Ideas for Self-Nurturing Activities

• practice deep breathing until you relax 

• get a therapeutic massage 

• soak your feet in special foot soap/scrub/lotion – or get a foot massage 

• stretch 

• take a nap 

• take a long walk or a run 

• read 

• take at least thirty minutes alone time per day 

• rent a comedy video 

• light candles 

• have fun playing a game or doing a puzzle 

• take a holiday – even for 24 hours 

• find a special, quiet place and make it your own 

• eat healthy 

• plan ahead - schedule medical and dental appointments 

• sit by a fireplace 

• be creative.... sing, dance, paint or write 

• do something you've never done before 

• enjoy a hot drink 

• enjoy some silence 

• dance to some great music 

• don’t answer the phone for a while 

• do a crossword 

• spend an afternoon at the library 

• plant a garden - plant something… weed something 

• pick fresh flowers (maybe wild flowers) or buy a small bouquet  

• keep a diary or journal 

• enjoy a manicure or pedicure 

• enjoy time with children 

• join an interest group 

• listen to your favourite music 

• share a hug 

• lie on the grass…or the carpet…. and stretch out

 • reflect on your positive qualities: “I am…” 

• watch the sunrise or the sunset 

• enjoy a long, warm bubble bath or a long, warm shower 

• write down thoughts and feelings about what’s happening for you on paper 

• attend a favourite event 

• do something adventurous 

• sing, hum or whistle 

• play an instrument 

• meditate 

• learn a new skill 

• see a play, movie or concert 

• work out at a gym 

• ride a bike 

• bake favourite treats 

• swim, float, wade, relax in a pool, or on the beach 

• sew something 

• visit a special place you enjoy 

• imagine yourself achieving your goals and dreams 

• go horseback riding 

• join a team to play a sport 

• forgive others 

• reflect on “my most enjoyable memories”

 • enjoy a nap

 • visit a museum or an art gallery 

• practice yoga 

• relax in a hot pool /sauna 

• enjoy a glass of water or juice 

• reflect on what you’re thankful for… 

• pray 

• play things that you did as a child 

• star gaze 

• stay up late - get up early… 

• daydream 

• attend an interesting workshop 

• go sailing or surfing or swimming in the sea 

• reward yourself with a special gift you can afford 

• practice positive affirmations – I can…I am… 

• spend time with an animal 

• watch your favourite TV show or DVD 

• relax… watch the clouds

• make yourself something nice 

• walk in nature – sit in nature 

• read positive, motivational books 

• reflect on: “what and what do I value most in life…?” 

• reflect on: “who values me in life…?” 

• phone a friend 

• go on a picnic 

• start a new hobby 

• hug a tree 

• meet with good friends 

• cry if you need to 

• laugh as much as possible 

• reread a favourite book – or treat yourself to a new one 

• make a list of your strengths, talents and abilities without holding back 

• spend time with people who are affirming, optimistic, positive and replenishing 

• save notes and letters that are complementary - read them often 

• what else?