Massages and Bubble Baths: Ten Inexpensive Ways to Spoil Yourself

If you end the day with aching muscles and a slight headache chances are you aren't taking care of yourself. I'm not talking about going to the doctor or taking your vitamins here, I'm talking about finding time to relax and recharge yourself. Women are especially neglectful of themselves because they tend to put everyone else first. Spoiling doesn't have to mean extravagant shopping sprees or weekends at the spa. Just taking a little time for yourself here and there can do wonders for you.

The truth is a worn out and grumpy person is no fun for anyone. Everyone needs time to let their minds settle and to release the stress we accumulate each day. You may feel bad about asking for time alone but in the end it works out great for everyone. Think about it. If you are calm, relaxed and happy you will be less stressed and more fun to be around!

If you have a hard time finding time for yourself because you have kids, let your husband know you need a little time to yourself each day or at least every other day. If you aren't married find a friend or relative with kids and ask them to help you out. You might try offering to occupy their children for a few hours twice a week if they will do the same for you.

Bath

Everyone knows this one but no one takes the time to do it. I'm not talking about taking a quick bath with the kids playing next to the tub. I'm talking about a long, hot bubble bath complete with candles and a great book. Take your time, enjoy the soak and you will step out of the tub a happier person.

Scents

Surround yourself with scents. Scents can invigorate you (try citrus) or relax you (try lavender) whether you wear them or use them around your house. When you step out of that lovely bubble bath slather your skin with your favorite scented lotion and use a body fragrance spray that matches. Don't forget to do this after your daily shower. Take the extra five minutes to baby yourself. Not only will the scent make you feel wonderful your skin will thank you. Place air fresheners around your house and buy some linen spray. I recently discovered linen spray and I don't know how I lived without it. You spritz your sheets at night before you lay down. It's heavenly!

Take a Walk

Nothing clears the muddled mind better than a walk. Even if you can only go around the block a few times you should just go! The exercise is good for you and you can use the time to clear out your most troubling thoughts. I can't say I've solved a lot of my problems while walking but it sure helps me to put them into perspective.

Massage

You can always go and get a massage. Once a week or once a month and you will begin to feel much better and more relaxed. Besides the typical muscle massage you can try a deep tissue massage. This type goes deeper into your system to relieve stubborn chronic pains that ordinary massages don't touch. Massages can be a bit pricey. If it's out of your budget save a bit each week and go monthly. It's worth it!

Manicure/Pedicure/Facial

Pick one or do all of them. If you can't afford to go out for these you can do them at home with a girlfriend.

Get a Hobby

Sounds simple enough but so many people neglect to do this for themselves. Think of something you have always wanted to do and do it. Take a camera with you on your walks and snap pictures. Buy a starter kit for scrap booking if you've always wanted to try it. Hobbies give us a sense of accomplishment and help with personal well-being. It really is OK to have your own interests that don't involve your husband or your children. If you aren't sure what you might like to do check with your local community college. They quite often have very inexpensive classes for photography, writing and many other hobbies.

Start a Flower Garden

Gardening is much like walking; it relieves stress and gives you time to clear your head. Flowers can attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your yard and fresh cut flowers bring a sense of peace to any home. If you can't construct an entire garden try a small planter outside one or two of your windows.

Hang Out with the Girls

Every woman needs girlfriends! As much as we love our husbands they can't be everything we need. Girlfriends listen, love you and will put up with just about anything you do. Get together once a week or more often if you can. Even if you only sit together in the back yard sipping lemonade for an hour or two it will do wonders for your soul.

Take Your Husband on a Date

Once we marry we forget all about romance. Unless you got lucky enough to marry that rare gem that remembers romance should continue after the vows, you may have to let him know you still need it. Find a babysitter for the kids and go see a movie. Go out to eat or just go for a long ride in the country together.

Keep a Diary

Hash out your thoughts in a journal and do it daily. Writing things down has always helped me view my problems or feelings from a whole new angle. This works a lot like writing a letter you never send. It felt good to write it even if no one ever reads it.