5 Free Ways to Self-Care
/It is so easy to forget to take care of yourself. Practicing self care, whether its being kind to yourself or treating yourself in an indulgence once and a while, is key to happiness, balance and health. We often think of massages, those new shoes you've been eyeing online, or even that splurge worthy dinner (or drink because hey, we know what it's like to be a millennial on a budget!) when it comes to how we can "treat ourselves," but self-care doesn't have to be expensive or even cost money for that matter. In fact, it can be totally and completely free.
Today on the blog we're sharing 5 ways you can self-care that won't cost you a cent and provide major returns on happiness.
1. Reclaim Your Time By Saying "No"
Seems like an easy one, no? Often times we feel the pressure to agree to things or say yes to people even when we know we're extending ourselves too much. It is GREAT to want to help others and be there for everyone else, but you need to be there for yourself first in order to be there for others. Sometimes it's okay to say no and know that it's not being selfish - it's about taking care of yourself.
2. Take a Bath
Hot water and a bathtub has cured many a heartbreak, headache, and back ache - and for a reason! When our body temperature rises, endorphins are released into our system. The rise in body temperature also improves blood circulation, improved lymph circulation, detoxification, increased metabolism and a calmer nervous system. We're not going to argue with science - taking a bath does wonders for the soul, body and mind. 🙏🏼✨
3. Extra Sleep
This might be the hardest of all five, but cramming in as many extra hours of sleep as possible results in a more rejuvenated, present and focused you. Getting a full 8 hours each night is like a "restore to factory settings" in the best way possible. We get that it might not always be realistic, but if it means giving up an hour of Netflix for it, we surely recommend it.
4. Sunbathe
What can be seen as a luxury for those on summer holiday is actually a very good way to practice self-care! And if you live in LA like us, you can do it anytime of the year! Sunlight can increase your serotonin levels and provide the body with Vitamin D. Just don't forget to put on some SPF before doing so!
5. Be Your Own BFF
Being kind to yourself is the only way you should live your life. No more self-deprecating thoughts, self-doubt or eating yourself up over a mistake! Next time a negative voice or self-judgmental thought enters your head, don't be so quick to accept it as fact. Instead, tell yourself something kind about yourself. Create a mantra for yourself and repeat it to yourself every morning or night in the mirror. Once you find self-acceptance, you'll realize self-care will come easily. 💕
Have some other tips on self-care? Share them in our comments below!
