41 Simple, Self-Care Things to Do When You’re Having a Bad Day

We all have them – bad days are inevitable. I actually just had one of those off, annoying days where nothing seems to be going right.

Maybe it’s because Mercury is in Retrograde (gee thanks), or perhaps I’m just a bit out of alignment. Whatever the case may be, I always try to take some time to myself in order to lift my mood, regroup, and ground myself.

Whether you’re having a bad day or simply a down moment, there are many simple, self-care activities you can do to brighten up your day, lift your mood, and bring a smile to your face.

Here are 41 simple, self-care things you can do when you’re having a bad day:

1. Try to work through what’s going on.
2. Take a walk outside.
3. Spend a few minutes meditating.
4. Write down three things that you’re grateful for.
5. Light a candle.
6. Put your headphones in, block out the world, and listen to some music.
7. Take a bath or shower.
8. Read a book.
9. Do some breathing exercises.
10. Eat some chocolate.
11. Take a nap.
12. Write it out – journal how you’re feeling.
13. Call a loved one.
14. Take yourself out to lunch or dinner.
15. Watch a mindless TV show (my go-to is the Bachelor!).
16. Make some tea.
17. Get super organized.
18. Do something productive, perhaps something small, that will make you feel accomplished.
19. Cry, vent, and let it all out.
20. Get some exercise.
21. Look at some old photos and reminisce about a good time.
22. Look up some positive quotes.
23. Watch a funny video.
24. Change your environment.
25. Clean your room or home.
26. Distance yourself from negative people.
27. Pray.
28. Go for a drive.
29. Watch a motivational video or movie.
30. Dance or sing.
31. Unplug from technology and social media.
32. Do something nice for someone.
33. Spend time with a loved one.
34. Treat yourself! Get pampered.
35. Go to a museum or gallery (I love getting lost in the Met!).
36. Plan something exciting and fun to do for the rest of the day or for the future.
37. Order-in your favorite meal.
38. Recite some positive affirmations.
39. Buy yourself a small gift, like flowers.
40. Visualize how you want the rest of your day to go.
41. Smile because better days are coming 🙂

What do you like to do when you’re having a bad day? Comment below!

Related: 

• How a Simple Gratitude Exercise Changed My Life
• 10 Motivational Quotes to Keep You Going
• 5 Summer Self-Care & Wellness Tips
• 16 Inspirational Rumi Quotes to Enlighten Your Mind and Transform Your Thinking
• It’s Your Happiness! Quotes About Trusting Yourself & Owning Your Journey