Tips for Self-Care on a Budget

On a tight budget but still want to find ways to look after yourself? Just because you have a limited amount of cash to splurge on self-care doesn’t mean caring for your own well-being isn't important. Although you might typically associate the term "self-care" with luxurious trips to the spa, pricey treatments, or shopping sprees, the truth is that some of the most basic, nourishing, and soothing self-care doesn't have to cost a thing. If you're searching for ways to practice self-care on a budget, here are some tips to get you going.

Get Back to Basics and Look After Your Health

Though the term "self-care" is often associated with fun extras or "nice-to-have" goodies, the truth is that the most basic form of self-care is looking after your health and making sure you give your body everything it needs to function at its best. Having a salad for lunch to get a boost of vitamins and minerals could be a form of self-care! To ensure you stay healthy, make sure you:

• Prioritize a good night’s sleep each night
• Drink plenty of water and other healthy liquids, such as herbal tea or decaffeinated coffee
• Incorporate lots of delicious and fresh vitamin-packed fruits and veggies into your diet

Explore the Outdoors for Free "Me Time"

Why go to a pricey spa when you can explore the great outdoors for free? Getting outside is a great way to unwind, de-stress and take some “me time” for yourself without needing to break the bank. You can tailor this option to whatever your preferences may be! For instance, you could:

• Go for a hike in the mountains or a jog on the beach
• Grab your picnic basket and go enjoy an outdoor meal with a friend
• Enjoy a relaxed outdoor stroll through your neighborhood

Discover New Hobbies You Can Do on the Cheap

You don’t have to spend lots of money to enjoy yourself – in fact, there are plenty of hobbies that can be done cheaply or even for free! The next time you want to take a self-care day, you may want to:

• Visit your local library and find new reading material
• Learn to crochet or knit
• Try your hand at creative writing
• Start keeping a journal to help let out your stress and negative emotions
• Download a meditation app

Sticking to a strict budget shouldn't have to mean forgoing essential self-care. If you need to keep your monthly expenses low but still want to look after your physical, mental, and emotional health, these tips can help you feel pampered without having to strain your wallet. Try them out today!