Self-Care Doesn’t Have To Break the Bank

We often have the wrong idea about self-care. We think we have to earn it and that it has to be expensive. We feel like it’s an unnecessary splurge to do something good for ourselves. It can seem extravagant yet frivolous. Women often feel like they have to "justify" taking care of themselves. It's time to change that mindset. Self-care is fitting, reasonable and appropriate.  Plus, it benefits everyone when we put our own well-being at the forefront. Just like you need to put your oxygen mask on first in the event of an emergency on a plan, you can’t take care of others when your own well-being is suffering. Let’s take a look at some free and low-cost ways you can care for yourself. 

Take a Time Out

When we're stressed it might feel like we need at least a week's vacation. In reality, often just a little bit of alone time is all we need to feel rejuvenated. Why not give yourself a time out? Lock yourself in your room with a nice cup of tea and a scone. Listen to some quiet music. Sit still and meditate for a bit. It’s a luxury we all can afford.

Waste Some Time

We often feel pressured to be productive all the time. Being busy has become a sign of worth and accomplishment. It  doesn’t really have to be that way. Kicking back and doing nothing is important for recharging our batteries. Let yourself have some down time to do something frivolous like binge on your favorite Netflix show, take a nap or just sit and pet your cat. Let your mind wander. Do some daydreaming. Who knows what brilliant ideas might come to mind when there's no pressure!

Do Some Writing

Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, journaling can be a very therapeutic activity. Jotting down what you’re grateful for has been proven to be beneficial to well-being. It can also be energizing to simply do a brain dump in which you write down all the things that are floating around in your head. Jotting down dreams for the future can inspire and motivate you to take action. It's worth giving it a try. 

Reach Out to Someone

Socializing and having a community is a crucial part of self-care. Even introverts benefit from interpersonal connection. Humans aren’t meant to be isolated. Pick up the phone and call a friend you haven’t talked to in a while. Sit down and Facetime with your favorite pal. Put on a mask and meet up with a friend for a walk together outside. Connecting to others might just provide the spark you’ve been missing and it does wonders for lowering anxiety. 

Change Your Perspective

A change of scenery can be a wonderful source of renewal, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot.  Head out for a walk in your neighborhood, especially if you’re feeling stir-crazy in your home. Going for a drive down roads you've never been before can switch things up. You could also see if a low-key resort near you has opened up. Some places have put safety measures into place and are accepting limited reservations. You’ll be surprised what this change of perspective can do for you and you'll help them out, too. 

While these are just a few of the countless ways you can indulge in self-care without spending a lot money, perhaps they’re a jumpstart for beginning to explore this concept. You truly deserve to spend time, energy and effort on your own well-being. 

Sparkles and Love,