Your Body
- Schedule a check-up.
- Do something active to increase your flexibility, stamina, or strength.
- Take a hot bath or long shower to relax and unwind.
- Give yourself a manicure, pedicure, or facial.
- Treat yourself to a massage or a new hairstyle.
- Wear clothes that are attractive, comfortable, and fit your current size and shape.
- Clear clutter and create a pleasant space that helps you feel happy and calm.
- Plant a garden and grow fresh vegetables, herbs, or flowers.
- Spend time in nature walking, hiking, or sitting.
- Download 101 Things to Do Besides Eat
Your Mind
- Challenge yourself to think positively and powerfully.
- Give your brain a map to follow by setting inspiring goals.
- Learn a new skill or language.
- Do brainteasers and play challenging games.
- Be creative; experiment with art, crafts, and hobbies.
- Listen to music, sing, or play an instrument.
- Take classes online or at your local community center or college.
- Participate in stimulating discussion groups (like this one!).
- Travel—or explore areas close to home like museums.
Your Heart
- Accept yourself as you are right now.
- Embrace the full spectrum of emotions for the depth and richness they bring to your life.
- Spend quality time with your family and friends.
- Schedule a date night to build intimacy with your partner.
- Identify your feelings by writing in a journal or talking with a trusted friend or counselor.
- Set appropriate boundaries for healthier relationships.
- Assert yourself to let others know how you feel, what you think, and what you need. Accept that beyond that, you can’t control what other people think, feel, or do.
- While it’s not possible or even desirable to eliminate stress, learn to manage it.
- Practice forgiveness. Harboring anger and hurt is harmful and eats up precious emotional energy.
- Be vulnerable. This deepens intimacy and frees you from the need to be perfect.
- Seek coaching, counseling, or therapy if needed for emotional support and to build coping skills.
Your Spirit
- Practice mindfulness. Be fully present in whatever you’re doing—eating, talking, working, playing—to experience pleasure and meaning.
- Renew and restore yourself through prayer and meditation.
- Schedule time for your inner work. Know yourself, your values, and your purpose.
- See your problems as opportunities for learning and growth.
- Reclaim peace and joy even as you face challenges.
- Look for the good in others; it’s there somewhere, just waiting to be nurtured.
- Volunteer and give back to your community by helping others.
- Write down all you are grateful for.
- Practice kindness without any expectation of receiving something in return.
Remember, the purpose of eating is to fuel your healthy, balanced, fulfilling life.
