Taking care of ourselves can be hard work, especially when we have many obligations pulling us in different directions. Work, family, pets, bills, home, it can feel overwhelming at times. All too often that last item on our laundry list of things to do -self care, never gets done. Self care means taking care of yourself so that you can be healthy, you can be well, and that you can do all the things you want to accomplish in a day.

Give yourself permission to enjoy time to focus on yourself. Dr. Carter in EverydayHealth says "Self-care is not selfish...the pandemic is a time of incredible anxiety and stress. Focusing on what makes us feel nourished, on what gives us meaning, is part of easing those feelings and giving us a more solid foundation." So, don’t feel bad for focusing on yourself, just enjoy it!

Below, are 15 ideas for self care on a budget (adapted from The Good Trade):

1. Buy yourself flowers. You deserve it! A beautiful bouquet can brighten up any room, and the floral scent can be enjoyed for days.
2. Light a candle, burn some incense, or use a diffuser. Certain scents such as lavender, rose, and chamomile are known to aid in sleep and relaxation.
3. Pick out your favorite nail polish colour and give yourself an at home mani-pedi. When we focus on ourselves we begin to tune into our bodies and how we feel in the moment.
4. Bake some fresh bread. Enjoy the slow process of kneading the dough and waiting for the dough to rise. Bread is cheap to make, and not only will it make your house smell great, it tastes great too!
5. Whip up your favourite meal. Go all out and set the table with the nice silverware, open a bottle of wine, put some music on, and light a candle. Remind yourself that you are worthy of beautiful, nourishing, and delicious food!
6. Re-read one of your favorite books from when you were younger, re-watch your favourite movie and eat your favourite childhood snacks. Remember what entertainment brought you joy as a kid!
7. Practice generosity by donating or volunteering. Whatever it is, do it quietly and intentionally for a cause that is meaningful to you.
8. Take exactly the type of shower you want to take. Long, short, hot, cold, filled with luxurious products or affordable bar soap; bathe and refresh the body that helps you face the world.
9. Write a letter to your younger self. What do you know now that younger you would be amazed by?
10. Handwrite a note to your present self. What is it that you want to remember? Could be to pick up coffee at the store, or it could be that you are worthy and loved.
11. If positive self-talk is difficult for you, consider practicing neutral self-talk. Take the small steps that work for you.
12. Write out your values. What is most important to you, and how can you more deeply prioritize these things in your daily life?
13. Remind yourself of who you are, beyond what you are in relation to others. Maybe you're a parent or a child—but who are you outside of that label?
14. Spend time with your pets.
15. Forgive someone, even if it’s yourself.