How to self care without spending a lot of money.
It’s no secret that self care is important! If our physical, mental and emotional needs aren’t being met, then we won’t be able to feel or perform our best in all of the many responsibilities in our lives. Often times we might feel like the only way to self care is to spend a lot of money….you know, more of a treat-yo-self mentality. But, I’m here to remind you that you do not have to spend any money at all to take care of your needs! Below are some free self care ideas to help you feel more renewed and content.
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Cheap Ways To Self Care
You do not need to go out and buy all of the newest and greatest objects in order to self care. You can self care for cheap using the ideas below.
1. Take A Bath
One of my favorite ways to self care for free is to take a nice, long, hot bath (emphasis on hot). There is just nothing better than soaking all of your worries and stresses away from the comfort of your own bathtub.
If you want to splurge a little, buy some inexpensive bubble bath or a bath salts.
2. Go For A Walk
Fresh air and exercise are both so important for our mental health. If you are feeling down, make sure to take some time out of your day to go outside and walk. Even if it’s just a short walk down the road, it will do you good!
3. Take A Break From Social Media
I love social media and think it’s a great way to connect with others….I mean my entire business started from instagram! But! I also know that social media can begin to affect our mental health in a negative way if used excessively.
If you are ever feeling low mentally or emotionally, I recommend taking a break from social media. The break could be anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks. I always feel awesome after taking these breaks! It’s the best time to focus on being present with my surroundings.
4. Have A Dance Party To Your Favorite Music
A good old fashioned dance party is one of the best ways to boost our mood. So, crank up your favorite music and move your body! You don’t even need to be in a group, some of the best dance parties can happen all by yourself in your home or car!
- Related: How To Listen To Audiobooks For Free
5. Declutter Something
I know that cleaning and decluttering are not the first things that come to mind when thinking of free self-care ideas. However, tidying a space in your home can truly help clear your mind.
6. Read A Book
There just isn’t anything better than getting lost in a good book (where are my fellow book nerds at?!?!). Take some time to relax with one of your favorite books, or try a new one. Let your worries drift away as you focus on the story. Don’t forget that you can check out books for free at your public library!
Some of my favorite books are: The Orphan Keeper, Pride and Prejudice, The Secret Keeper, Before We Were Yours, Listening For Lions, and Little Women.
7. Keep A Journal
Have you ever tried journaling? It can be a very therapeutic way to release stress and worries. Start a journal and write about all of your fun memories, your favorite activities, things you are looking forward to, your feelings about the day, goals for the future, etc.
There are so many ways to keep a journal. You can start one online, use your Notes App from your phone, or buy a pretty journal to write in.
8. Take A Nap
Sometimes all our body needs is some extra rest to feel ready to tackle the day. Give yourself an hour or two of peace and quiet and take a power nap. It’s ok if you don’t even fall asleep, laying and resting in a quiet place is often enough to give us the self care we need.
9. Watch The Sunset
Take a drive or walk to a place where you can watch the sunset. Enjoy being in nature and set your worries aside for a few minutes.
10. Try A New Workout
Get your endorphins up with an at home workout. I’ll be the first to admit that it’s hard for me to make time for working out, but whenever I do, I feel so much better mentally! There are so many free workouts you can find on YouTube. I love Grow With Jo, Yoga With Adrienne, and Pop Sugar Fitness.
11. Meditate
I’ll be the first to admit that I use to not like the idea of meditation. But, that was before I actually understood it. Now, I love resting my eyes and mind for 10-20 minutes of meditation. It can make a huge difference in my mood for the day. You can find free meditation exercises on youtube that will guide you through the process.
12. Drink A Large Glass of Water
Self care also includes taking care of our bodies, and drinking enough water is one of the best things we can do for our bodies. When we drink plenty of water we will have much more energy and feel better for the rest of the day. If you are feeling down, pour yourself a large glass of water and take care of your body!
13. Watch Your Favorite Movie
One of my favorite free self care ideas is to watch your favorite movie or tv show. There is nothing better than snuggling up on the couch, or in your bed, and let your mind turn off as you enjoy some on screen entertainment.
- Related: Cheap At Home Date Night Ideas
14. Call A Friend
Don’t forget to make time for your relationships, it does wonder for our mood. I love calling up my sister and discussing the things that are on my mind, letting her ease my worries and listening to her advice. It’s a vital form of self care!
15. Pick Wildflowers
Bring nature indoors with some beautiful wildflowers! Maybe you have flowers in your yard, or can pick some from the side of the road. Either way, try to pick a big bouquet of flowers to bring inside. Put them in a vase or a jar and place them somewhere you can see them regularly. There is just something about nature that renews my soul!
16. Invite Friends Over
Give yourself some self care by inviting over a few close friends. You could host a game night, clothing swap, movie night, BBQ, book club, or just get together to chat and munch on some snacks! Taking the time out of our day to spend quality time with others is really good for our mental health.
17. Give Yourself An At Home Mani or Pedi
Give your hands and feet a nice soak and then paint your nails with a fresh new color. We love using this UV light nail dryer for fresh gel nails!
18. Light A Candle
Candles are such a great way to change the mood of your living space. I instantly feel happier when I smell the crisp pumpkin spice scent from my candle and can watch the beautiful light of the candle flicker in the dark. This is such an easy, but wonderful way to self care!
19. Get Dressed Up
There is just something about looking our best, that makes us feel our best! So, take an hour or so to dress in the clothes that make you feel amazing, fix your hair, and give yourself some glam makeup. Even if you are just running errands or sitting around at home, you will feel amazing!
Self Care On A Budget Is Possible
You can give yourself the self care and treatment you deserve, without spending a lot of money. I hope you try a few of these ideas today. And, don’t forget that you are loved, you are important and you matter! Tell yourself that 3 times every day!
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