There are times when we all need a gift; maybe we feel stressed, unappreciated, too tired. At these times, we may long for something indulgent to help us cope with a problem, calm us down, help us manage stress better, 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 calorie in sight!
- Buy a bouquet of flowers and remember, even men like flowers! Place them somewhere unexpected, like the hallway, landing, or bathroom, so 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 in the final rinse cycle and enjoy a delicious bedtime treat. They smell wonderful and help you sleep better.
- Get on 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 soccer 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. Spend a little time and money on a delicious treat. Feel better, more confident and good while making a positive investment in yourself.
- Spend a nostalgic hour or two going through old photographs, journals, 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 indulge in some yoga while the sun is rising and few people are around. It is a great way to start the day in peace.
- Freshen up your home with bright cushions, prints and embellishments and invest in your cozy haven. You might enjoy shopping for some inexpensive, 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 recorded but never found time to watch.
- Spend an hour in the garden. A little effort can introduce colour, 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 de-stress, lift your spirits, and revitalize you for the rest of the day.
- Leave time to call a friend. Brew a beer or pour yourself a drink and catch up on each other’s news as you reconnect.
Treats that are incorporated 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.