Self Care for little or no money

We all find ourselves without enough time or money at some point(s) in our lives. Sometimes not enough of either (gulp.) So I thought I would share some inexpensive or free things we can do when we need a little boost! Some take very little time and some you may have to force yourself to set aside some time for self care. If you are missing socializing, invite a friend along (except for the bedtime foot rub, that would just be weird.) Or if you are an introvert like me do it alone and silently (that’s not at all creepy right?)

When you miss pedicures:

Bed time foot care ritual: Buy yourself Gehwol Fusskraft Blue at Reflections. No substitutions my friends. Buy. The. Good. Stuff. Place it in on your nightstand and take a few minutes at bed time to give your self a soothing foot rub. This little bed time ritual puts you first if only for a few minutes and gives you the gift of soft feet.

When you need some pampering:

Give your hands a Facial: If you are like most people, you have a little (or large) collection of skin care products you no longer use/didn’t love/forgot about/recieved as a gift… Well, it’s time to dust them off and give your hands a little treat! Shape your nails then use a scrub, a masque and massage with a cream from the “beauty product wasteland” Then pour yourself a coffee or glass of wine and admire your beautiful hands.

When you love really good food:

Try an new recipe. Is there something you’ve had a at restaurant that was really good? Look for a similar (5 star) recipe on-line and give it a try. If you need suggestions for something special, try searching “Braised Short Rib,” “Red Pepper Pasta Sauce,” “Beef Bourguignon,” “Seared Scallops,” “General Tso’s Chicken” or “Chicken Scallopini”. Now here is the really strange part, set up a table somewhere other than your kitchen, If you seldom use your dining room, it can work but the idea is for this to be different! It sounds odd but it makes it special to change your surroundings. Trust me on this one.

When you want a fresh space:

A great way to freshen up a room that costs absolutely nothing is to purge! True fact: reduced clutter equals reduced stress. Set aside some time to focus on one room. Get rid of stuff (don’t just move it), tidy up and do a thorough clean. Re-style the shelves/mantle/side table and light a candle or spritz some room spray. Buy some flowers or a new plant if you wish. This one takes some time but it’s worth it! It might sound more like work than self-care but, trust me, a welcoming room and a job well done will boost your mood.

When all else fails:

Curl up and read a good book.

xxooo

Callie