Today I want to talk about SELF CARE. What the heck is it and why do we need it? And more importantly, why is it so dang expensive? Is it possible to have self care without spending money?
Real talk – when I was younger, I thought self care was only for rich people who could afford Mediterranean cruises and private masseuses. But after 12 months of working crazy hours from my home office during the COVID-19 pandemic, I started to feel a *little* bit burned out. (and by a little bit, I mean a whole heap of a lot) So I started experimenting with things that made me feel better – (home) pedicures, long walks on the trails, journaling, etc. And began to realize self care is IMPORTANT! And self care without spending money is POSSIBLE.
Why should we care about self care?
As I write this, we’re in the middle of a pandemic that seemed to come out of nowhere. Anxiety about our finances, our families and our friends is normal. But at the end of the day, we can’t serve our purpose on this earth unless we’re healthy – and that includes our mental health. If you’re feeling worn down, or disinterested in your daily activities, it’s probably time for a break. I’d wager that if you’re a HUMAN right now, you probably need a break.
If your best friend complained to you that she was feeling worn out at work, would your advice be to double-down and work harder? Absolutely not! You would tell her to run a hot bath or offer to watch her kids while she naps. Treat yourself like you treat others. TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF IS NOT WEAKNESS. It’s essential so you can reach your potential.
Sometimes we have flexibility in our budget for extra self care, and sometimes we don’t. Everyone’s needs are different, but I compiled a few ideas for FREE self care for you to try out if you want! Self care without spending money? Major bonus!
1. Develop a bedtime routine.
Sounds lame, huh? But trust me, when your body begins to identify those triggers each night, it’s so much easier to slip into snoozeland. Meditation, stretching, turning down the lights, reading, etc. No matter what it is, put the phone away.
2. Write a daily gratitude list.
I started incorporating this practice into my morning routine and find it gives me perspective and keeps me positive, because even when things are stressful or hard, I can always think back to the list I jotted out that morning and remind myself that there are other things that matter more in my life. Even when things aren’t perfect, we truly do lead abundant lives. It’s so very grounding to have a notebook full of things that make your life whole and bring you joy.
3. Move.
Doesn’t matter if this is a stroll around the backyard or a 6-mile jog or a sweaty HIIT session. Incorporating some type of movement in your day goes a long way to creating balance and fulfillment. Like Elle Woods says, “Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people don’t shoot their husbands.” So wise.
4. Get the heck outside.
Even when it’s hot. Even when it’s cold. Getting outside in nature is so good for a tired soul. Take a minute to be consciously present while outside. Listen to the birds and the breeze through the trees. Breathe deeply. Better, huh?
5. Find some great content.
Blogs, podcasts and books are all your friend. Bonus points if the topic is unrelated to work or personal development. Sometimes we all just need a break from growth and want something entertaining! There’s something about immersing yourself in another world that can help you feel reenergized.
If you’re adamant you must only binge educational content, might I suggest my favorite personal finance books and podcasts? Education AND entertainment in one package.
6. Breathe.
A great friend taught me this breathing exercise a while ago, and I find myself using it weekly. Breathe in for 5 counts, hold for 5 counts, then breathe out for 5 counts. Repeat this 3 times. Or, find a different combination of counts that works best for you. This is what I turn to when I find myself getting nervous or stressed. Game changer.
7. Manage your environment.
Ok, so not the sexiest thing on this list, but I took on a minimalism challenge recently and I learned that our environments DO affect our mental health. A more organized, clutter-less area may help you feel like you’re getting some control back. 12/10 highly recommend.
In Conclusion
OK, so I said this list would contain only free things. And it does – I just have one small addition down here in tiny print. There are cases where a little splurge goes a long way in improving your day-to-day life.
An example for me is candles. I cannot replace the feeling I have when my house is clean and my candles are burning. (I love these candles.) It smells so good and makes me feel so happy. Candles are a small thing, but can add up in the long run so I’m conscious about how much I’m spending and I reward myself once a month or once every six weeks with a new candle. The tradeoff is so worth it for me. It’s still self care on a budget!
Do you have a small splurge that makes a huge difference for you? Or do you adhere strictly to the free self care route?
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Great info ! We all need this!
Great Blog! I loved reading this!!!
M. Stone