think about what has worked in the past. For me, sitting next to a lake or pond, just looking out helps me feel restored. I don’t even have to go into the water. Doing this simple activity has gotten me through some hard moments.
Get Creative
The arts are accessible to all of us. You can try coloring mandalas (geometric design) which are free online, adult coloring books, or try art journaling. Feel free to doodle in your notebook the way you did when you were in school. Take an art class for the fun of it. Is there something, such as pottery, that you have always wanted to learn?
Write a story of a situation that bothers you and imagine different endings. Journal about a favorite moment on your favorite vacation. Poetry can capture different moods.
Visualize something that you are looking forward to. Use all of your 5 senses.
Music
I’ve mentioned this before, but music can always change your mood in an instant. Think of the music played at a spa to guide you in your choices to feeling calmer. Music that is peaceful, such as classical or jazz music, can help you relieve your anxiety and stress. Natural sounds such as flowing water or ocean waves have been proven to help reduce the stress response.
Find Some Green
Nature is one of the best ways since it taps into awe. There are so many ways to incorporate nature into your life, even if you are limited with your time. Look outside your window. Look at photos of nature. Take care of plants. Hang a bird feeder outside your window. Bring natural objects such as pine comes or pebbles into your workspace. Use natural prints for your wall paper or stationary.
Create a list on your phone of your favorites so you have activities that will soothe you when you have a few minutes.
