Whether we want to be alone or we're feeling lonely, we all have hard days sometimes. Have you found healthy ways to cope? Here are a few of mine:

1. Go for a walk.

Field or forest, hill or vale, green space works wonders on a grumpy mood. Wander your neighborhood or a park nearby, either alone, with a pet or with a friend. Sometimes the slow rhythms of a walk help me process what I’m dealing with.

2. Take yourself out for coffee.

There’s nothing quite like a latte on a rainy Sunday afternoon, accompanied by soft music and the subtle sounds of conversation. While some of us might feel a little awkward taking ourselves out to dinner, there is absolutely no shame in spending an afternoon sipping a cappuccino while reading the paper or browsing the web. I find that solo coffee dates are a good way to be alone without getting lonely.

3. Find a local bookstore.

Make sure it has a sofa, and bingo - you have an escape. Whether you choose to dive into fantastical fiction or thrillingly but dense philosophy, there are whole worlds you can explore all by yourself.

4. Head to the gym.

I never thought I’d be the one to suggest this, but pair some pump-up music or some Netflix with an elliptical and I’ve not only found a distraction, but a healthy, productive one. Even if the rest of your life is out of control, you can choose your pace and set your stride.

5. Just lie still.

Whether you’re lying down with the window open and a light breeze blowing through or listening to raindrops pound on the roof, lying down and closing your eyes even for a minute or two can give your body a break from the stress of a day. And if you fall asleep, your body probably needed it.