Ideas for self help/care for 10 days

[Selfhelp2019]

So I am off work with anxiety and have a week off. I have started some medication and I am on a health kick in terms of eating and drinking no alcohol and mainly lemon water as well as a cup of tea each morning.

Looking for inspiration to really unwind. Thinking a daily walk or couch to 5k. Also starting a new book because I have been unable to read.

Any suggestions/experiences welcome.

Long bath with Epsom salts.

A daily walk is a good start. When I was off work with anxiety I went swimming too. I also started yoga and I still go to classes once a week over a year later I love it. Learn to meditate - there are some great apps. Have a bubble bath. Read books. Get crafty - make something. Cook or bake from scratch. All these things will sooth you. Practice mindfulness. Eating well is also a great start and will help you feel good. Best of luck OP anxiety is horrible x

Oh. And spend less time on social media/ phone. That really doesn't help x

Build up gradually. Have nourishing, comforting meals like chicken soup or casserole. Have a blanket on the sofa and some magazines if concentrating is difficult. Have a shower or bath. Buy some fruit that you enjoy eating. Remember your meds if you are on them. A short walk around the block is a great start. Be kind to yourself.

Don't watch the news or anything threatening- crime dramas etc.

Go for a manicure/pedicure, if that is your thing. Or a new haircut. Or a massage. Just things that might make you feel better.
Try and make sure that you get your "five (or ten!) a day" - try and make home cooked food from scratch, rather than ready meals or takeaways.
If you have a garden, could you plant some seeds/veggies - or get the ground ready for when the time is right to plant. I believe we are being encouraged to plant flowers that will attract bees. Try and put out water/food for the birds - it is quite therapeutic to watch them eat!

I live with anxiety and am finally having more good days than bad.
I like to get out for a morning walk as much as possible. It really lifts my mood.
Once a week I will go to a nice cafe for lunch and buy something small in town, a lipstick or a new bubble bath to make myself feel special. I also try to fit in a trip to the library for a browse. I love a good novel. I remember the days when I found a magazine hard going as I was so anxious I couldn't concentrate and the words just jumbled on the page. I really appreciate reading again now.
A good journal to write down your thoughts or maybe a gratitude diary might be an idea?
I often use the calm app too and the sleep stories were great if I couldn't sleep.

Listening to soothing music helps too. You will be OK

If you have a pet, enjoy giving them love and attention. My cat and rabbits give affection back which is really lovely.

Knitting. I was useless at it but it gave me something to focus on and very therapeutic

Youtube guided meditation is really good uf you can't sleep. Just listen to the audio on headphones and it helps you to relax.