My Go-To Top 5 Pleasant Activities

As a follow-up to my pleasant activities post in early July, I thought I would share my own personal top 5 pleasant activities that I turn to when I'm feeling stressed or blue. 

Remember, there is a direct link between fun activities and mood. The more activities you participate in that are enjoyable, and make us feel excited, passionate or even just more alive, the better your mood. With every positive experience you have in your life, the more positive neural 'wiring' happens in our brains, which over time, affects neural plasticity (for the better). 

Consider the following to increase pleasant activities into your lifestyle:

1. Make a list of 50 - 100 pleasant activities.
2. Increase the amount of pleasant activities gradually.
3. Make a plan, one day at a time, of what you would like to do and then set out to make it happen.
4. Start small and simple at first and break activities down into small, achievable steps.
5. Don’t expect perfection. Avoid the perfection trap altogether and focus on fun and relaxation.
6. Be patient with yourself. You may not find activities as enjoyable as you did in the past, but this is because of the trauma. Your joy will come back to you, with time, persistence and patience.
7. Practice self-compassion. If you don't meet your goal one day, that’s okay. Don’t see it as a failure. Just pick yourself up and move forward. 

Once you experience success with pleasant activities you will find it easier and easier, and your self-confidence will grow. 

​What is on your top 5 list of pleasant activities?