9 ways to treat yourself that aren't food or shopping | HerCanberra

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9 ways to treat yourself that aren’t food or shopping

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It’s no secret that it’s important to have goals, especially when it comes to your fitness. It’s equally important to celebrate and reward yourself when you achieve a goal.

When we think of ‘treat yo’self’, we often think of indulgent food and shopping. But there are plenty of ways we can treat ourselves without subscribing to this standard, saving money and avoiding guilt along the way! Here are a few of our faves…

Pamper yourself

Pampering yourself doesn’t need to be expensive, yet it can carry a wealth of benefits. Indulging in a bubble bath, a nail-painting session, or even taking a bit of extra time to moisturise your legs may be the kind of pampering you need to redeem a good mood!

Get in flow

Whilst it can be extremely difficult at times, distracting yourself from frantic thoughts is a great way of improving your mood, and in turn treating yourself! Find something that requires a bit of concentration, like colouring in (adult colouring in books are a thing!). While you’ve been busy focusing on colouring inside the lines, you may have incidentally forced some of the negative thoughts from your mind!

Go for a drive

A change of scenery may be what you need to temper stress and anxiety levels. We’re pretty lucky here in Canberra to be surrounded by some beautiful countryside, which is easily accessible by car, so treat yourself to a little break.

Do something creative

Whether it’s photography, painting, writing or baking, there are plenty of ways you can channel your creative energy! Creating something for the sake of it will invoke a sense of accomplishment, and could even leave you with a killer product to be displayed on your mantelpiece!

Get outside and enjoy the sunlight

Whilst it’s best enjoyed in moderation, sunlight is still good for you. Vitamin D is crucial for good health, and a bit of sun exposure is the easiest way of getting it. Take yourself outside and enjoy the sensation of warm sunlight on your skin.

Watch something binge-worthy

Whilst binge watching TV or movies can leave us feeling lazy rather than relaxed, it’s important to let go of the guilt. If you don’t have time to test out a new movie, settle for an old favourite – the nostalgia might make you feel better!

Go for a hike, or just a stroll around the block

Getting amongst nature can be one of the best forms of medicine, and with a great selection of walks available, a hike is an excellent choice no matter what side of Canberra you live on. If you don’t have time to go for a hike, take time out for a casual stroll around the block or to the nearest shops. It’s amazing the things you notice when you’re out walking – take some time to stop and smell the roses, both literally and figuratively!

Read a book

It can be harder to get into than watching a movie or painting your nails, but becoming enthralled in a book can be a great way of treating yourself. Allowing yourself to be transported to another world can be life-changing, or mood-changing at the very least.

Get a massage

This one’s an obvious road to relaxation! Whilst a professional massage is probably going to be costly, it’s likely cheaper than a shopping spree. If you exercise frequently, a massage carries other benefits like its ability to relieve muscle tension. Most of all, it’s a fabulous way to reward your mind and body for the dedication and commitment that you’ve put towards achieving your goals.

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