Self-Care on a Budget
Social media self-care seems to be all about spa days, candles and chocolate, and shopping trips. While these things are certainly a great way to treat yourself, they all have something in common: they’re expensive! Most people cannot afford these elaborate things and experiences regularly (or at all), and that’s perfectly fine. Self-care isn’t about material items, it’s about taking care of yourself mentally and emotionally, and that goal does not have to break the bank. Here’s our list of self-care activities for those of us on a budget.
Spend time in nature: Some of the best things in life are free, and nature is certainly one of these things. Even a few minutes outdoor walk will lift your mood and get you connected to your body and surroundings. If you have more time to spare, try taking a library book and a blanket to the local park and watching the clouds go by.
Declutter your space: Excess in our living space can create stress and clutter. While cleaning and editing isn’t exactly everyone’s idea of fun, this is real self care: doing something that benefits your space and your mental health.
Guided meditations: There are excellent free guided meditations, yoga practices, and stretching videos available on YouTube. If you have a place to sit and an internet connection, you can look up a video and take a few moments to calm the mind with meditation.
Cook your favorite meal: Often, we’re cooking to fit a diet or simply whipping up whatever is fastest on busy weeknights. It can be a treat for the body and mind to set aside time to cook something you truly enjoy or try out a new recipe.
Vision board your goals: grab a pen and paper and ask yourself: if I was the best version of myself, what would my day look like? What can I do to get there? Putting goals on paper allows us to break them down into action steps and achievable milestones. Bonus points for getting creative with a vision board on Pinterest or Canva.
Utilize local resources: Local libraries are one of the few places left where you can spend the day for free, reading whatever interests you. Also, check if there are charity or thrift stores in your area for a day of on-budget shopping that’s good for the environment, too!
Peace and quiet: Sometimes the best thing for our mental health is simply to give our brains a break from the constant stimulation we receive in today’s connected world. Carve out some time to turn your phone off and do whatever speaks to you: read, journal, draw, walk, or do absolutely anything at all.
We hope these ideas for budget-friendly self care gives you some ideas and inspiration. Additionally, the best way to take care of your mental health, counseling, may be affordable to you. Call your insurance provider to determine what your coverage is for behavioral health services. Many plans offer affordable co-pays for services, and if you don’t have coverage, your local Community Mental Health service may be able to direct you to resources. Ready to get started with therapy and reach your goals? Give AWC a call at (248) 413 - 5865 to set up an appointment.
