Practicing Self-Care

Finding activities that help you to relax and recharge is an important part of your health. Whether you like to hike, do yoga, write or dance, here is list of activities you can do to manage stress and take care of yourself.

• Run, walk or hike outside
• Practice yoga or stretching
• Meditate
• Spend time outside enjoying nature and getting fresh air
• Drink a cup of tea
• Cook yourself a healthy meal
• Play with a family pet or a friend’s pet
• Spend time with friends and family
• Spend quiet time alone
• Sing or dance to your favorite songs
• Play board games
• Play games outside with your friends or family
• Take a nap
• Let yourself sleep a bit more than you usually do
• Spend time every day showing your creativity in your favorite way, like painting, dancing or writing
• Write in a blog, journal or notebook
• Paint a picture
• Clean your room or other rooms in your house
• Spend time in the garden
• Use aromatherapy, which is using different scents (smells) to change your mood
• Make a gratitude list. A gratitude list a list of everything and everyone you’re thankful for!

Rev. 5/2015. MassGeneral Hospital for Children and Massachusetts General Hospital do not endorse any of the brands listed on this handout. This handout is intended to provide health information so that you can be better informed. It is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to treatment of any medical conditions.