A Collection of Self-Soothing Activities
When you are experiencing painful feelings that are particularly hard for you to cope with, here is a list of ways you might soothe yourself. Look through the list to see if any of these ideas are helpful to you. You can also check out the relaxation video from the Mayo Clinic.
Phone a friend or relative - or stop by for a visit
Daydream
Meditate
Take a bath or shower
Help someone else
Have a good cry
Go shopping for something you need
Think positive thoughts
Clean
Go for a car ride - or bike ride - or a walk
Think about someone who cares about you
Work to understand and accept your feelings
Apply logic to your situation
Pray
Organize things
Listen to music
Make social plans
Write in a diary or journal
Exercise
Talk yourself into a calmer state
Go to sleep
Engage in a hobby
Think about things in a realistic way
Think about the happiness of others
Spend time with your pet
Focus on your breathing
Stay busy
Take a walk
Think about someone you care about
Remember that there are others in less fortunate circumstances
Ask someone for help
Imagine talking to your therapist
Focus on the feeling until it passes
Create something
Cook or bake
Plan the future
Sit down and relax
Look for elements of humor in what you feel
Remind yourself that you’ve gotten through it before
Plan how to change the situation that led up to the feelings
Wait for the feelings to subside. They won't last forever. I promise :-)
Vent your feelings – hit something soft like a pillow
Give yourself a treat
Be around children
Drink coffee or tea
Get some sun (don't try this in January in Bellingham or you'll be sadly disappointed)
Sing
Engage in sports with others
Attend something entertaining like a movie or concert
Talk about it with someone
Get a massage
Play a musical instrument
Read something you find inspiring
Seek out sources of comedy
Involve yourself in your religion
Go to a location you find peaceful or harmonious
Try a new food recipe
Contact a person from your past
Volunteer at something you find useful
Write a letter
Buy or pick some flowers
Visit a pet store
Watch TV
Watch less TV