It’s cold, it’s dark (but getting lighter!) and we’re locked at home. While I do love a good body scrub, or cheeky face mask, looking after yourself doesn’t have to be physical, and it doesn’t really have to cost any money.
Here are a couple handful of things that I like to do to chill or just feel more chill during lockdown.
Make a warming meal
There’s nothing like a delicious (often carby) meal to make you feel looked after. Maybe try a new recipe, or stick to an old classic. I love an up-beat playlist or a good podcast in the background. If you’re like me, you’ll want to set the table all fancy like. Then light a candle (or 5) and enjoy your meal with others, or by yourself.
Have a spring clean
Tidy that pantry you’ve been meaning to sort for like, ever. Hoover your carpet, wash your cushion covers, change them bed-sheets. Clutter makes me feel like I’m suffocating a little, like my entire life is in a shambles. It may not be spring yet, but doing a thorough clean often makes me feel refreshed. Like a whole, fresh new human.
Redecorate
Even If your space is rented, there are ways to make your home/room feel more homely. Just to mix things up a little. Who doesn’t love a little makeover. I really enjoy moving things around a little and experimenting with decor.
Have a movie night
And by movie I mean TV. Just sit and watch TV, and snack- It’s a little treat after all. Whether ‘healthy’ or ‘unhealthy’, all snacks are welcome on the self-care evening. Some personal favourites of mine include popcorn (a classic), tortillas with a bit of homemade guacamole, grapes, wine (white zinfandel) or some chocolate of any description.
Have a games night
Online, or with whoever you happen to live with. Whip out the monopoly, or jenga, wipe off the dust and blow off some steam. A personal favourite of mine currently is the online pictionary game ‘drawasaurus’. But any fun game will do. And also many snacks (surprise surprise).
Read a book
Yes, one of my favourite pastimes is reading (hence the book club). I will read almost anything, but for the purpose of relaxation, I usually reach for contemporary fiction. And to top it all off, smelly candles and some vibey music in the background.
Catch up with friends
Check in with your loved ones. Having a long conversation about a bit of everything, and nothing at the same time is always a good shout. Arrange a group chat with friends or a phone call with someone you’ve not seen in a while.
Get some flowers
Maybe not everyone will be able to relate, but having flowers indoors always brightens up the day a little, especially because we’re constantly indoors. Usually I wait until I see them on sale (lol) and buy a few bunches.
Journal
A bit of word vomit can be helpful. I could write pages about what I think, hope, regret, detest, the list goes on. I find it helps me think a little clearer on days where I feel a little lost, or even, when I feel inspired. Journal, meditate, pray or all three- whatever floats your boat.
Sort out your cash
Money can be source of anxiety, especially when you’re young and have a strong affinity for online shopping, and in-person shopping, and post-work drinks and day-trips. A finance planner either on excel or in a book really helps me to sort out budgets, expenses, savings etc. Seeing it all down, helps me feel a little more organised/less likely to overspend.
Twenty to a hundred 