32 Self-Care Ideas to Try When You're Feeling Stressed, Depressed, or Anxious

In our day and age, there are a million things constantly demanding our attention. The notifications, the ads, the social media updates, the latest trends, the sale countdowns... it never seems to stop. In a society that celebrates hustle culture and materialism, it can be hard to slow down and silence the noise. But it's important that we find time to do so, because life is stressful and our bodies and minds need a break -- to process, reflect, relax, and refresh. 

What is self-care?

You have probably heard of the term "self-care" before. Thankfully, it is becoming a more integral part of our society's vocabulary, encouraging people to not feel guilty taking care of themselves to avoid burnout and breakdown. While people often picture bubble baths and candles, self-care is any type of activity that helps you preserve or promote your mental well-being.

Self-Care Ideas

If you have yet to identify self-care activities that work for you, I have shared a list of some ideas you can try below. Of course, I highlighted my personal favorites... a bunch of different types of arts and crafts. There's something extra therapeutic about engaging in creative processes!

Everyone needs something that ignites their passion when everyday life feels mundane, that helps them relax when they feel overwhelmed by stress, that restores their energy when they're approaching empty, and that allows them to express themselves or process their emotions when they feel like too much. This list is just a starting point -- there are plenty of other great self-care activities -- but I hope it helps you in finding things that work for you. 

1. Bake a favorite recipe.
2. Take a nap. 
3. Talk to a friend. 
4. Take a hot shower. 
5. Cuddle a pet. 
6. Read a book. 
7. Go for a nature walk. 
8. Listen to or play music. 
9. Watch a favorite TV show. 
10. Play a game. 
11. Exercise. 
12. Journal. 
13. Watch funny videos. 
14. Pamper yourself. 
15. Piece a puzzle together. 
16. Sewing.
17. Cross stitch. 
18. Crochet. 
19. Painting. 
20. Embroidery. 
21. Scrapbooking. 
22. Beading. 
23. Drawing. 
24. Needle felting. 
25. Lettering. 
26. Punch needle. 
27. Flower pressing. 
28. Wood carving. 
29. Card making. 
30. Origami. 
31. Coloring. 
32. Metal stamping. 

Check out these related articles: 

7 Ways Crafting Improves Mental Health

The Benefits of Trying A New Craft: Our Experience Glass Blowing

I hope you found this article helpful. And if you did, there's plenty more where that came from on my Instagram and Pinterest pages. I'd love to connect with you there, so please give me a follow and a shout!