Self-Care Ideas That Don’t Break the Bank
One lesson I had to learn the hard way was that you have to help yourself before you can help anyone else. Self-care is so important and the best part is that you don’t have to spend a dime to practice it. Below are suggestions on how to practice self-care when your funds are low.
1. Meditate
Meditation can take as little as 5 minutes and it can help your mental and emotional health. Not only is it free to practice but you can do it anywhere (as long as it is quiet). If you have small children that demand your attention at home, you can sit in your car during lunch or before/after work and meditate.
If you want to give it a try, find a quiet place. Sit in a comfortable, upright position. Set your timer for at least 5 minutes with a gentle tone and close your eyes. Close your mouth and breathe through your nose. Focus on your breathing; focus on the way the air enters your nose, and inflates your lungs. If a thought comes to mind, don’t try to ignore it. Instead accept that you had the thought and gently return your focus to your breathing.
2. Take a Bath
I’m a low key germaphobe so I never understood sitting in a tub with your sweat. However, I tried it once (after showering) and it was amazing. I have a love for candles so I lit one that I already had and just relaxed in the warm water. It helped relieve any tension I still had from the day and made me feel whole.
3. Read/Listen to a Book
It’s nice to check out from the world and check in to a great fiction novel. You can even use this time for self-improvement and read a self-help book or an inspiring biography. I commute 45 minutes one-way to work, so I like to listen to audiobooks on the drive using a free app from the public library.
4. Take a Social Media Break
I took a break from social media and it did wonders for me. I was able to turn my attention toward my passion project (this blog) and away from the irrelevant drama of old high school classmates that I haven’t seen in 10 years. It really helps you put into perspective what is important to you and not society as a whole.
5. Go For a Walk
Nature just does something to the soul. Lace up your shoes and walk around your neighborhood. If you want to really get out there, find a nature trail and go on a hike one weekend. Not only do you get away, but you also get some exercise in.
6. Dance
It’s so freeing to dance like no one’s watching. If you are like me, you can only do this in the comfort of your own home. But if you are more outgoing, go to a club and let loose!
7. Journal
It’s very therapeutic to write out your thoughts. At night, I write anything that is still on my mind that I want to get out before I go to sleep. During very hard times in my life, I write all my emotions out on paper. It helps me organize my thoughts and think through whatever the problem is to find a way to deal with it.
8. Schedule Needed Appointments
Depending on your age and medical conditions, you are supposed to go see your dentist/doctor after a certain period of time. If you are overdue for an appointment, schedule it. Yes, this one involves a copay but it will save you money in the long run.
9. Declutter Your Bedroom
Your bedroom should be the most peaceful part of your home. Take a moment and declutter it to so you can enjoy waking up in a clean room. If you have time, continue on and declutter another room or two.
10. Take a Nap
Last but not least, my favorite self-care technique, SLEEPING. Everyone wishes they can go back to kindergarten and doze off in the middle of the day. If you have 15-30 minutes of downtime, lay down and do just that. It’s good to re-energize.
These are just a couple of ideas on how to take care of yourself. Consider what puts a smile on your face and puts you in a more relaxed state. The most important thing is that your mood/health improves as a result.
