I’m a big proponent of the “treat yo self” mantra. I think it’s great women have adopted this mindset to give themselves permission to make big purchases or go on fabulous trips but I think it’s important to remember that sometimes there’s not a lot of time or money to treat yourself with. What has become one of my favorite self care rituals – taking an hour long bubble bath in our soaker tub – wasn’t always accessible to me. And I don’t think “treat yo self” is something we should only do on occasion either. So, I’m sharing some small ways to treat yo self on a regular basis. They are affordable and accessible, because we all deserve a little treat more than once in a while.
The most consistent treat I get for myself is fresh flowers for my office. While flowers are typically seen as an indulgence I’m able to get a grocery store bouquet each week for $8. I typically get my flowers from Trader Joes where a dozen roses in $7.99. If you don’t have a Trader Joes near you you might not be able to find a dozen roses for under $10 but your local grocery store should have some kind of bouquet at this price point. I also really like hydrangeas – you only need three for a nice desktop sized arrangement.
Face masks are a great way to have spa like moment at home. Professional facials really cost what they do to cover the labor of the aesthetician and you can replicate a basic facial at home. I get a lot of masks in my Ipsy bags and admit that I do like masks that cost more than $10 – although when you break it down to cost per use it will be under $10. An affordable mask that I have been enjoying lately is the Pixi remedy collection which run $24 for 10oz but you can also get single use Yes! Masks for under $10.
Another at home beauty treat I love is impress manicure. These press on nails don’t make a mess of glue, they already have adhesive on them and just have a small piece of plastic to pull of and then apply the nail. Most packs are $5.99 to $8.99. I find that one set will last me 10 days. I get a ton of compliments of these sets and people always think it’s a professional manicure – even the ladies at the salon where I get pedicures have been fooled!
There’s something super relaxing about sitting down and just taking a moment to do nothing and enjoy a nice cup of coffee – or tea or hot chocolate if you prefer. While visiting a local coffee shop for a coffee and small pastry should keep you under $10 you can also enjoy this time at home and use that $10 to cover the whole week. My favorite coffee is Hawaiian Hazelnut from, The Fresh Market and I also use hazelnut creamer and zero calorie sweetener. For tea, my favorite is Harney & Sons – there is some variety on price based on the flavor but about 20 sachets will run around $10. For hot chocolate I use Swiss Miss and add some salt (I know it sounds weird, but it’s good – trust me!) heavy creamer and top off with whipped cream and chocolate syrup.
Reading is another way I like to spend quiet time alone. I look forward to my issue of Southern Living ($14.95 for an annual subscription) arriving each month and I also read books. Lately I have been loving Emily Ley’s book, right now I am reading Growing Boldly. Amazon tip – most used books will be under $10 including the shipping.
I hope this post has given you some inspiration to treat yo self on a regular basis. I’d love to hear your favorite small ways to make life a little more pleasant.