10 Inexpensive (and FREE) Self-Care Ideas for Boomers!

Self-care. It should be the easiest thing in the world, yet many of us don’t make time for it. For some, time isn’t the issue; money is. Some self-care methods—like mani-pedis or spa days—are too pricey to be a regular occurrence. So, does that mean you have to put self-care on hold? Of course not! You can take care of yourself without stressing about finances. Here are 10 inexpensive (and FREE) self-care ideas for Boomers!

1. Take a bath.

Most of us take showers. They’re quick, convenient, and refreshing. However, there’s a lot to be said for baths. What’s more relaxing than sinking down in some hot water and allowing our stress to melt away? For an extra level of relaxation, add some bath salts or bubble bath to your water. You can even DIY your own bubble bath! Check out these recipes and let the relaxation begin.

2. Make some herbal tea.

Did you know that over 50 percent of Americans prefer to drink coffee over tea in the mornings? Some people aren’t themselves until they get a bit of caffeinated goodness in their system. However, if you’re trying to relax, you may to want to give herbal tea a try. Mint, chamomile, and lavender teas are noted for being liquid stress-relievers. So, if you’re trying to cope with anxiety, don’t reach for the coffee pot. Brew a nice, calming cup of herbal tea instead.

3. Take a walk.

Walking is free therapy. Of course, most of us are aware of its physical benefits. But did you know walking can also promote better mental health? In addition to improving memory, it can lower stress levels and reduce depression (according to American Behavioral Clinics). Plus, you don’t have to join a gym or buy a treadmill to walk. All you need is a pair of comfortable shoes, and you can walk away your troubles.

4. Tackle your to-do list.

Sometimes, we’re stressed due to circumstances outside of our control. However, we can also stress ourselves out. Case in point—our to-do lists. Whether you have a physical list or a running tally in your head of everything that needs to get done, we all have responsibilities. If that list of yours has done nothing but expand, it’s time to whittle it down. Pro tip: Don’t attempt to do everything at once. Instead, tackle that list one item at a time. There’s no need to add stress to stress!

5. Go outside.

Like walking, nature offers a myriad of physical, emotional, and mental benefits. Not only can it sharpen our focus, but it can even help you recover from stress even more quickly! So, on those warm, sunny days, don’t just admire the great outdoors through a window. Go outside and soak up some rays! This is one of the best FREE self-care practices in the world.

6. Cook a healthy meal.

Self-care is exactly what the name implies—the act of taking care of yourself. Part of self-care includes maintaining your physical health. An easy way to do this is practicing mindful eating. Pay attention to the foods you put in your body. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Choose an orange over a cookie every now and then. Most importantly, stay hydrated! Studies show that dehydration may actually increase the risk of death by twenty percent. Make sure you’re always sipping water throughout the day!

7. Read a new book (or an old favorite)!

Reading has been a favorite pastime for hundreds of years. There’s something magical about losing yourself in a book: experiencing new worlds alongside fictional characters not so different from us. Additionally, reading is a wonderful stress-reliever. In fact, it may reduce stress up to 68 percent! Not feeling up to reading? No matter—you can always give an audiobook a try.

8. Do something creative.

The arts have suffered at the hands of today’s fast-paced, digitized world. When we’re bored, we have the tendency to turn on the TV or scroll through Facebook. But social media is far from an anodyne. In fact, researchers believe it may actually have negative effects on mental health. Getting creative is a much better (and healthier) way to relieve boredom. Write that story that’s been trundling about your head for the past ten-odd years. Paint that breathtaking sunset. You don’t have to be an award-winning novelist or a renowned painter to be creative. All you need is an open mind and a full heart!

9. Plant some flowers.

Gardening is an excellent way to relieve stress. That’s why horticultural therapy exists! It can provide structure and meaning to our lives—two key components in the battle for our mental health. To score some inexpensive flowers, check discount tables at garden centers or look for local plant fairs.

Related: 5 Best Low-Maintenance Houseplants For Seniors and Retirees

10. Spend some time with friends.

Friendship is important—especially for seniors. Even the most introverted among us need that quality time with the people we love. The importance of friendship truly cannot be overstated. Friends provide emotional support and reduce loneliness. Studies also show that friendship might even have positive effects on our physical health. If you haven’t been feeling much like yourself lately, consider reaching out to your friends. Chances are, they’ll be happy to hear from you, too.

*-Price at time of publishing.

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