You’ve set a budget, been realistic, and are getting some control over your spending. Congratulations! Now the only trouble is that you miss those little “treats” you used to splurge on. You know…fun, pampering, blowing off steam. Well, just because you miss those things doesn’t mean you have to cheat on your budget. Here are 8 ways you can treat yourself — yes really — without spending a dime!
1. A Book and a Warm Drink
Especially in winter, pampering yourself and taking a break could be as simple as picking up a book and a warm cup of tea, coffee, or cocoa. Grab a blanket if you want, and go somewhere you won’t be disturbed. In the summer, drink something cold instead. Lock yourself in the bathroom if you have to!
2. Nap More
Set a timer, your FitBit, whatever. Take 20 minutes with your phone on “do not disturb” to lie down somewhere and take a power nap. If you can’t sleep, just lie there. Do this while the kids sleep or in the 20 minutes before they get home from school and all heck breaks loose. It’s amazing what those 20 minutes can do for your mood.
3. Meditate
Whether it’s the middle of the day, early in the morning or right before bed, take a few minutes to meditate. Do some stretches if you wish. Just take a break and focus on breathing and relaxing. Chanting is not required.
4. Plop Down for Some Me Time
Tune out, pop some popcorn, and watch your favorite sitcom. Enough said.
5. Paint Your Nails
Come on, you don’t need to visit a salon to get your nails done. You know you have some nail polish somewhere. Take 15 minutes and paint your own nails, then relax while you wait for them to dry.
6. Color
There are plenty of adult coloring pages you can print at home for free. You’ll be surprised at how relaxing it is to sit down and color for 30 minutes.
7. Take a Bath
Even better if you have a jetted tub or a nice, deep soaker. Go ahead…use bubbles and light a candle or two. Let the phone ring!
8. Do Nothing
Take a vacation or personal day, and don’t plan anything. Sleep in, then go window shopping, have a movie marathon at home, or nap as much as you want. Sometimes not having any plans is the best pampering of all.
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