We all deserve to take a day to ourselves every once in a while. If you’re feeling less productive, anxious, and stressed-out, you might need to take a mental health day.

Just like a sick day when our bodies are under the weather, taking a mental health day allows for a day of rest for our mental well-being.

Here are some ways you can recharge and reset in San Diego.

Get some fresh air

Take advantage of the weather and go for a walk. We recommend a stroll along the water at Mission Bay Park or around the San Diego National Wildlife Refuge. Fully immerse yourself in nature with a hike or enjoy one of the many lakes or beaches in the area.

Looking for something less strenuous? Grab a book or some close friends and sit outside at one of the local parks. Alternatively, pick up some food and have a picnic — we love grabbing takeout and enjoying it on a blanket at Old Town Plaza.

Do something creative

Find something that inspires you or something you haven’t done before to experience creative freedom. Check out craft classes at the San Diego Craft Collective, sign up for a writing or poetry workshop at San Diego Writers, Ink, or take a pottery class at Ceramic Heights.

Get in a workout

It can be difficult to fit in active time during the work week, so taking some time to get your body moving can be a great way to utilize your mental health day. If you’re looking to really break a sweat, try out a kickboxing class at The Arena. Yoga is also a relaxing option — find free virtual classes through Yoga in the City.

Looking for additional information or resources about mental health?The county has a list of local resources for counseling, support groups, and a crisis response team.