What do you do to comfort yourself when you are down, anxious, etc?

I've been reading about the importance of self-compassion, which differs somewhat from self-esteem. Just wondering what others do to soothe and comfort themselves. I've been putting my hands over my heart and saying comforting phrases to myself like "you are doing your best ... I am here for you ... I will take care of you". It helps.

Anyone else have something they do?

Usually, just changing my environment helps...and positive self-talk is beneficial!

I have a list of things in my life that are good. I wasn't sure if it would help but by repeating it to myself I calm down.

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I literally "take over" for the "poor me" portion, talk to her like a friend and promise to help her or tell her to take a break, relax, etc. depending on the situation. My line is "it's okay".

I go outside, outdoors, fresh air really helps calm my nervous system.

Thanks everyone - some great thoughts from all of you. These forums have some great people!

I like to sing or recite the lyrics of the Beatles' Let It Be.

I snuggle with my cat. She always loves me.

When having a hard time I try to refocus on what I can do, and stop beating myself up.
To distract / refocus I paint.
Or throw cat treats and laugh as she chases them down the hall and pounces on them.

I fight off the orc hordes.

Um ... blue means you're being sarcastic. Was that intention?

I write in my journal. Google my problems to know that someone else feels the same way. And realize there's 7 billion people on this planet and I can't be the worst off.

I also have an alias to use so that nobody from my past will find me. I practice saying my alias so that it sounds believable if it ever comes down to it. I don't know why but knowing I can remain anonymous irl makes me feel better lol.

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I go to my bedroom, lock the world & all of the stressors out, get very still & quiet, maybe listen to some calming music, close my eyes, & remind myself that it's Only anxiety; I'm Not dying, all I have to do is calm down & this will all be over with. I make a conscious effort to control my breathing & to slow my heart rate.

Positive self talk doesn't really work for me unless I'm in the right mood, so I just do something to distract myself, like watch movies that interest me or read a book, etc. Sometimes that isn't enough so I go on a walk by myself. It calms me, usually. Or I write down my thoughts.

I like putting on body lotion that reminds me of my grandmother. It's rose-scented, and in general I don't like it and wouldn't use it (too strong). However, when I'm anxious and/or down, it really soothes me because it reminds me of my gran (who passed away 10 years ago).

Lulu, how about making a simple design, since you do jewelry? The focus on the design will quell anxiety.

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I put on the tv and find my favorite tv show. Watching tv really calms me down, or I go online to find someone to talk to at that moment. It really distracts my mind. For me distraction is what does it, its the only way to lift my spirits.

I go to Zumba Fitness class two times per week. As far as self soothing in a difficult moment, that is hard for me. I get stressed just doing housework. Still working on the self care, and self soothing. Trying. Trying daily.