Self-care is so popularised in this day and age that we often lose sight of what it really means to care for ourselves. There is no price tag on self-care; it can be done anytime, anywhere, on a budget, and sometimes even for free.
1. Meditate
Put on some meditative sounds of nature, and take some time to center yourself. Meditating is the most straightforward self-care idea to align your mind and body and focus on your feelings. Acknowledging your emotions and thoughts helps you understand yourself better. You’ll come out of the meditative state with more introspection on your life.
2. Listening To Uplifting Podcasts
Waking up and listening to an uplifting podcast or simply tuning in on the go could quickly pump up your mood for the day. These podcasts can motivate you and leave you in a good mood for the rest of the day. You can listen to them for free on Spotify, YouTube, and most digital streaming apps.
3. Build a Blanket Fort
Unleashing your inner child is a surefire way to make you happy and feel creative. A blanket fort costs nothing but time and whatever you have around your home. Plus, it’s a cozy and fun activity with your loved ones.
4. Catch Up With a Friend
Humans are social creatures, and we crave connection. Catching up with a friend for coffee or simply having them over for the day would help you destress. You could sit around and talk; you don’t have to fill your time with much.
5. Have a Digital Detox
Spending too much time looking at a screen may not help your back problems and fatigue. It’s time to take a break from the screens and digital world and touch some grass instead. Sitting outside and looking at the birds and clouds could quickly help you realign yourself with nature. Either that or go to a park or the beach.
6. Practice Mindfulness
Practicing mindfulness in everything you do is another simple way to practice self-care without spending anything. Activate your five senses and feel everything. Smell the fragrances of your soap in the shower, taste and appreciate the food you make yourself in the morning, and feel comforted by your hot cup of tea. Being aware and mindful helps you live in the moment and stimulates your brain.
7. Decluttering Your Space
When aggravated, decluttering and cleaning your space could help improve your mood. Take away the mess and donate the things you don’t need. A clean, organized space could give you space to breathe and be more productive.
8. Do Some Volunteer Work
Giving back to the community is a tremendous self-care idea as you form human connections with people and get serotonin boosts when you make them happy. Volunteers are always needed in every shelter or organization worldwide, so join one with a cause you support.
9. Journal It Out
We all need an outlet for self-expression when things get too intense for us to handle on our own. Some people paint, some sing at karaoke bars, and others write it all in a journal. Either way, it’s a great way to express yourself in your own words and further understand yourself.
10. Take a Relaxing Shower
Something as simple as a shower is a great self-care idea often overlooked. Take a warm, relaxing shower with your favorite soap and massage yourself as you go. Scrub away all the dirt and grime of the day down the drain. A hot shower helps to relax your aching muscles and bones, no problem.
11. Get Yourself a Small Gift
A gift does not have to be expensive. It can be as simple as getting yourself a chocolate chip muffin or that coffee you’ve been craving. For some, it can be helpful gifts, like nice-smelling laundry detergent or a new toothbrush. It doesn’t have to be a wild gift, but something you need instead.
12. Play a Video Game
There are tons of free video games out there for you to play. There’s even a whole genre for relaxing and calming games. As long as you have a phone or a computer, you will have access to a world of games.
13. Movie Night
A simple movie night in is highly underrated. Dim the lights, watch your favorite movie, and get some snacks to munch on. You’ll be gifted with serotonin boosts from your favorite characters lighting up the screen and a cozy night in.
14. Watch a Virtual Concert
With the gift of the internet, you can experience a concert anywhere and anytime. Search for the concerts of your favorite artists on YouTube or watch a Tiny Desk Concert for a more intimate experience. Even concert documentaries give you more insight into your famous musicians and their lives.
15. Cloudgaze or Stargaze
This works great for those with a backyard or simply a window to look at the sky. Grab a blanket and stare at the sky for hours, cloud gazing or stargazing if you can spot stars at night. It’s a simple activity that relaxes your mind while allowing you to get imaginative.
Source: Google, specifically Medium and TheGoodTrade.
