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Wellness > Mental Health

Ways to Practice Self-Care When You’re Feeling Stressed Out

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Illinois chapter.

As we head into the colder months when the sun isn’t shining as long each day and we’re forced to spend more time indoors, it’s important to be introspective and check on yourself from time to time to make sure you’re doing all you can to feel your best. In this article, I’m going to be sharing some self care tips for when you’re feeling overwhelmed or down in the dumps and need a little pick me up. I think everyone can feel this way every once in a while, so if you’re interested in ways to get out of your next funk, keep on reading!

1. Move Your Body

I know it seems so simple, but moving your body in any fashion truly can lift your spirits. I know it’s probably the last thing most of us want to do when we’re feeling down, I mean hey, I’m not excited to workout even on days when I’m in a good mood. However, whenever I do, I always end up feeling more energized and positive or at least proud of myself for getting some exercise. One of my favorite ways to move my body when I’m feeling down is going on a walk with a loved one, pet, or even alone while listening to my favorite music or podcast. Another option would be to do some yoga, which I’ve found to be very relaxing and enjoyable, especially when you turn down the lights and add some candles to the room. Whatever your favorite way to move your body is, even just getting up and doing something for 10-15 minutes, is sure to make you feel better and is an excellent form of self care. 

Silhouette of woman doing yoga at sunset
Photo by Kike Vega from Unsplash

2. Pamper Yourself

When you’re feeling down, the smallest pick me up can help you feel like you just won a million bucks because anything is better than being sad. This can mean applying a face or hair mask, ordering your favorite meal, getting your nails done, etc. Whatever pampering yourself means to you, make sure you take the time to appreciate your body and your mind every once in a while and all it does for you and reward yourself! 

girl wearing a mud mask
Unsplash

3. Journal

If I’m being honest, I love to write, but I’m so bad at consistently journaling. I always plan to; I go buy the cute journals and pens thinking that will force me into wanting to journal daily, but I just always seem to forget or fall out of the routine after a few weeks. However, when I’m feeling down or stressed out, I’ve found that journaling is incredibly therapeutic. Again, I know this is something that everyone recommends, but there truly is something about opening up your journal and letting the thoughts and emotions pour out of you onto the page. It’s so freeing and it feels like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders every time I do it. Next time you’re feeling incredibly overwhelmed, try writing all your feelings down. You might just be surprised at the wonders it will do for your mental health and stress levels. 

Black girl at computer desk writing in journal write natural work corporate african
Photo by RF._.studio from Pexels
 

Hi! My name is Isabella Sohn and I am a Junior at UIUC studying communications with a minor in leadership.
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