Honestly, how often have you had one of those moments where you though I deserve this as you were standing in front of a highly over-priced bag eyeing it because you needed a little pick me up? I am all to familiar with that feeling, it’s the main reason why I have a whole shelf full of books with pretty covers that I’ve never read. It’s easy to use “retail therapy” as a method of relaxation. But how about we skip the retail therapy today and relax without spending money?
Here are six great ways to accomplish that:
Exercise (or Just Stretch)
You’d be surprised how far a little exercise and stretching can go. Exercising produces endorphins that help you to relax, calm nerves and feel that instant tiny bit healthier. Not to mention it generally makes you feel good about yourself.
Exercising or stretching can serve both to heighten your mood and give you more energy. Plus it could even contribute to any fitness-related long-term goal you have. Exercise is a great way to relax without spending money.
Skip the Junk Food
Junk food is never a good relaxation option. I know it seems like it. I know in the moment you’re looking at that salty bag of chips and thinking I will feel so much better if I just have a bit. But then “a bit” turns into a lot and suddenly you’re feeling significantly worse about yourself.
Eating bad food only makes you think you’re feeling more relaxed, until you aren’t. Skipping the junk food can definitely help you relax without spending money.
Don’t Eat on the Go
My mother used to get on me about both eating on the go and eating while standing. Now, I’m not sure if this is an old wives table, but eating while you’re on your way to the office or to stick it to Connie at the team meeting is not helping you relax.
Read
Reading is my personal go-to when it comes to relaxing. Specifically, I aim for fiction as far as my relaxing reading list goes.
Reading can be one of the best ways to relax without spending money because it can take you to far away places and turn your brain off for a little while. I read every night right before bed and you’d be surprised how well it works in helping you relax.
Listen To Music
Music is a great way to relax without spending money. Or if you’re me, perhaps you prefer podcasts? Whatever you fancy for your audio-based preferences, chances are that can help you relax. And probably for a much longer time than buying something would.
Separate Yourself From Work
This sounds easy, in theory, but a lot of us find it hard to do. That said one of the best ways to relax without spending money.
It’s incredibly important that we all take breaks and those of us that don’t do it tend to get more frustrated and less relaxed. But putting a clear line around your work and personal lives can significantly alter your regular mood.
How do you relax without spending money? Share below in the comments!
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Tae started out as a journalist before following the money into the corporate world. But it turns out that the grass isn’t always greener and now you can find her spending most of her time writing about all the things she loves. Namely, money, travel and business with a hefty dose of self-deprecating humor. She is a podcast fanatic, blogging aficionado and loves to find new ways to turn passions into cold hard cash!