Day 8

Discover Voluntourism. That’s no typo — it’s the newest trend in vacationing. More and more people are opting to “give back” on their vacation time, choosing trips with a charitable or humanitarian pur- pose. Options include building houses or schools, working at an orphanage or refugee camp or partici- pating in an archeological dig, to name a few. It’s not always “roughing it” either.
A company called Ambassadors for Children even offers a trip that includes a stay at a four-star hotel in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, where three days of an eight- day trip are spent visiting an orphanage, library and preschool, giving participants a chance to combine purpose with pleasure.

Day 7

Write down your good qualities and re-read the list. It will remind you that there are many positives in your life.

Day 6

Go online to CharityNavigator.com to see all the ways you can give back. Helping those less fortunate is a feel-good activity.

Day 5

Check out the comics section in your local news- paper or go online and find a joke Web site. A good laugh can be very healing.

Day 4

If you have a pet, seek him out for a play session or a luxurious brushing. Animals have a calming effect on people.

Day 3

Change the subject. When you’re fuming about something, immerse yourself in a separate, unrelated activity. You’d be surprised at how easily you can calm down.

Day 2

Take time out to do some exercise, even if it’s only for 10 minutes. Remember, this is exercise to help your mind at the moment, so even 10 minutes can make a big difference.