10 Helpful Self-Care Ideas for Stress and Tough Days

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10 Helpful Self-Care Ideas for Stress and Tough Days

There is not a single person on this planet who doesn’t have tough days from time to time.

We all struggle, have our ups and downs, and feel upset or discouraged on occasion.

During those tough days, it is important to not block out any emotions we are feeling but to instead care for ourselves a little more than usual. 

When we pour into ourselves, we are creating space to handle hard times or decisions in a positive way.

Self-care is a vital part of coping with tough days.

We should turn to self-care before turning to get validation from others, a junk food binge, or even a bottle of wine!

Read through these self-care ideas for stress and take what you need, then leave the rest in the back of your mind for the future.

1. Unplug for the day

On tough days, the last thing you need is the constant distraction of social media, notifications, and text messages. Sure, it isn’t always possible to totally unplug (especially if you are working from home), but it is possible to set time limits on apps or delete apps for the day that are not serving you.

If you are having a tough day, try to avoid social media and being glued to your phone.

Being more present in your situation will make it easier to handle.

2. Take three deep breaths

Breathwork is a powerful tool, and thankfully it is free!

Whenever you need a quick reset but don’t have time for a long meditation or self-care practice, take some deep breaths.

Even if it is just three, it can make a huge difference and help you to feel less anxious and more present.

This is also a useful thing to do between tasks or meetings, as a calm transition.

Related Reads:
• 30 Ways to Practice Self-Love
• How to Create a Daily Self-Care Routine

3. Call a family member or friend who makes you laugh

Laughter is medicine for the soul, so don’t forget to use it often!

Sometimes, part of self-care is surrounding ourselves with the right kinds of people who lift us up and encourage us to be our best. These people cheer us on, make us laugh, and allow us to see the good in every situation.

If you are feeling overwhelmed, reach out to someone who makes you laugh, and notice how much better you feel afterward.

4. Put on an outfit that makes you feel confident

Something as small as what you wear can make an impact on your day.

Ask yourself “What do I want to wear today?” and follow the answer.

If you feel confident and are happy in leggings or sweats, then go for those! If you want to feel cute and flirty in a skirt or a dress, rock it!

The key is picking something that you feel good in.

Some people think that throwing on a dress and lipstick make them feel better, so why not give it a shot? 

5. Journal on your thoughts or emotions

Journaling can give you the time and space to process your thoughts and emotions in a healthy way.

Tough days can be…well, tough!

Sometimes while journaling, you will discover solutions that you wouldn’t have necessarily thought of before. Or, you will discover that your situation wasn’t as big of a deal after all!

Even if you don’t come to any hard conclusions, journaling will leave you feeling lighter and free your mind of the burden of constantly carrying around all your heavy thoughts.

6. Order carryout or delivery from your favorite restaurant

On tough days, you might not really have time to cook. We’ve all been there!

Instead of reaching for yet another protein bar or boxed mac-and-cheese, treat yourself to carryout or delivery from your favorite restaurant.

This will give you something to look forward to, and it can really turn your day around.

Part of self-care is noticing your desires and leaning into them, and this is a great way to practice that habit.

7. Take a long bubble bath before bed

I know I know, bubble bath on a self-care list? How predictable!

Here’s the thing—bubble baths are super relaxing!

At the end of a tough day, you need to take the time to relax, or else your head will be spinning when you try to go to sleep.

If you’ve never enjoyed bubble baths, try doing something you like during one like watching a show, reading a book, or listening to a podcast.

Incorporating some elements you love will make it a more fun experience for you!

8. Go for a walk outside

Nature has a way of grounding us and bringing us back home to ourselves.

Have you ever gained clarity after going for a walk or simply spending some time outside?

Nature reminds us what is truly important and helps us remember what really brings us joy.

Go for a walk outside as a break in your day.

At a minimum, you will feel more refreshed and relaxed.

You might even gain clarity on how to make your day easier and more manageable. 

9. Look in the mirror and say positive affirmations out loud to yourself

Positive affirmations are great ways to practice speaking love into ourselves.

They can help squash any limiting beliefs or negative self-talk we have been struggling with during our lives.

Some affirmations to start with include “I am strong”, “I am worthy”, and “I am loved”.

Tell yourself what you need to hear, and using a mirror will make it a more powerful experience.

10. Light a candle or diffuse essential oils

What if you could make your day more enjoyable, even by 10%? Would you do it?

Lighting a candle or diffusing essential oils is a great way to do this.

Taking this easy, extra step for yourself is an effective way to show yourself love and appreciation.

Better yet—many candle scents and essential oils are actually made to help with focus and/or relaxation, so this could serve you in a variety of ways.

In addition to these, it’s also recommended that you get routine doctor visits to ensure that your physical health is always in good condition. This should include a visit to a physician and a dentist. You can check out this dentist in Ballantyne NC to get started.

Final Thoughts

Isn’t it crazy how some of these small, simple ideas can transform your mindset and outlook on your day?

By making your day slightly more enjoyable through self-care, it will seem easier for you to tackle.

These self-care ideas minimize your stress and improve your focus.

Once you pour into yourself, you will be more able to pour into others in a positive way.

How do you practice self-care for stress on tough days?