Money may be tight and you might not be able to find flex in your budget to add a lot of new things to your life. But that doesn’t mean you should neglect yourself. Believe it or not, self-care doesn’t need to cost a thing. There are plenty of things you can do without spending a dime or by taking advantage of the things you have already purchased.
Take a Nap
Who doesn’t enjoy a good nap? Napping doesn’t cost you anything but time. A 20-30 minute power nap can do wonders for your mood and your life. Most people always have a few minutes to spare for a power nap if they realize how important it may be to their health.
Get Some Exercise
Go for a jog or a nice walk and enjoy nature. You can even go window shopping to change it up a bit. You don’t need to buy anything to enjoy it. The exercise and fresh air are what is important.
Go Outside
Sit outside on your porch or balcony and read a book or meditate. Breathe in the fresh air or enjoy the sound of rain. Nature is essential to your health. Take off your shoes and walk barefoot in the grass whenever you can.
Warm Compress – Soak a wash cloth in warm water (not more than 120F). Wring it out, then lay down on the couch and place the cloth over your face. Feel the warmth and relax for a few minutes until the cloth is cool.
Take a Spa Day
Look around your cabinets and you’ll likely find plenty of ingredients to make into a face mask. Coconut oil, olive oil, avocado, honey, banana, oatmeal, and cucumbers are all great items to use. If you can’t spare too many items just add some olive oil to brown sugar and use that as a face and lip scrub.
Take A Bath
Teressa’s note: this is my personal favorite! Before you get into the bath put your pajamas in the dryer. In the bath, take the time to breathe in the smell of your bubble bath/bath oil/bath bomb and just relax. Then once you are done you can slip into your warm and cozy pajamas.
Talk to Someone
Self-care doesn’t have to be lonely. Call some friends or talk to your spouse about work and life. Maybe they need some ideas for their own self-care routine too. Share tips and tricks.
Journal
If you don’t have a journal you can use your computer or laptop instead. You can also print out paper journals from templates online. Write about your day or how you have been feeling. Take out this time to find out more things you would like to do to for yourself. If you find yourself feeling negative, try keeping a gratitude journal.
Watch Netflix
Catch up on a TV series you’ve been dying to watch or put on a good scary movie. Nothing wrong with a good binge when you need a break or “hooky” day.
Dance
Turn on the radio or your favorite streaming service and get moving! Dancing is exciting and it is also great exercise. You’ll get the benefits of exercise endorphins as well as boost your energy.
Play a Game
Pull out that old board game of Monopoly and play with your family. Invite some friends over to play Pictionary or download a free game on your phone. Nothing is more fun than laughing with friends.
The list is truly endless and all up to you. Get creative and use your environment and things around you. What types of things can you add to this list that will add self-care, fun, and energy to your life?
Have you joined my new Facebook Group? It’s absolutely free and it’s a great place to meet other women over 45, and learn more about self-care and finding your joy. Here’s the link:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/WomenFindJoy/
