Maybe you feel like you’ve experimented with every self-care idea in the book – yet you’re still
not feeling like yourself. It might be time to get outside of your comfort zone and try something
entirely new. Today, Willow’s Gold shares some time-tested self-care tips that can make all the
difference, from taking regular walks to going back to school or starting a nonprofit.
Establish a Nonprofit
Finding new ways to serve others can improve your own well-being, too. For instance, if you
have the time, you could consider forming your own nonprofit to address an issue in your
community.
Once you’ve officially registered your organization as a nonprofit corporation, you’ll have a
smoother time qualifying for lots of special grants and public funding. In order to form a nonprofit
corporation, you’ll have to complete a few preliminary tasks, like establishing bylaws that detail
your approach to operations. Your bylaws should cover information like how your nonprofit will
be governed, your board meeting schedule, and how you’ll handle conflicts of interest.
Go Back to School
We never stop learning – so if you’ve been thinking about going back to school, now could be
the time! There are plenty of degree opportunities out there. For instance, if you have a way with
technology, getting a bachelor’s degree in information technology could really open doors for
you. And thanks to the flexibility of online learning platforms, you can proceed at your own pace,
without having to take tons of time away from your other responsibilities.
Plant a Garden
Spending some time with your hands in the dirt can actually boost your mood! Consider setting
up raised garden beds in your backyard. If you’re living in an apartment with limited outdoor
space, you can get potted plants for your balcony, or grow herbs in your kitchen window. If you
don’t know where to begin, there are plenty of sites offering in-depth gardening advice and
product reviews from online resources.
Go Birdwatching
Birdwatching can be a welcome distraction from the stressors of everyday life. Through
birdwatching, you can get in touch with nature and learn more about local wildlife. You can go
birdwatching at the beach, in the woods, or simply set up a birdfeeder at your house.
Find an Art Therapist
Perhaps you haven’t had much success in talk therapy so far. Consider trying a different
approach, like art therapy. Everyday Health states that art therapy can help you find relief from
stress, alleviate the symptoms of conditions like anxiety and depression, and improve your self-esteem.
Take Daily Walks
Have you been cooped up in your house lately? Exercising can be tough if you’re struggling with
your mental health, but going for daily walks is a gentle way to move your body. If your own
neighborhood isn’t particularly pedestrian-friendly, you could head to a community with a walk
score of 70 or higher instead.
Book a Camping Trip
If you book a camping trip, you can get off the grid for a couple of days to decompress.
Beyonder Camp states that camping can regulate your mood and sleep cycle, allowing you to
find balance away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Try Reiki 
Reiki involves light touching to balance the energies in your body. By booking a session with a
reiki practitioner, Town & Country states that you can soothe your anxiety and release tension in
your body.
Cook at Home
Cooking can be a surprisingly relaxing activity! If you have a habit of eating out at restaurants or
ordering delivery regularly, why not try recreating some of your favorite restaurant dishes at
home? You’ll master new skills, and you’ll get to enjoy lots of tasty meals in the process.
Healing from mental health struggles isn’t easy. This process takes time, and you’ll need to
figure out which strategies and routines serve you best. By making time for fulfilling activities like
going back to school, taking walks, volunteering, gardening, and more, you might find yourself
feeling a little better on a daily basis.
For more fun and uplifting articles, visit willowsgold.com. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to comment below.
Guest Post by Brenda Kirby
