Self-Soothing Activities

Social Activities

-talk to a friend

-talk with a family member

-play a board game with someone

-hug someone

-meet new people

-window shop

-go to the beach

-email friends

-limited social networking

-help someone

-go to the library or book store

-go to a museum or art gallery

Sensory Activities

-smell something strong (ex. Coffee, scented oils, candles)

-open the window and breath in fresh air

-make cookies, bread or popcorn

-drink something cold or hot

-eat something spicy, sour, bitter, chewy or crunchy

-notice things in nature

-listen to things in nature

-look at beautiful scenery and/or the night sky

-wear comfortable clothing

-doodle, color

- listen to a song and try to identify each instrument

-wrap up in a blanket

-sit in a comfortable chair

-soak your feet

-get a massage

-take a cold or hot shower or bath

-use your favorite soap or lotion

-watch the sunrise and/or sunset

Active Activities

-collect things (ex. Rocks, shells, stamps, etc.)

-go to a movie

-go for a walk

-lay in the sun

-laugh

-engage in hobbies

-practice yoga, karate or tai chi

-fix a broken item

-care for plants

-exercise, stretch

-play a sport

-ride a bike

-donate something that you no longer need

-write a gratitude list

-sing

-dance

-arrange flowers

-organize

-paint

-take a drive

-play a musical instrument

-make something for someone else

-cook

-write a story, poem or journal entry

-hike

-read a book or magazine

-photography

-fish

-play with pet

-clean

-have a picnic

-crossword puzzles or sudoku

-look at photos

-take a bath or shower

-do a jigsaw puzzle

-play cards

-write a letter to someone

-make a smoothie and drink it slowly

-garden

-learn something new

-build something

-help someone

-knit, crochet or sew

-rock in a rocking chair

Quiet Activities

-listen to music, podcast, audio book

-think about your accomplishments

-think of positive memories

-remember kind things that others have done

-cheerlead yourself (ex. “I can do this”, “I am worthy of peace and calm”)

-practice religion/spirituality

-take a nap

-daydream

-deep breathing

-meditation

-fantasize

-picture a happy place

-progressive muscle relaxation

-take a bubble bath

-draw a picture and color it