15 Of the Best Self Esteem Building Exercises
Low self esteem is an all too common barrier to living a happy and meaningful life. Psychology Today goes so far as to state that positive self esteem is critical to mental health. The good news is that high self esteem is a learnable skill. Just as you can strengthen muscles with the help of a great workout plan, you can also grow your sense of self-worth through self esteem building exercises. We’ve compiled a list of our favorites to help you on your journey.
- Eat Well
Nutrition plays an essential role in both physical and mental health. When you make healthy food choices, the sense of physical wellbeing feeds into mental wellbeing. A nutritious diet boosts mood and helps you to feel better about yourself. Great tips can be found here on the Cody Blog in the Nourish archives.
- Exercise
Seeing that you’re visiting the Cody blog, you already understand the value of exercise! Just as food choices affect the entire health spectrum, exercise makes you feel strong inside and out. Physical workouts boost energy and create a sense of achievement. Strong bodies make us feel good about ourselves, and there’s no denying the uplifting rush of endorphins!
- Keep a Gratitude Journal
First thing in the morning or just before bed at night, write down three things you are grateful for. Gratitude cultivates a positive outlook.
- Attend to Hygiene and Grooming
A new hairstyle can do wonders for self esteem. Or, treat yourself to a pedicure now and then. Even a simple, refreshing shower can reset your mood and sense of self-worth. If you’re craving something more luxurious, enoy a relaxing bath followed by your favorite lotion. As you apply the lotion, take time to appreciate each part of your body.
- Dress Up
Don’t save your favorite outfit for special occasions only. Remember – dress for success! You’ll feel better about yourself, and probably receive compliments from others as well.
- Stand Up Tall
Mom was right – stand up tall! Good posture radiates confidence, while slouching and looking down are associated with depression and insecurity. You can learn to improve your posture by checking out 5 Yoga Poses for Better Posture.
- Smile
Smile! It’ll make you feel better, and send a ray of sunshine to everyone you meet.
- Make Eye Contact
Connection with others is essential, but can be limited when we struggle with self esteem. Through making eye contact, you’ll feel like part of the world around you. And just as with standing straight, eye contact conveys confidence. People will treat you accordingly.
- Create a Compliments Journal
What do you like about yourself? This is one of those self esteem building exercises that can be challenging at the beginning. Write down anything you can think of in a journal, no matter how trivial it may seem. If you have trouble getting started, ask a close friend what they love about you. Remember compliments you’ve received in the past, and don’t be shy! Anytime you’re feeling down about yourself, go back to your journal for a reminder of all you have to offer the world.
- Set Achievable Goals
Imagine that last January you made a resolution to run a marathon by the end of the year, but never managed to reach your goal. You might find yourself feeling a sense of failure, despite all the incredible work you put in and your great time in a local 5K race. Instead, try setting more accessible goals. If your aim is to run one mile three times a week, the same scenario will leave you with a sense of achievement.
- Write Affirmations
What do you need to hear about yourself on a regular basis? Create an affirmation and repeat it to yourself throughout the day. For example, tell yourself “I am beautiful and loved,” or “I can handle this!” Leaving affirmation post-it notes around your house is a great way to give yourself gentle reminders.
- Learn Something New
You’re learning new self esteem building exercises right now – that’s a great start! What else interests you? Maybe you’ve been wanting to try photography, or study a new language. The sky’s the limit! Exploring your interests by learning something new is a fun way to build confidence and self esteem.
- Practice Self-Compassion
Consider what you would say to a friend who is experiencing what you are feeling. What sentiments would be helpful? Try expressing those same caring words to yourself.
- Take a Yoga Class
Yoga encourages us to stay present even when we feel uncomfortable. An experienced yoga teacher will guide you in listening to and honoring your body. According to the American Psychological Association, yoga strengthens social attachments, reduces stress, and eases anxiety and depression.
- Meditate
Meditation teaches us to meet ourselves where we are. By meditating, you learn to embrace yourself in all your incredible complexity, inviting acceptance and compassion. Meditation provides an awakening to interconnectedness and community. Aubry Marie’s From Fear to Love Meditations series is an accessible starting point.
The path to positive self esteem isn’t always easy, but it’s a valuable endeavor. We’ve listed some of the best self esteem exercises around; try them out, and stick with the ones that resonate with you. You’re worth it!