We all need to give ourselves some TLC from time to time. Though pampering may ease our bodies and minds, sometimes it can break the bank. Not anymore!
iVillagers offered up a number of great ideas, from looking at a photo album to `driving nowhere.' Here are more of their creative - and cheap - tips:
1. Take a catnap
One thing I've learned from living with cats is that there's no bad time for a nap. And, no, you don't have to actually go to sleep. At the end of the workday, I wrap up a few loose ends, then Oscar the cat and I stretch out on the couch and relax. Sometimes I snooze; sometimes I don't. Relaxing and thinking pleasant thoughts are the key. Bad thoughts are banished. Such a nice way to make the transition from work to home.
vwhittem
2. Book it
My main pampering habit is reading books. Instant vacation!
marmidala
Making a 500+ calorie dessert and taking it to bed early with a good book - my favourite!
oceana2000
I take a bowl of popcorn, a glass of cold ginger ale and my books, and I lie in bed and read and eat. My dog Blue sits on the end of my bed, and we have a very peaceful afternoon.
cl-nicollej
3. Soak your cares away
My guilty pleasure is fruit-scented shower gels. I always have five to seven different ones to chose from.
12lbg66
A night of just pampering yourself is nice. Bubble baths with candlelight, a facial and a manicure, all with some soft music in the background, are very nice.
flowerpower99
4. Keep up appearances
I treat myself to a manicure twice a month. It's not too expensive, and then I get the additional boost from people telling me that I have great hands and nails. I would recommend that you take your nicest feature (hair, nails, eyes, lips, legs), indulge in a pampering session and enjoy everyone else's moment of envy.
elgata
My summer indulgence is getting a tan. Using a self-tanner, of course!
12lbg66
5. Fine wine, great music
My way of indulging myself is to buy a great bottle of Sauvignon or Pouilly Fuisse and sip it while listening to Miles Davis or an adagio by Albinoni. Very cheap, relaxing and sensuous.
romr
6. Get a good workout
Recently, in a heart-to-heart talk with my doctor about losing weight, I decided to join a karate class! She referred me to where she takes classes and has helped me feel comfortable in the class. It is a stretch financially, but I have decided that I would rather cut some of the frivolous spending I do and work up a tighter budget for the larger reward of this class. I feel so good after each class, not to mention watching the pounds disappear, that it is pampering to me!
catservant
After a hard day at work, I work out at the gym. It is really relaxing and fun (I never thought it would be). I then treat myself to a large chocolate ice cream.
todloc
7. Rub it out
I believe in the value of a good massage, whether weekly, biweekly or once a month. Yes, it can be an extravagance for some, but even if only once a month, you are taking care of your whole self - body, mind and spirit. I would be lost without it.
janseeley
8. Do an expensive thing inexpensively
Occasionally, I treat myself to the matinee movie (between 4pm and 6pm in my area) - it's cheaper than the evening show.
marmidala
9. Small indulgences are just as nice
Some low-cost things I have learned to appreciate are buying a soothing eye or foot gel at the Body Shop or buying the occasional lunch (cheaper than supper!). Another idea is going to a fancy cafe or restaurant for the ambiance, but only ordering the cheapest thing on the menu (flavoured coffee, iced tea, a soup, etc.)
starrynightdream
10. Keep it simple
I try to take a little time each day to be quiet; difficult with kids around, but it can be done. I just sit and reflect, and this is a luxury. I pamper myself by congratulating myself and acknowledging my achievements. I need to do this, as the self-esteem takes a battering from time to time. And I can pamper myself anytime I feel the need.
tl1122