There is so much talk about “self care” these days. I wholeheartedly agree that it’s vital and extremely important – especially for those who are also taking care of others in addition to themselves. The most difficult part is that at times it seems the only things we are told will help soothe us and our tired minds and bodies seem out of reach or too extravagant/ pricey. A tropical vacation, spa day, new shoes or clothes, for example. I’d like to suggest a few of my simple pleasures that are not going to require refinancing your house to bring a sense of calm and rejuvenation. As a for former Stay at Home Mom of 4 with a husband that travels internationally, I had to be creative when I needed comfort and rest. I hope this list may give you an idea or two of ways that you can promote a sense of serenity in the midst of a chaotic situation or schedule. These are basic things that can help us feel relaxed , bring a smile or allow us to take a small break and find perspective – nothing huge, but highly effective!

• This may seem like a silly idea to you – but for me, it’s a must! I always have some type of fun or meaningful screensaver on my phone. Seriously, how many times do we look at our phone during the day? For me, it’s a mood lifter when I see a favorite family pic, scripture verse or holiday graphic when I grab my phone. I even have a pinterest board full of options so I can change it as many times as I’d like. I currently have an adorable pumpkin cartoon as my saver and it always makes me smile when I see it. Free, and I love it! (I will add the picture below so you can enjoy the cuteness, too!)
• This a no brainer for me – I love coffee and drink water all day long, too – so it matters what cup I am using… 🙂 I have a few favorite coffee mugs that I have owned for more than 30 years. Yes, sounds crazy, but when I drink from them, whatever I am drinking tastes even better – is that a thing?! I also have several travel mugs that are special to me – whether they bring back memories of the person that gave them to me, or just do a kick a$$ job of keeping my drink cold – using that mug always makes me happy.
• Here is another basic idea that can be picked up anytime you are at the grocery store. I absolutely love fresh flowers. Buying a small $8 bouquet of yellow daisies (my fave!) will keep me smiling for days. Don’t wait for someone else to buy you flowers – do it for yourself! Bonus, if your handsome husband walks in with them as a surprise though!
• Music – we all know that music has a way of shifting our mood. I have a playlist of my very favorite songs for this reason. I will play it whenever I need a boost – or when I’m exercising, cleaning, knitting – just about anytime. Make yourself a playlist of your faves – fast and slow, old and new … put it all on one list and enjoy!
• Lotion and candles – these are both low budget essentials that I keep available all year long. I absolutely LOVE for things to smell good – my favorites are vanilla, cinnamon and maple for candles. My poor husband has been tricked many times as he returns home and expects some delicious baked good on the counter, and is disappointed to see a lit candle on the table instead. Wearing a pretty scent is also a mood lifter for me. At Kroger last week, the cashier told me I smelled like a marshmallow – that made me laugh, I mean, there are worse things I could smell like, right?!
• Pillow – think for a minute how long we are in bed each day – at least 6 hours, hopefully more. Now think about your pillow. Do you like it ? How old is it – if you say 30 years old, I will gag. We should all have a clean, supportive pillow that gives us a soft place to lay our heads each night and sleep away the weariness of our days. There are so many great options out there right now – some more expensive then others, but well worth it in my eyes. I have a memory foam pillow that I literally think about during the days and sometimes count the hours until we meet again (thank you, perimenopause!). Going to sleep should bring you a sense of peace and an amazing pillow might help!

Ok friends – please do me a favor and give me some of your basic, affordable ideas that bring you joy. There is never enough joy and calm in the world – I can’t wait to hear YOUR suggestions!