Writing can be a great way to get our thoughts and feelings out of our brains and onto paper. Journaling gives us the ability to not only document hard things but also to document our accomplishments and good memories. By writing down the good things you are creating a record of your personal growth, so that you have the ability to feel good about how far you've come.

Whether you are great at drawing or you just like to doodle, this can be a fun way to self-care and relieve stress. Doodling does not require any fancy artistic ability or fancy supplies. Just run your pencil, pen, crayon or marker across the page and see where you end up. It allows you to fire up your imagination. If you cannot find words for your feelings, drawing and doodling can give you what you are looking for and is scientifically proven to help your memory.

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Coloring has the ability to help calm the fear center of your brain, the amygdala. Coloring has been proven to help reduce stress and anxiety. Coloring does the same thing to your brain as meditation because it reduces your uneasy thoughts. Coloring can be a form of grounding and mindfulness when dealing with our emotions. You can download coloring page apps to your phones, tablets or laptops and color virtually.

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Journaling for Beginners

Doodling for Beginners

Coloring Guide

Music can be one of the most powerful and moving self-care strategies, EVER! Studies show that listening to music distracts the mind and helps soothe stress and anxiety. Music depends on the person but more upbeat tunes tend to make you feel lighter. Whatever your musical taste, during times of high anxiety or stress put on your favorite feel good song or artist and allow yourself time to focus on the sounds.

Meditation is a technique used all over the world and in many different cultures. Often times, meditation can lead to better focus, concentration and an overall better sense of self. Meditating can help reduce our stress and anxiety.

Mindfulness is a way for us to be present in the moment. What does that mean? Well, it means that we keep our focus in the moment and we honor the things we feel and where our hearts are in the moment. For example, "that was a really hard situation but I am allowed to be sad and confused right now." Mindfulness allows us time to ground our thoughts and emotions in a way that honors our feelings.

Relaxation Music

Guided Meditation

Mindfulness Explained