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These days, self-care is more important than ever. Unfortunately, the concept has also become a buzzword to sell bubble bath and comfy socks. While there’s nothing wrong with indulging in your favorite treats, self-care doesn’t have to cost money. Here are a few ideas to inspire you!
Wait, isn’t this supposed to be a list of self-care ideas? Making your bed is self-care. It signals that the day has started and provides a clean, orderly retreat when you’re done.
Most of us are at least mildly dehydrated all the time. Drinking enough water during the day doesn’t have to involve an app or a “smart” bottle. Just make an effort to keep a glass nearby and take a sip when you feel thirsty.
Taking a walk outdoors offers many benefits. The exercise is good for you, and so is sunlight and fresh air. But grounding yourself in nature can also have a calming effect. In Japan, going for a walk in the woods is called shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing.” Leave your headphones behind and simply open your senses to the world.
It sounds cheesy, but practicing gratitude can actually make you feel more grateful. A simple gratitude journal–in an inexpensive notebook or even typed on your phone–will help you find the good in even the worst days.
Deep breathing exercises are a great way to ground yourself during stressful times. Focusing on your breath can help eliminate stress, and the extra oxygen will give you more energy to face the day’s struggles. There are tons of different ways to practice this simple act of self-care, but you can’t go wrong with a simple 5-count inhale-hold-exhale pattern.
We’d never suggest you completely ditch your phone, tablet, or computer. For one thing, how else would we get to hang out? But setting aside blocks of time that are strictly no-screen zones can help balance your energy during the day. It’s a good idea to go screen-free for the first hour after you wake up and the last hour before bed.
Okay, this one technically costs about a dime. A relaxing cup of decaf green tea or herbal tea (which is technically called a “tisane”) is much less expensive than a daily coffee shop fix. Turn the preparation of the tea into a mini ritual each morning or evening, and enjoy your beverage in peaceful silence.
