Don’t Cheat Yourself, Treat Yourself
Life, as significant as it is, can also present daily challenges that take a toll on us emotionally. While there’s no way to control everything that life throws your way, there are things that you can do to recharge and rebalance. Tending to your personal desires or needs can ultimately help to improve your emotional health. While you may not be able to afford a trip to the hairdresser, salon or massage parlor, there are things that you can do to treat yourself.
1. An at-home spa day
While heading to a massage parlor might be more than you can afford, you can still treat yourself to the benefit of a massage by doing it at home. Massages are great for relieving stress as well as other medical issues you may be having and can make you feel a lot better about life. If you are going to complete the massage at home, you will need to invest in a few things including a massage table or chair, massage oils and maybe some candles and light music to set the tone.
2. Movie marathon
Movies are a great distraction from reality. They give you something to focus on besides the craziness that might be going on in your life. Instead of heading out to the theater, you could set up shop at home and enjoy as many flicks as you would like. Enjoy some of your favorite snacks while you binge watch movies that simply make you feel good.
3. Retail therapy
What girl doesn’t love the idea of shopping? Set a shopping budget and head out to your favorite store to buy things that make you smile. Whether you decide to pick up some new home décor accessories for your room, get a new pair of shoes or even a new makeup kit, there is something very satisfying about spending your money on you (as opposed to paying a bill).
4. A sweet treat
Do you have a sweet tooth? Why not treat yourself to something sweet? A slice of pie, a new flavor of ice cream or some good chocolate will do the trick.
5. Take a nice bath
Draw yourself a nice hot bath and just soak for an hour or so. You can add soothing touches like bath oils, candles and bath salts for a more therapeutic feel.
6. Mani and pedi
You don’t have to go to a nail salon to treat yourself to a mani/pedi. Grab a large bowl to soak your feet in for a few minutes. A manicure set only costs a few bucks and should include things like a nail clipper and foot brush, among other tools. After you have soaked for a while, care for your feet and hands by getting rid of the dead skin, exfoliating and then have fun polishing those nails!
7. Do your hair
If you are known to pull your hair into a ponytail often, try switching up your hairstyle for a change. There is something about a new do that will make you feel like a new woman all over again. Even a nice wash, dry and press can have dramatic effects on your confidence. Maybe you could try styling it differently or applying a different color for fun.
8. Take a staycation
Has it been a while since you’ve been on vacation? If it is money that is keeping you from vacationing, why not try a staycation? This is where you would find a local hotel and take in sights that are nearby. Staycations are a lot more affordable but can be just as beneficial if you’re looking for a little R&R.
No matter how many responsibilities you have, no matter how hectic life can be, you have to remember to take care of yourself. If you have been putting things off because of affordability, lack of time or just out of pure negligence, the above ideas should give you some notion of what you can do to change it. Give yourself a massage, watch your favorite movie, or take a mini vacation nearby. If you start incorporating this into your normal routine, you’ll find that life seems a little easier to deal with.
Article by Layla Davis
This article was written by the guest author listed at the end of the article.