Four Easy, Free Self-Care Activities

Self-care is a daily exercise – one that is free, but priceless. 

– Dr. Zoe Shaw

This quote so perfectly sums up our need for self-care.  We need to practice self-care daily to live at our highest potential.  The best thing about self-care is that it costs us nothing in most cases, but is priceless for our well-being.

I thought I would share some free forms of self-care with you so that you can practice today.  There are paid apps for self-care, some of which I use.  However, there is no need to buy a subscription when you are starting.  Let’s get started with my favorite, easy, and free self-care methods.

Mindful Breathing

Mindful breathing is key to emotional and physical well-being.  If you are unsure how to mindfully breathe, check it out on Insight Timer (a free app).  Start with just a few minutes until you get better at it.  My favorite mindful breathing practice is square breathing which you can find on Insight Timer by searching.

Gratitude

One of my favorite forms of self-care is gratitude.  I like to name 3-5 things I am grateful for every day.  You can think of the things you are grateful for or you can write them down.  

I do this in a notebook I have designated as my gratitude journal.  I like to look back on all of the wonderful things that have happened in my life when I am feeling blue or anxious.

Digital Detox

I have the most trouble executing digital detoxes, and I have a feeling that you do as well.  But, hear me out.  The reward is so worth the discomfort of feeling FOMO.  If you feel that you cannot go a whole day, why not start off with an hour in the morning or just before bed?

I am in need of a digital detox as I write this, so I am going to place my phone and tablet in the car for an hour and pretend that I left them there by accident.  Maybe you can try this as well even though it is challenging.  

I have a relative who gave up social media a year ago, and they say it has been a game-changer for them.  They miss the cute pictures of the kiddos, but they just ask friends and family to text them some pictures.  

I tried this and failed quickly, but I may try again because I am intrigued by the positive changes it could have in my life.

Nature Walks

When I am feeling frazzled, a walk is the ticket to instantly centering myself.  I love a wooded walk, but walking in a garden will also do.  The key is to be fully present when you go on your walk.  Bonus points for going somewhere you haven’t been before.

Now that I have shared four easy and free self-care activities, you are ready to start.  Which activities will you do first?