The key to living a happier and stress-free life is self-care. When we think about unloading stress, we often think of activities that involve money. Thankfully, there are many beneficial and inexpensive ways to unwind. Sure, it can be rewarding to treat yourself to a spa day, shopping day, or to a nice lunch/dinner, but for those who aren’t in the position to do so, there are alternatives that work just as well.
Disclaimer: AD. This post is sponsored. For more information, please visit my Privacy Policy page.
Time Outdoors
As the weather gets cooler, it’s important that we take advantage of the sunshine while we still can. Spending just a few minutes outdoors is the quickest way to feel rejuvenated and energized. Getting fresh air helps to improve your mood and concentration.
I recommend packing a water bottle, snacks, and finding a quiet spot outdoors. This can be either in your backyard or at a local park. There are so many calming activities that you can enjoy outdoors. Some of my favourite activities include blogging, reading, listening to music, and exploring the neighbourhood. Other activities to consider include journaling, painting, taking photos, and meditating.
Playing Games
Growing up, I spent a considerable amount of time playing games on the computer. I frequented popular sites like Cartoon Network, YTV, and iWin. Since I got rid of my PC and started using a laptop, I noticed that these websites would cause my laptop to overheat. Since playing games was such an important outlet for me, I looked at alternative gaming options such as Nintendo Switch, but I wasn’t ready to invest just yet. Luckily, I found Plays.org.
Plays.org is a website that offers hundreds of free, fun, and educational games. It’s easy to navigate and there are new games added daily. I love how I can play straight from my computer with no downloads required or long loading times. These games are suitable for all ages. There are detailed instructions on how to play each game, so you can get the best gaming experience. There are also options for parents and teachers to play along with their kids and students!
Out of their huge selection of games, I particularly gravitated towards their pinball, solitaire, and cartoon section. They brought back nostalgic feelings because they were similar to the games I used to play growing up. My favorite game by far is Spider Solitaire. It’s a timeless classic that can be played at anytime. I was also really excited to see their Halloween section. I particularly enjoyed Clarence Scared Silly. It’s an arcade style game where you go through the park filled with haunted attractions.
Call a Loved One
We live in unpredictable times and could all use some company. Checking in with a friend or a loved one is a great way to feel connected again. Even though we are separated from each other, it doesn’t mean that we can’t partake in fun activities together!
Consider hosting a watch party through Netflix, Disney+, or Amazon Prime. It’s the perfect time to cozy up and watch some scary TV shows and movies together. I currently finished the highly popular Netflix show, Squid Game. If you or your loved ones aren’t familiar, I recommend checking it out. For more scary movie recommendations, visit my post titled 13 Scary Movies to Watch in October here.
If you and your loved ones have hobbies such as cooking or baking, you could both try a new recipe together through FaceTime, Skype, or Zoom! It’ll make for a perfect afternoon or evening. There are so many delicious fall inspired recipes to choose from, you’re bound to find one that you can’t wait to try.
Make yourself a priority, take breaks when you need to, and make time to do the things that you enjoy. I hope this post inspires you to check in on yourself and others! What’s your favorite inexpensive way to unwind? I’d love to know! For more posts like this, visit my wellness tag here.
With the weather cooling here in Phoenix, I am trying to get outside as much as possible. Being outside refreshes like nothing else can. These are all such great ideas, but your tip for remembering to call loved ones was probably the most important!
Thanks for reading Heidi!
Self-care is an important way to de-stress, and you are right; not everyone can afford a spa day. These inexpensive ways to unwind will be beneficial to many.
I love going outside to have a break from work or day-to-day stresses. It feels good to get away from it all, and the change of scenery also helps. Thank you for the recommendation for the free games; I’ll have to check that out.
Calling a loved one is such a good idea, as talking can help if you feel stressed. A watch party sounds perfect as well; I might recommend that to some friends.
Thank you for sharing. 😊
I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed this post and will recommend it to others! Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment!
Great ideas! I love the idea of getting outside more because once it becomes winter, you want to feel like you’re ready to hibernate. Last winter, I lived in an apartment with a beautiful sunny balcony, so I would put on my coat and drink my coffee out there when it was sunny, until it got much too cold. So energizing!
That sounds so lovely! Nothing beats a hot cup of coffee and some sunshine! Thanks for reading!
Love your creative suggestions for relaxing! Chatting with friends is a great way to unwind and catch up. Plays sounds like a great place to find interesting solo games; I love solitaire!
Thanks for sharing. 🙂
They’ve got a great selection of solo games! And nothing beats solitaire! Thanks for reading Jaya!
I would enjoy a watch party. You are right about any time spent outdoors.
Thanks for reading Jamie!
Fab suggestions! I love getting outside – my friends and I actually went on a walk this afternoon to cheer ourselves up – and a call from my best friend or boyfriend never fails to make me smile! Thank you so much for sharing x
Sounds like you and your friends had a great afternoon! Thanks for reading Ceri!
This is a great list and agree with you that self care is essential. Time outdoor is essential and you’re right about taking advantage of dry weather days. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for reading Jodie!
These are some great ways to relax and feel calm. It doesn’t have to cost anything. I like to chat to my family at home or my partner daily. Thank you for sharing your suggestions.
Lauren – http://www.bournemouthgirl.com
Catching up is a great way to unwind! Thanks for reading Lauren!
Calling my family is definitely one of my favourite things! Recently, I’ve been loving going on a walk with a hot chocolate in my travel mug 😍
Ahh I love that idea! That sounds wonderful! Thanks for reading Caroline!
Spending time outdoors is a great way to unwind and relax, and I love going for a walk after spending lots of time at the computer x
Spending time outdoors is a great way to take a break! Thanks for reading!
These are such great suggestions! I’ve had an overwhelming couple of weeks and am really needing to take time to unwind, so this was a great reminder. And it’s so great these are inexpensive too. 🙂
I hope you have a relaxing weekend and get to unwind! Thanks for reading Alison!
Love this, blog post. Walks outdoors are so positive, I always feel better after a walk.
Thanks for sharing 😊
It’s definitely a great mood booster! Thanks for reading!