by: Isabella Sarlija

In recent years, our commitment to bettering ourselves through wellness has grown exponentially. With self-care on the rise, it can sometimes seem like a gimmick that’s in vogue and sellable. No, you do not need to turn an area of your apartment into a spa (although that does help sometimes). We are here to remind you that there are things you can do right now, product-free, that will help you to ease your mind and body into a comfortable state of being. Here are a few ways we practice self-care for the low price of free.

Write it Out 

Let it all out onto paper––it’s a great form of self-care and not only cathartic. Stream of consciousness journaling helps us better understand how we’re feeling and where these emotions are coming from. Gratitude journaling is also helpful; it reminds us that there are so many things going right, and there’s no reason to ruminate on things going wrong.

Meditate

There is nothing as soothing as a mind-clearing and energy-cleansing meditation break. If you’re new to meditation and not sure where to start, try free trial apps such as headspace and clam

Phone a Friend 

No face mask or glass of wine as self-care compares to the invaluable friendships in our lives. Call a friend for a deep and meaningful conversation. But do not unload all of your worries onto them immediately; be gentle, and first make sure that they are in the proper headspace to provide you with an open ear.

Soak Up Your Environment

Walks through nature are grounding because they remind us that we’re all human and a part of this crazy ecosystem spinning around the sun. It reminds us that problems are simply situations looking for solutions. There’s no need to worry. 

Play Some Tunes

Listen to a playlist that brings you to your self-care happy place .Belt out your favorite lyrics while you’re at it.