• Do deep breathing exercises.
• Get a therapeutic massage.
• Treat yourself to a new body cream/lotion.
• Wear your favourite, comfortable clothing.
• Exercise.
• Soak feet in special foot soap (Johnson's, Scholl's).
• Join a yoga or stretching class weekly.
• Take a nap.
• Take a long walk.
• Read.
• Spend time with people who are affirming, optimistic and nurturing.
• Play/work outdoors (skiing, rollerblading, walking, barbecueing).
• Save notes and letters that are complementary. Read them often.
• Learn new skills.
• Engage in a new hobby.
• Write down self-positive adjectives.
• Notice and appreciate humour.
• Pray or meditate.
• Take at least thirty minutes alone time per day.
• Rent a comedy video.
• Light candles; buy fragrant candles.
• Puzzles, clay or silly putty.
• Plan a vacation - call a travel agent.
• Image and visualize - concentrate on a comforting scene.
• Bring comforting photos to work (loved ones, vacations).
• Order a pizza.
• Take a break.
• Find a special, quiet place and make it your own.
• Eat healthy snacks, watch nutrition; take vitamins.
• Plan ahead - schedule medical and dental appointments.
• Sit under the glow of a warm fireplace.
• Nourish your body with healthful warming soups.
• Allow yourself to discover new things about "you.
• Add new elements that you want to include in your life.
• Notice your strengths.
• Realize that wherever you are today is the place to start.
• Be creative....sing, dance, paint or write.
• Share happiness with someone else.
• Do something you've never done before.
• Nurture a loving atmosphere in your home.
• Enjoy a nice cup of coffee or tea in silence.
• Just sitting and listening to music that makes you feel good.
• Dancing all by yourself to really loud, fun music.
• Draw, paint or just colour in a child's colouring book.
• Talking on the phone to friends or not answering the phone at all.
• Prepare yourself a good home-cooked meal.
• Go for a walk. Do some exercise or practice yoga.
• Do a crossword.
• Spend an afternoon at the library or Chapters and read for free.
• Plant a garden, pick fresh flowers or buy a small bouquet.
• Take the time to write in a journal.
• Enjoy a manicure or pedicure - share the experience with a friend.
• Enjoy time with children.
• Laugh from the belly.
• Join a group.
• Call the helpline (642-3000) or distress line (667-6711).

London Abused Women's Centre, 2003