There are times when we all need a gift; maybe we feel stressed, unappreciated, too tired. In these moments, we may long for something indulgent that will help us cope with a problem, calm us down, help us better manage stress, or provide us with a reward.
Let’s identify some lovely treats that can make us feel good, positive, while relieving stress; all without a single calorie in sight!
- Buy a bouquet of flowers and remember, even men like flowers! Place them somewhere unexpected, like the hallway, the hallway, or the bathroom, so that when you walk into that room, you’ll smile.
- Freshly laundered sheets are at the top of most people’s gift lists. Add a few drops of essential oils to the final rinse cycle and enjoy a delicious treat before bed. They smell wonderful and help you sleep better.
- Put yourself in your agenda and go to that appointment. Breaks are a great way to manage stress. Schedule some ‘me time’ and enjoy the opportunity for some peace, quiet and a short break.
- Turn exercise into fun. Going for a walk, playing a game of football outside, or playing rounders can be a lovely way to spend an hour or so. Exercise together and enjoy your relationships.
- Listen to music. Browse your back catalog and rediscover tracks you haven’t heard in a long time. Enjoy pulling out your old vinyl tracks and reminiscing.
- Book a massage, facial or manicure. Invest a little time and money in a delicious treat. Feel better, more confident and well while positively investing in yourself.
- Spend a nostalgic hour or two going through old photographs, diaries, and letters. Have a laugh, cry or a sad smile about the past.
- Get up early and watch the sun rise. Go for a walk, jog or enjoy some yoga as the sun rises and few people are around. It is a great way to start the day in peace.
- Refresh your home with bright cushions, prints and embellishments and invest in your cozy haven. You might enjoy shopping for some cheap, quirky items at your local market or vintage stores.
- Candlelight is enchanting at night, transforming a room into a comfortable and relaxed space. Turn them on even when you’re alone.
- Sit down and read a book, poetry, a magazine. You can easily spend an absorbing hour or so. Or catch up on those movies you shot but never found time to watch.
- Spend an hour in the garden. A little effort can introduce color, fresh produce, and a place to relax, whether alone or with friends and family.
- Arrange to go for a walk or join mailing lists for free concerts, exhibits and entertainment. Invite your friends and improve your social life.
- Relax in the bathroom with those scented candles you’ve been saving for a special occasion. Play relaxing music.
- A short 20-minute nap can help you de-stress, lift your spirits, and revitalize you for the rest of the day.
- Allow time to call a friend. Brew a beer or pour yourself a drink and catch up on each other’s news while you reconnect.
Treats added each day can provide rewards and help you better manage stress. When you feel relaxed, calm, and more positive about yourself, you eliminate the need for excess caffeine, alcohol, sugar, and toxic quick fixes.
