When things were feeling a little hectic leading up to my wedding day (not that anyone other than hubby knew about it) I remember turning to google to find out 'how to de-stress before the big day'. What I found was not in the least bit surprising, yet I was a little disappointed by the money I would need to spend to simply relax (Debt = Stress... hello!?). And so today I have come up with 5 budget friendly ways to de-stress. DIY style...
Have a Girls Night In (or out!)
You know how this goes. Your favourite ladies, check. Cheapo nibbles, check. Nail polish and toe separators, check. Sex and the City (all of them), Confessions of a Shopaholic, Bridesmaids, The Notebook and P.S I love you, check. Cyndi Lauper, Kylie Minogue, Madonna, check. Girls just want to have fun... so why not make a night of it?
Alternatively go out to a cheerfully cheap byo restaurant, find a cosy corner and have a good ole catch up!
Have a Bath
I'm not talking about an in and out, body wash under the tap (guilty!) 5 minute soak.
I'm talking about lighting candles, sorting out some tunes, even some meditation music (I have a great 10 minute FREE mediation phone app I listen to most Saturday nights), then get your biggest fluffiest towel, some pretty soap and get some YOU time in the tub. Oh and why not pop on a DIY face mask for some extra special downtime, find four fab recipes here.
Go Camping
Nature can be relaxing, but it's the idea of packing up the truck with nothing more than a tent, sleeping bags, a chilly bin, and a bottle of red wine that really gets me going.
There is something liberating about sneaking away for a mini break, especially when it involves sand, sea, fireside snuggles and the odd curious possum (or husband!) Bliss.
Spend time with Animals
If you have some, make some time to hang out. Animals are amazingly therapeutic, and will never judge your current state of being (I love that!) If you don't own any, then find some to hang out with. Offer to take a friends dog for a walk, go offer your services at the SPCA, or simply visit your local animal park.
Animals are the perfect reminder that the simple things in life are beautiful... and that love is unconditional.
Watch the Sunset (or Sunrise)
This goes hand in hand with the camping. Again with the nooky, again with the nature... and again with remembering that the simple things in life are beautiful.
Mother nature rules, and the sight of the sun rising, or the sun setting is always magical. Make it more special with blankets, hot drinks with marshmallows (go the flask!) and of course your soul mate (or soul sisters!)
Happy relaxing beautiful people xox
