IntroductionTherapy sessions can be an exhausting experience. Sometimes an intense therapy session can really take its toll on us, both mentally and...
Therapy sessions can be an exhausting experience. Sometimes an intense therapy session can really take its toll on us, both mentally and physically. That's why it's important to practice self-care after a therapy session and in between sessions to help you recharge and maintain your mental well-being. Practicing effective self-care after therapy sessions is an important skill to develop. Here are some ideas for self-care activities that you can incorporate into your routine.
Assemble a box filled with items that engage all five senses, such as scented candles, textured fabrics, a playlist of favorite songs, flavorful snacks, and visually soothing images.
Use this box whenever you need grounding or comfort.
Write personalized, positive affirmations or mantras on index cards.
Keep them in a small notebook or jar, and read them to yourself during moments of stress or self-doubt.
Gather magazines, photos, and other visual materials to create a vision board that represents your goals and aspirations.
Place it somewhere you can see daily to keep you motivated and focused.
Designate a small space in your home as a retreat corner. Decorate it with calming colors, comfortable seating, plants, and objects that bring you peace.
Use this space for meditation, reading, or simply unwinding.
Instead of writing, use drawing, painting, or collages to express your thoughts and emotions.
This can be a therapeutic way to explore feelings without the constraints of words.
Choose recipes that require focus and attention.
The process of cooking can become a meditative activity, helping you stay present while creating something nourishing.
Schedule a regular day where you unplug from all digital devices.
Use this time to connect with nature, read physical books, or engage in hobbies that don't involve screens.
Create your own essential oil blends tailored to your current emotional needs.
Use these blends in diffusers, bath salts, or personal roll-ons to enhance your mood and well-being.
Take up a craft that you've never tried before, such as pottery, woodworking, or quilting.
The process of learning and creating something new can be incredibly fulfilling and distracting from daily stressors.
Curate several playlists specifically designed for different emotional states, such as relaxation, motivation, or sadness.
Use these playlists to help manage your mood as needed.
Find a local organization or cause you are passionate about and dedicate some time to volunteer work.
Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, easing your own struggles.
Once in a while, plan a solo retreat for yourself. This could be a weekend getaway to a nearby town or a camping trip.
Use this time to reflect, relax, and recharge away from your usual environment.
Enroll in workshops or online courses that focus on personal growth areas such as resilience, creativity, or emotional intelligence.
This can provide new tools and insights to support your therapeutic journey.
Whenever something good happens or you feel grateful, write it down on a slip of paper and place it in a jar.
When feeling low, read through the notes to remind yourself of positive experiences and feelings. Implementing some of these unique self-care practices into your post-therapy routine can enhance your therapeutic process and help manage therapy hangovers. Continue working on finding what works best for you. It could be a relaxing activity like mindful cooking or a grounding practice like using a sensory box. You can support your nervous system and maintain the benefits of your therapy sessions.
Taking care of yourself between therapy sessions is crucial for maintaining progress and managing any lingering effects of an intense session or a difficult therapy session. Whether you're dealing with childhood trauma or simply feeling the aftermath of a tough session, these self-care ideas can help you stay grounded and focused on the present moment. Creating a sensory box, practicing deep breathing, and setting up a calm corner in your therapy room are all excellent ways to find comfort and peace. Spending a few moments each day engaging in these activities can make a significant difference as you prepare for your next session at your therapist's office. If you are seeking therapy in Colorado, Overcomers Counseling is here for you. Learn more about our therapy for grief in Colorado Springs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.
Prioritize your tasks by importance and deadline, break large projects into smaller steps, and create a realistic daily schedule that includes time for self-care and relaxation. Don't be afraid to delegate tasks or ask for help when needed.
Anyone who wants to improve their mental health and overall well-being can benefit from mental health life coaching.
It is particularly helpful for individuals experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties.
It's important to find someone who has the relevant experience and qualifications, as well as someone with whom you feel comfortable working. Do some research into different programs and coaches before committing to one.
Healthy techniques can help you feel more in control of your emotions and present situation, which can help because stress and anxiety are often caused by a person feeling like they have no control over their feelings, situation, or outcomes.
A typical course consists of modules or lessons that cover topics such as goal setting, decision-making skills, problem-solving techniques, communication strategies, stress management techniques, mindfulness practices, etc. Each module will also offer assignments or exercises designed to help you move closer to achieving your goals.
Some examples of self-soothing strategies that are not healthy include binge-watching TV, emotional eating, drinking alcohol, compulsive gambling, obsessive game-playing, and constant internet surfing.
