Self-care on a budget
Written by Christine Sharma

Wednesday, July 4th, 2018

Self-care is a natural part of how the human brain and body stay healthy. It's vital that we take the time to recharge our batteries and pay attention to ourselves, especially in our fast-paced, productivity-centred culture. However, you don't need to spend hundreds of dollars at a spa or on a weekend getaway to do so. There are self-care options you can practice that won't eat at your wallet.

Meditation

Meditation is a form of deep relaxation that connects your mind with your body. You can take a group meditation class or use mobile apps and websites to help understand and practice meditation on your own. Meditation helps you to be more mindful, and you can practice it in almost any quiet space, including your home. It allows you to relax and recharge.

Creative Expression

Writing, painting, drawing, journaling, dancing — these are all ways you can practice creative expression. Self-care through self-expression can be as simple as taking a night off to sit somewhere comfortable with a colouring book for adults and a pack of coloured pencils. Having a creative outlet can help you let loose, get in touch with your creative side, and relax.

A Night In

Cook your favourite meal, watch your favourite movie, read a book, settle into a bubble bath, or do all of the above to create a low-budget night in for yourself. Focus on you, and what specifically helps you recharge, to decide what you'll do that night. Get rid of distractions like work or social media, and take the time to care for yourself.

A Pedicure

Find your best-rated, closest nail salon and head over for a calming pedicure. Pedicures tend to stay around the $30 mark and can provide a very relaxing experience. You'll feel like you're walking on a cloud after your feet are scrubbed, massaged and treated with steaming water.

A Do-Nothing Day

Everyone deserves a day off. Reserve a day for yourself to not worry about everyday issues and distractions — put your productivity aside for that day and plan nothing for yourself. Maybe you'll wake up at noon and binge-watch TV shows all day, or maybe you'll wake up at 9 am, make breakfast and decide to go for a run. Finish any work-related tasks the day before or the day after your do-nothing day. Use the entire day to relax — in whatever manner you choose.

Take a Walk

Put on some comfortable clothes and runners and walk around your neighbourhood or a scenic area. Walk into a café and indulge in a coffee or tea, or take your beverage to go and walk around the area. Pay attention to the sounds of the day, or put on your earphones and pretend you're walking to your own personal soundtrack. Bonus: walking is good exercise.

Self-care is all about taking the time to do something for yourself, to relax, and to recharge, regardless of how you choose to do so. You can make time to care for yourself at little to no cost.

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