If you are a woman, then you know that life can be a whirlwind. Juggling family, work and social obligations can often leave you feeling like you’re running on empty. What’s worse is that during the chaos, it’s very easy to forget to slow down, breathe and connect with yourself. Thankfully, regardless of who you are or what you do, you deserve moments of tranquility, and you can achieve that by doing these simple activities often.

1- Read a Book

Reading offers a unique gateway to imagination and knowledge. Whether it’s a fantasy novel, a self-help guide, or a non-fiction, adventure paperback, each page can become a stepping stone into an exciting, uncharted world. Create a cozy reading nook, prepare your favorite drink, and let the pages take you on a journey of discovery. If you’re not already used to reading, you may realize how therapeutic the simple act of flipping pages can be, and how much information you can gain from a single book.

2- Go for a Hike

Connect with nature, combat anxiety, make new friends and create unforgettable experiences on the trail by hiking alone. Actually, solo hiking allows you to set your own pace, make decisions based solely on your preferences, and create the experience you want to have. It also gives you the chance to discover and conquer your perceived physical and mental limits, which can help you build confidence and understand yourself on a deeper level. Just ensure you research your hiking trails ahead of time to avoid any surprises.

3- Create a Gratitude Journal

Did you know that grateful people tend to have better heart health and lower levels of depression? At the end of each day, give yourself a moment to pen down five things you’re grateful for. You can write about things that happened to you during the day or recently, or about people you appreciate. Also, don’t forget to describe how grateful you are for yourself, putting your abilities or good deeds into consideration. Just remember that the more detailed you are, the easier it will be for you to connect with the emotion.

4- Go Fishing

If you’ve been looking for a way to step away from the noise that constantly surrounds you, a solo fishing trip may be what you need. Besides helping you to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors, this activity can allow you to become more mindful and think more clearly. Just remember that venturing out on a solo fishing trip isn’t always easy, but with the right research, fishing equipment, first aid kit, sunscreen, and a pair of polarized glasses, the activity can be a breeze.

5- Meditate

Meditation is one of the best ways to get a sense of peace, calm, and balance, especially if you’re often feeling worried and tense. There are different ways to meditate, and the most effective ones include mindfulness meditation, mantra meditation, and transcendental meditation. If you want to perform mindfulness meditation, for instance, all you need is to find a quiet area in your home, make yourself comfortable, and focus your attention on something, such as your breathing. The intentional focus on your breath promotes mental clarity and relaxation, due to its ability to slow down the heart rate.

As a woman, chances are you go through a lot each day, so self-care should be a necessity. These solo activities are your passport to renewed energy, more self-awareness, confidence, and relaxation, so embrace them to make every moment of your life a reminder of your worth.