1. Go for a Long Walk

One of the best activities for a mental health day that you can choose is to go for a long walk. This clears your mind like little else. It is a way to escape whatever is going on in your life and focus on yourself for a while. An added bonus is that you get some exercise even if you are going at a leisurely stroll. You will return feeling calm and peaceful.

2. Visit Some Friends

Visiting friends is always good for the soul. It is a great choice for a mental health day. It truly is something that helps you feel better. You can hash out anything that is bothering you with a good friend and get some possible solutions from them. Time with friends is wonderfully revitalizing.

3. Get a Massage

Getting a massage is something that makes you feel better physically and mentally. If you can, spring for the whole spa experience. There is a reason that women regularly frequent spas. They make you feel like a brand new person. You feel like you can get back out there and tackle life after a massage or a day at the spa.

4. Experience Nature

Nature is great medicine when you are stressed. Whether you are hiking in the mountains or sunbathing while listening to the waves crash, both are particularly great for your mental health. I personally feel like all is well in my world when I can sit and watch the waves come in or just close my eyes and listen to them. There are many ways you can experience nature. Even having a simple picnic is a great way to get some time in the outdoors.

5. Shop Till You Drop

There is a reason it is called retail therapy. Shopping really is good therapy. While it is important not to buy things that you can’t afford, there is no harm in purchasing some things that you can. It makes you feel better and takes your mind off of your stress. When you leave the mall, you have all kinds of new purchases to lift your spirits.

6. Read a Book

Sometimes you don’t even want to leave home when you take a mental health day and that is okay. You know what you need. On those days, lose yourself in a good book. Travel to a world that isn’t real and forget all of the stress that is pushing against you. If you love to read, chances are there is no way that you would rather spend the day.

7. Catch up on Your Zzzs

Sometimes, when you take a mental health day, you are mentally exhausted. What you need most of all is rest. Use your day to catch up on the sleep you have missed. Sleep is important to your overall health. When you don’t get the amount of sleep you need, you cannot be at your best mentally, physically or any other way.

These are some ideas of how to use a mental health day to truly benefit you. What would you love to do on a mental health day? I look forward to reading your responses.