If you’ve lost motivation to work, are feeling less productive, or find yourself worrying, feeling anxious, and stressed— you might need to take a mental health day.

Just like taking 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 your batteries in Austin.

Get some fresh air

Take advantage of the weather and go for a walk around the neighborhood, along Lady Bird Lake, or at Zilker Park. Fully immerse yourself in nature for a hike at the Mayfield Nature Preserve or one of the many other trails in the area.

Not looking to do something active? Grab a book or some close friends and sit outside at one of the local parks. Get some food and have a picnic. We love grabbing takeout and heading to Mueller Lake Park.

Do something creative

Find something that inspires you or something you haven’t done before to experience creative freedom. Check out some of the writing workshops at Austin Bat Cave, sign up for a painting or pottery class at Cordovan Art School, or get a free intro to improv at The Hideout Theatre.

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 time during your mental health day. If you’re looking to really break a sweat, try out at class at LOVE Cycling Studio. Yoga is also a great option — Practice Yoga Austin offers several kinds of classes.

Do self-care your way

If anyone knows what you need to recharge your battery, it’s yourself, so take the day to do whatever it is that brings you joy.

Editor London likes to take a walk along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail with her dog, Baxter, and look through books at the Central Library.

Editor Figi feels recharged after a trip to Austin Creative Reuse, a homemade London Fog latte, and day of roller skating at Veloway Park.

Looking for additional information or resources about mental health? Click here.