Help4Trauma.org: Nurturing Yourself

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Ways to Nurture Yourself


Aside from supporting yourself, self-nuturing is also an important tool. It enables you to properly take care of yourself. This concept is very hard for many. We were taught at a very young age that we were not important, but that couldn't be further from the truth. You will make a very positive change in trying just one of the activities listed below, even if just once a week. Every bit counts. Dont forget that you can't help take care of the needs of other's until you first take care of your own.


  1. Listen to your favorite music.
  2. Enjoy a long, warm bubble bath.
  3. Share a hug with a loved one.
  4. Exercise
  5. Relax outside
  6. Spiritual prayer
  7. Attend a caring support group.
  8. Practice diaphragmatic breathing.

  9. Watch the sunset or sunrise.
  10. Laugh

  11. Reflect on how far you've come (even if it doesn't seem like much, you HAVE progressed).
  12. Write your thoughts and feeling down in a journal.
  13. Play a musical instrument.
  14. Ride a bike.
  15. Fix yourself a nutritious meal.
  16. Visit a special place.
  17. Enjoy a relaxing nap.
  18. Visit a museum or art gallery.
  19. Enjoy a cool glass of water or fruit juice.
  20. Enjoy the beauty of nature.
  21. Count you blessings (I'm thankful for...).
  22. Window shop.
  23. Go canoeing.
  24. Reward yourself with a special gift that you can afford.
  25. Pet an animal.
  26. Watch your favorite t.v. show.
  27. Write poetry.
  28. Make something nice for youself.
  29. Read positive, motivational literature.
  30. Reflect on the things you value in your life.
  31. Phone a special friend.
  32. Go on a picnic in a beautiful setting.
  33. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee
  34. Practice a relaxation excersize or listen to a relaxation tape.
  35. Treat yourself to a nutritious meal at your favorite restaurant.
  36. Participate in a hobby.
  37. Surf the internet.
  38. play cards with a group of friends.
  39. throw a party.
  40. Cuddle with a blanket and teddy bear.
  41. Meditate
  42. Cuddle with you significant other.
  43. Engage in spiritual prayer for your healing and for that of others.


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    Art by Benita Winkler