These days, relaxation seems more like a luxury than an everyday part of life. But taking time for yourself is important–mentally and physically. It helps you keep life's challenges in perspective and rejuvenates your body. Here are 15 easy and inexpensive ways to indulge yourself.
- Sit with a scent. Studies show that aromatherapy might be able to lift your mood. So light a scented candle, sit back and relax.
- Eat fresh. You'll be surprised how good you'll feel eating perfectly cooked, fresh tuna steak instead of something from a can.
- Eat chocolate. A cholesterol-lowering piece of sweet, dark chocolate is the perfect treat–for your heart as well as your taste buds.
- Laugh. Studies have shown that a good belly laugh improves blood flow and boosts your metabolism. So go ahead and laugh out loud.
- Kiss. Believe it or not, kissing your special someone can reduce stress, burn a couple calories and bring you two closer together.
- Go all the way. If a kiss is good, having sex might just be better for your blood pressure, immunity and self-esteem.
Stretch. Stretching increases flexibility, which makes you feel better, overall. It also eases stress.- Exercise. It boosts your mood, makes you sleep better, increases your energy and can even improve your sex life.
- Sleep. Getting a good night's sleep helps your body re-charge and improves memory.
- Enjoy a cup of tea. It tastes great and it helps your body handle stress. So go ahead, enjoy a cup of tea.
- Get a manicure. Your hands work hard. Having someone pamper them for a few minutes is one of life's little pleasures.
- Get a massage. Massage releases endorphins, lowers anxiety and feels great. A chair massage only costs about $1 per minute.
- Go outside. When life's busy, exploring nature will help you remember that there's more to it all than work.
- Eat exotic. Star fruit, acai berries and other exotics are chock full of antioxidants.
- Talk. A good chat with a good friend is good for the soul.
