If you’re feeling tired, demotivated, or otherwise unwell, you may benefit from a little self-care. Practicing self-care is essential for living an enjoyable and fulfilling life. Unfortunately, many of us prioritize the needs of others at the expense of our own health. However, it can be easy to fit self-care into your existing schedule, no matter how little time you have. It doesn’t have to cost much, either. Here are some budget-friendly ways to incorporate self-care into your busy life.

 

Take a Staycation

First, take a break. Too many of us power through life without taking time out for ourselves. In fact, Marketplace reports that over half of Americans don’t take all of their paid vacation days! Time for rest is important for re-energizing your body and mind, but you don’t have to spend good money on a pricey getaway. A staycation — a vacation where you get to relax in the comfort of your own city — can be cheaper, more carefree, and just as fun as a trip out of town.

If you want to go the extra mile, rent a vacation home nearby so you can get away from your regular life obligations and the looming threat of housework. Consider booking a Miami rental property near the attractions and activities that you want to enjoy during your time off. Many vacation rental companies, such as Turnkey, can help you find a great home — whether it’s just you or a large group — and ensure you’re getting a rental that’s safe, secure, and clean.

 

Work Out Efficiently

While rest is important for our well-being, so is getting moving. Regular physical activity is great for physical and mental health, reducing stress, boosting brain power, and improving your sleep. Fortunately, you don’t need much in the way of time or money to enjoy these benefits.

There are many ways to fit physical activity into a busy schedule. Believe it or not, you don’t have to work out for an hour every day to see results. Whatever amount of time you have is enough for a beneficial exercise session. Quick and speedy home workouts can be very effective, and you don’t even need to pay for a gym membership or any home equipment. It’s important to choose types of physical activity that you enjoy since this will motivate you to jump into a quick workout whenever you have some spare time in your day. Try efficient workouts like high-intensity interval training (HIIT), Tabata, bodyweight circuits, and running.

 

Eat More Mindfully

Being conscious about what you’re eating is an easy way to cut back on unhealthy foods and incorporate more nutrition into your diet. This can also help you eat smaller portions, which is great if you’re trying to lose weight! To get started eating more mindfully, HuffPost Wellness recommends turning off your devices during meals and paying attention to the flavors and textures you are experiencing. It’s also a good idea to set your fork down between bites.

While many people think eating healthy is expensive and time-consuming, nothing could be further from the truth. There are several ways to save money on nutritional purchases; for example, buy local, shop in-season produce, and replace animal proteins with various plant-based options. Staples like beans and rice can be bought in bulk for additional savings. Cooking for yourself is much more affordable than ordering takeout and buying ready-made meals. Plus, taking the time to prepare a nourishing meal for yourself is an act of self-care on its own. If you’re strapped for time, the Everygirl recommends meal-prepping on the weekends and searching for quick recipes that come together with just a few healthy ingredients.

Prioritizing self-care is one of the best steps you can take toward a happy and healthy lifestyle. If you’re used to putting others ahead of yourself, it can feel awkward — and even a little selfish — to dedicate time for yourself. Always remember that self-care is an ongoing process that can take some getting used to. So, find some small ways to work self-care into your existing schedule and you’ll notice the benefits before you know it.