These days many of us are burned out caring for others often sandwiched between aging parents and our kids. That’s why prioritizing self-care is essential, but it doesn’t have to break the bank.
There are plenty of thrifty ways to indulge in self-care and treat yourself without overspending. Psst…you may want to also read our blog, 9 Thrifty Tips and Gift Ideas to Survive the Holidays on a Budget
Below, we’ve got six budget-friendly self-care tips:
1. DIY Spa Day…Solo or With Friends
Pamper yourself with a DIY spa day at home. You can do this alone or with friends to make it more festive and fun. Raid your kitchen cabinets for natural ingredients like oatmeal, honey and yogurt to create face masks. Salt and sugar mixed with warm water can make a great natural exfoliator for face and feet. Soak in a relaxing bubble bath with Epsom salt which gives your body a good dose of magnesium (always check with your doctor before taking an Epsom salt bath if you have heart issues). Finish off with a manicure or pedicure using your favorite nail polish shades.
Guaranteed Acceptance Life Insurance
Coverage options starting at $9.95 a month!
Guaranteed acceptance life insurance without medical exams, health questions, or rate increases.
2. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation
Stress takes its toll on our bodies. Take some time to quiet your mind and practice mindfulness meditation. Find a comfortable spot, close your eyes and focus on your breath. Allow yourself to be present in the moment, letting go of worries and stress. There are plenty of free guided meditation apps and videos available online to help you relax and unwind.
3. Pick Up a Book and Read
So many of us are focused on our phones, devices and computers reading has become less of a priority. Rediscover the joy of reading by curling up with a good book. Visit your local library to borrow books for free or explore e-books and audiobooks available through online platforms. Whether you’re into fiction, memoirs or self-help books, getting lost in a story is a great way to escape reality and nourish your mind.
4. Explore Creative Outlets
Life is so busy, when was the last time you did something creative just for you? Pick up a coloring book and pencils at the dollar store or if you have paints or other supplies but haven’t used them in a while dust them off! Doing creative activities can be therapeutic and fulfilling and you can get lost in the process which is a form of self-care.
5. Enjoy Simple Pleasures
Treat yourself to life’s simple pleasures without splurging. Indulge in a decadent piece of dark chocolate, savor a cup of aromatic tea, or indulge in an afternoon nap. Sometimes, it’s the little things that bring us the greatest joy but we don’t take the time to notice.
6. Look at or Get Out in Nature
Many of us open our shades every morning and get going without noticing the birds or grass or trees. Take some time to just chill out and take in the sounds of the outside. Whether you live in the city or a farm, notice the small things. Leaves, birds, even squirrels going about their day. It helps to decompress and can be calming. If you have a park or green area nearby, take a walk and enjoy being in nature. Better yet, if you have woods or a forest nearby you can indulge in something called “forest bathing” which is absorbing the forest atmosphere and is something the Japanese swear by.
Want more? Check out our blog, 5 Surprising Reasons to Take Your Vacation Days and 3 Low-Cost Ways to Do It
Colonial Penn is here for you!
Colonial Penn has specialized in making life insurance simple and accessible by offering it directly to consumers since 1957. Click here to learn more.
