OT Corner: 25 Nice Things to Do for Yourself
By Amy Wagenfeld, Ph.D, OTR/L
Originally printed in June, 2006

I think this column is a departure from a typical OT kind-of-a-thing to 
talk about, but perhaps it is not.  An occupational therapist is concerned 
with maximizing function through occupation or activity, so by doing nice 
things for you, well, I guess that qualifies as an activity and thus is 
OT oriented.  Not much more explanation needed except to suggest that 
choosing and trying even one of these ideas may make you feel more ready 
and able to face the everyday challenges associated with life.

1. When you wake up in the morning, make you first thought be, “hooray!”

2. Look in the mirror and smile at yourself.

3. When it snows, go outside and make snow angels with the kids.

4. Dab a drop of lavender essential oil on your temples (be sure you are 
not allergic to it first).

5. Paint your toenails a really funky color (mine are green right now).

6. Take a bubble or aromatherapy bath.

7. Use paper plates and plastic utensils for one meal so that clean up 
will be a cinch.

8. Write a friend a snail-mail letter; it is so much more personal than e-mail.

9. If your kids are at an age when it is safe, burn candles during dinner.

10. Have a dance party with the kids —  play some of your old favorites!  
They will crack up!

11. Play dress up WITH the kids; it is fun to see their reaction to a mom 
or dad engaging in pretend play.

12. Eat dessert before dinner some night.

13. Listen to soothing or relaxing music (if anyone wants a list of my top 
picks, let me know).

14. Sing!  I highly recommend music performed by an all women’s group called
Libana; it is great fun to sing along with them.

15. Take 10 deep-cleansing breaths.

16. Slowly roll your shoulders — first forward, then in a backwards motion.

17. Pay attention to whether your shoulders are hunched up, and if so, 
gently release them, and feel them relax.

18. Make a list of everything you have already done today... and cross 
everything off!

19. Rub lotion on your legs and hands.

20. Laugh out loud at something that just feels funny.

21. Instead of getting angry with yourself for something that has happened, 
laugh it off.

22. Give yourself a hug.

23. This is tough, but if you can do it, let something (a chore for instance) 
just go until tomorrow, and know that it is okay.

24. Think of at least five things that you are grateful for.

25. Declare every day the best day of all.

Wishing you peace and gladness, and many days filled with wonder and joy.