12 Easy Self Care Activities to Cheer Yourself Up

There are a number of reasons why you may want a little extra pampering on a down day. Whether you’re struggling with your mental health, you’re feeling stressed or you’re just a bit tired, everybody needs some cheering up every now and then. While self care is first and foremost about making sure that your basic needs are met and cared for, your mental and emotional health matters, too. And that means taking some time for self care activities that make you smile.

Everybody has their own way of cheering themself up, so there are a variety of activities out there for every persuasion. While you may find yourself gravitating towards a few of these more than others, you may want to try out something different, too. Who knows? You may be surprised about what can bring you joy! Here are just a few self care activities you can use to cheer yourself up.

1. Make a Cup of Tea

Sometimes, all it takes is a hot cup of tea to cheer yourself up and bring a bit of coziness and joy to your day. If you’re feeling down, pick out your favorite blend and enjoy it with a movie in the evening or a mindful breakfast in the morning!

2. Meditate for Five Minutes

Sometimes, stillness is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. Meditation is a relaxing, uplifting practice that can definitely help you feel cared for. If you don’t want to devote five minutes, you can even try it out for a minute or two to see how you like it.

3. Call a Friend

If you don’t feel like spending your day alone, you can always reach out to your support system! Even if you laugh and catch up or talk about something totally unrelated to the stressors of life, company truly can make a difference.

4. Take a Relaxing Bath

Yes, self care is more than just taking bubble baths, but you can still experience the relaxation of a bubble bath and soak up all the warm sensations! Drop in some Epsom salts and work in some healing action while you’re at it!

5. Order Food

Sometimes, it’s okay to need a bit of extra help when it comes to nourishing yourself — and other times, you need a little treat as a pick-me-up. Order in for one meal and pamper yourself a little! Even better if it’s one of your favorites.

6. Do Something Creative

Being creative is a great way to feel a bit better no matter what you’re down about. Try writing something creative, doing a crafting project, sketching or working with your hands. Or you can find another activity that gets your creative juices flowing!

7. Read a Book

While watching a movie or show can let you sit back and relax, but what about escaping into another world through the journey of words? Curling up with a great book is one of the best ways to relax and engage in some imaginative escapism. 

8. Light Some Candles for Ambiance

If you’re in the mood for a bit of ambiance and mood lighting, why not light some candles around your place and enjoy the relaxation? Not only do candles look beautiful, but they smell great, too. Find one in your favorite scent and let it radiate through your home.

9. Practice Gratitude

Whether you start a gratitude journal, do a gratitude meditation or say positive affirmations to yourself and those around you, practicing gratitude can give you a positive outlook and help you cheer up, even when you’re having a down day.

10. Take a Nature Walk

Getting outdoors is a sure-fire way to boost your mood. Spending time in nature can be a meditative and relaxing experience, and at the same time can bring a sense of adventure and new scenery. Nature walks give you a chance to move your body and feel at one with nature — what could be better?

11. Put On Your Favorite Cozy Outfit

Nothing says self care like comfortable clothes that make you feel great. Whether you like to lounge in athleisure, jeans or sweats, donning your favorite cozy outfit can lift your mood and make you feel as comfy as ever.

12. Unplug

Every once in a while, putting your devices down and taking some time away from your screens can be a great way to practice self care. Not only can it feel great for your eyes and your body, but it can also help you practice mindfulness and take space between your thoughts.

Simple Self Care Activities

Everybody practices self care differently, and when you need a little pick-me-up, there’s no shortage of great activities you can choose from. Whether you’re the nature walk type of the bookish type, you can find the activities that work for you and help you feel supported and cared for.