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Honestly, I thought self care was a selfish thing where you go to the spa every other day and spend hundreds on fancy treatments. Turns out, that’s not really correct. Self care, as everyone refers to it now, is really just taking care of yourself, relaxing, and unwinding, which is not selfish at all. And, from what I’ve figured, it doesn’t need to cost hundreds, and a lot of it you can do from your home!
Towels
The difference between a mediocre towel and a plush, cozy towel can change your whole bathroom experience. Trust me, just do it.
Books
Cozy up with a great book and spend some time relaxing and reading.
Foot Mask
I didn’t even know this was a thing until I received one in a subscription box. They’re a really simple way to pamper yourself on the cheap.
Magazine Subscription
Another good way to relax is by reading some magazines. With topics ranging on anything from gardening to gossip and cooking to clothes, you’re sure to find one you’ll enjoy.
Hair Wrap
It’s hard to do much with wet hair, and I rarely blow dry mine after it’s washed, so if you want to read after showering without dripping water give this hair towel wrap a try! I use mine almost every day.
Hair Mask
While we’re on the subject of hair, in shower hair masks, after shower hair conditioners, and more give your locks a great boost.
Nap
As my husband says “Just rest!’’. If you’re crabby, overwhelmed, or just plain tired, sometimes a good nap is the self care you need the most.
Perfume
People say if you look good you feel good. I really think that’s true and it can also be said that if you smell good you feel good, too, so spritz or roll on some perfume and put a little pep in your step!
Candles
While we’re on the subject of smelling good, let’s talk candles. Whether it’s wax melts in a warmer or lighting up a good old fashioned wick, the aroma of a candle is a cozy addition to your day that will help you relax and unwind.
Drinks
No, I’m not talking about wine and margaritas. I’m talking about heading to your local coffee shop for a latte, hot chocolate, or an Italian soda (raspberry-coconut is my favorite!). Sometimes treating yourself to a fancy drink the the self care you need to boost your mood and get you through a tough week.
Nail Polish
Honestly, I don’t really enjoying getting mani pedis as much as most people do. It stresses me out since they’re so expensive, and I can never seem to relax during them, so home manicures are more my thing. You can save a ton by doing your nails yourself, and it’s really pretty easy.
Workout
Taking care of your insides is just as important as the self care you can see on the outside. Grab some weights and/or resistance loops and start exercising! There are tons of online subscriptions, free workout plans on Pinterest, and great videos on YouTube for you to try. As always, speak with your doctor before beginning an exercise regimen.
Foot Soak
This is really such a cheap and easy self care idea. Honestly, I put warm water and some of Dr. Teal’s soak into a big tub I use for under sink bathroom storage (I know it sounds weird, but I clean it out!) and soak my feet in that before my self pedicure.
Lip Scrub
Lip. Scrub. It’s awesome. I use this lip scrub to exfoliate my lips (yes, your lips need exfoliating, too!), and it’s amazing. Especially during those dry winter months, this is a must-add to your self care routine.
Tea
Having some tea can really take you from freak out mode to chill out mode ASAP. Some of my favorites are green tea, Lemon Zinger, and camomile. Add a little local honey, or order honey if you can’t find it locally, relax, and enjoy. And if you have some loose leaf tea you can add some fun by enjoying it with my little buddy, the Manatea, that you can see below!
Slippers
Your feet work hard for you all day long, so why not give them a cozy place to rest with some good slippers.
Bubble Bath
Soak up your me time with a good bubble bath.
Lip Balm
Pucker up and put some lip balm on those babies! Dry, cracked lips are not the most attractive, but besides that they’re painful! I keep mine moisturized and keep the cracks at bay with these lip balms from the Savannah Bee Company.
Hobby
Take a break and work on a project or hobby. Something as simple as painting a wall, crocheting a hat, or working in the garden is a great way to unwind.
Plants
My mom has tons of plants. Like tons of them. And when I was younger I used to think it was crazy. Why would someone want or need so many plants? Well, I’m eating my words now because just this morning I watered my growing collection of plants, which is now almost ten, and that doesn’t include the starters I have that need to be potted. Now I understand the plant obsession. Obviously, they look nice in your home and make it feel welcoming, but it’s very relaxing to take care of them, repot them, and try to produce more of them. Really, in caring for the plants you’re caring for yourself by taking a break from the craziness of life and just enjoying a fun and healthy hobby.
Robe
Cozy up in a plush robe and get your comfy on! You can even put it in the dryer a few minutes before so it’s toasty warm when you put it on.
Face Mask
There are about a million different kinds of face masks to try from diy, to sheet masks, and everything in between. A few brands I love are Ahava, Keihls (usually over $25, but worth it!), and Generation Clay.
Moisturizer
Dry skin is the worst. It’s tight, flaky, and lacks a healthy glow. Take care of yourself and your skin with a good facial moisturizer like Kiehl’s.
Lotion
Just like your face, it’s important to moisturize your body. There are many good moisturizers out there. I like this Cetaphil one.
Flavored Dental Floss
Strawberry, coconut, or orange floss!? Flossing might not be the most fun self care, but it sure is better with this fancy floss!
Fabric Softener
Freshly washed bedding and towels are always nice. Add a little treat for your senses with this lovely lavender fabric softener, and your laundry will give off a lovely and relaxing smell.
Walk
I guess this could be categorized under exercise, but a simple walk doesn’t have to be intense or coordinated like a workout. Take your dog, cat, pot belly pig for walk, or just yourself for a stroll around the block. (Check out this article for some ways to keep your pup cool while inside and out walking!) Fresh air is good for everyone.
Day Off
When I was in school my mom would occasionally let me take “mental health” days off, and I’m starting to think I should continue that as an adult. Sometimes, it’s just good to take a day for yourself and give your brain a break. I’m not saying you should skip work all the time, but it’s not a bad idea to request a couple days off just for yourself.
I hope this list gave you some ideas that you’ll use to care for yourself. Remember, as the saying goes, “you have to take care of yourself before you can take care of others”, so it’s good to make yourself a priority, too!
toys!
