We’re on lockdown, and we can’t to the things we might usually do to keep ourselves feeling good. All we have is the same rooms we’ve been living in for weeks- so what can we change up about our routine to feel like we are taking care of ourselves at this weird time?
Money is also a worry for many people at this time- worries about job security, loss of income and redundancy. Meaning, now is not a brilliant time to be shelling out money on things to make yourself feel better. It’s time to look at some free self-care ideas for isolation.
Things that will make your mind, body and soul happy- without needing to spend a penny.
10 Free Self Care Ideas
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Do something creative
Doing something creative at this time is likely to help you feel good, and feel like you have something to show for your time.
It’s human nature to love creating things. This could be literally anything you have an interest in- drawing, painting, knitting, cooking a new recipe, creating a mood board, digital art- the list is endless.
Pick something you’ve wanted to try for a long time and find joy in making something.
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Call your friends and family
If you’re feeling low, calling your friends or family will uplift you. Laughter, seeing a familiar face or voice can help ease your worries at an anxious time.
All you need is a WiFi connection and a phone. And if you’re worried about paying your phone bill? Check out airtime rewards where you can get automatic cashback when you use your bank cards at retailers such as Waitrose, Boots, Morrisons, Argos, Wilkos, Holland & Barrett- and loads more!
You can then use this cashback to put towards your phone bill each month! I love it! Use my referral code 9F333XJG and we will both get 50p.
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Try something new
This down time is probably the best time ever to try something new. Always wanted to learn a language? Start eating more healthily? Do the perfect eyeliner flick? Now is the time to master a new skill, if you want to.
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Have a pamper evening
A pamper session is the OG of self-care, but there’s a reason for that. It feels good to take care of yourself.
So get into a bubble bath, put a face mask on, use a special hair mask, paint your nails and smother yourself in body lotion. You’ll emerge feeling warm and content after spending some time caring for your body.
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Get into a routine
A routine does wonders for your body clock. By getting into a routine in the morning and at night time, you are more likely to feel more well-rested and ready to face the day.
Waking up at the same time each day and eating breakfast is a great way to start. Winding down in the hours before going to bed, and again going to bed at the same time each night is a sure-fire way to a better night’s sleep.
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Invest in yourself
Investing in yourself is one of the best possible things to invest in- forget the stock markets! There are currently a wealth of free courses that are available, including courses which are usually hundreds of dollars.
You can take a course in almost anything- from photography, to blogging, to life coaching. Pick a course which is on a topic that you are super interested in and use this time to get started!
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Get some fresh air
I’m a huge advocate of spending some time in nature to achieve mindfulness. Take some time to walk in nature, without the distraction of music, to listen to the sounds of your surroundings. Listen to the birds, feel the sun on your face, and take note of the scenes around you.
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Download a free audiobook
To accompany you on your walk in nature, you could download a free audiobook when you sign up to the Audible 30 day free trial.
Audible is a service from Amazon, and it’s my favourite new way to “read” books. If you want to start reading more, this is a great way to consume books whilst on the go. Check out my guide to get the most out of Audible.
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Do some gentle exercise
So apparently exercise releases endorphins which make you feel good?! Doing some gentle exercise will not only give you the feel-good-factor, but can help you to build strength in your body which is another way that you can care for yourself.
There are literally hundreds of free workout videos that you can find on YouTube- my favourites are usually yoga or Pilates.
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Plan for the future
Future planning and goal setting is the best way to care for yourself- by goal setting you are taking care of ‘future you.’
Fancy going on the holiday of a lifetime next year? Saving towards your first home? Changing your career? Set the goal- and plan how you’re going to get there!
We’re all experiencing one of the strangest set of circumstances in decades. It feels uncertain, out of our control, and a little scary. But by using these free self care ideas, keeping mindful, and staying indoors, we can ride out the storm.
You might also enjoy:
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- How To Make Extra Money While On Furlough
