8 Free Ways To Do Self Care
Self-care is super popular these days, and it’s not really a surprise. With more awareness spreading about the importance of mental health and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, many people are starting to realize they need to take more care of themselves. This is great because it is extremely crucial to take the extra time to sit down and relax. The fact that more and more people are realizing the importance of self-care shows how far we’ve come with mental health awareness. But of course, there are still plenty of problems of course with self-care these days.
One such problem is how many people perceive self-care. Thanks to brands trying to capitalize on the self-care trend, many people have come to believe that self-care simply means splurging on overpriced face masks or spa treatments. Now there’s nothing wrong with getting a pricey facial at the spa every once in a while, but when you start to believe this is the only way to practice self it becomes a bit of a problem. This misconception of self-care is harmful because it leads people to believe self-care is something they have to spend money on. And unfortunately, many brands are more than happy to encourage this belief since it obviously will lead to more money for them.
However, the truth is you don’t have to spend a dime on self-care. Self-care is so much more than frilly manicures and pricey mascara. It’s about taking care of yourself and your well being. There are so many ways to do self-care that doesn’t involve you spending money. In fact, you may realize that these free methods are actually better than the ones that require you to spend money. With these 8 self-care methods, you can improve your well being without breaking the bank.
1. Exercise
No, this does not require a gym membership. You can exercise almost anywhere and it can be anything from heavy cardio to lifting weights. You can easily do free 10 minute workouts at home by following videos on sites like Youtube. Or you can go outside and jog or go for a hike. If intense exercise scares you, consider simply going for a walk instead. Getting some fresh air and moving your body can still provide many benefits to your physical and mental wellbeing.
2. Start A Journal
One great way to reflect on life and relax is to start a journal. Writing down your thoughts is a great way to review how the day or week went and can help you put your mind at peace. Although writing about your daily life is most common, you could also write in the journal about random thoughts that pop up or use it as a place to vent. Whatever you choose to write about, you’ll most likely find it can help you feel much more at ease.
3. Take A Relaxing Bath
Light some candles and play some peaceful music well taking a dip in the bath. You can also have it be a bubble bath to make it even calmer. Taking a nice bath is a great way to relax and warm up after a stressful day. You can add some extra relaxation by grabbing a glass of water or juice to have well you chill out in the bath.
4. Listen To Some Relaxing Music
Music is a great way to get you pumped upped or focused. But did you know it can also help you practice self-care? You can easily relax and calm down with some nice music. You can create a playlist with calming songs you like or just pursue the Internet for some pre-made ones. Spotify has a great selection of relaxing playlists but if you don’t have a membership with them you can easily find some great music on Youtube too.
5. Focus On The Positive
When you’re having a stressful week, it can be extremely difficult to focus on the positive areas in your life. The good news there are ways to make even a hard day or week seem a little better. One way you can improve your attitude towards experience is by listing positive things that happened. For example, at the end of the day or week think of five good things that you experienced. It might be a promotion, or just simply having the time to watch Netflix. Whatever the case, you’ll find this will make you feel better about your week.
6. Watch A Funny Movie Or Video
One easy way to relax is to watch a funny movie on Netflix. Pick a favorite comedy of yours and take an hour or two to watch it. Comedy movies are a great way to unwind because they usually are pretty lighthearted and don’t involve serious plots. If you don’t have Netflix or any DVDS lying around, consider going to Youtube instead and watching some funny videos there. There are plenty of hilarious Youtubers that can help you unwind after a stressful day.
7. Learn Something New
You might think that to learn a new skill you have to pay for a class or how-to book. But thanks to the Internet and technology, there are plenty of things you can learn for free. You can get down the basics of a language for example, with the app Duolingo. Or you can learn how to Crochet with easy to follow tutorials online. There are so many skills these days you can learn for free. It’s a great way to develop a hobby and force you to do something outside your comfort zone. You’ll find that trying something new helps boost your confidence.
8. Meditate
I know, I know, it sounds cliche. And you’ve probably heard it over and over again. But mediating really can help you relax and calm down. If you have some extra time in your day, try to do some mediating. Just close your eyes and breathe slowly. If you’re not sure what to do, you can use a free app or video that will help guide you through the mediation. After you’re done, you’ll feel more calm and rejuvenated.
