One’s college years are often associated with long nights at the library, copious amounts of studying, sleep deprivation and what I like to call “ballin’ on a budget.” With student loans and the monthly rent we all dread dangling over our heads, it’s safe to say these may just be the “poorest” years of our lives. However, stressful weeks call for highly deserved relaxation time and simple ways to treat yourself! This thought brought me to assemble a list that contains inexpensive or free ideas that allow your mind to rest and your body to be happy. Here are five things you can do to to relax and have fun on a budget:
1. Have A Spa Day...At Home
You don’t have to visit a spa in the city and buy overpriced services when you can have just as much fun at home by yourself or with a couple of girlfriends. Crawl into a candlelit bubble bath, pour a glass of wine or tea and relax your overworked muscles. My roommates and I are obsessed with DIY face masks because most all of the ingredients are found in our pantry and fridge. We’ve also come across effective teeth whitening remedies and hair masks that don’t cost a dime when the entire recipe can be made from scratch. It’s amazing how a little freshening up of your face, hair and body can make you make feel like a new person!
2. Host A Movie Marathon With Your Besties
Get comfy, invite whoever and pop some buttery popcorn. I’m totally not ashamed to admit that my girls and I have been turning weekends into movie marathons and we love it. Whether it be old Disney films, Harry Potter, or chick flicks, you can’t go wrong re-watching some of your favorites (Mean Girls is a must, duh). Another idea is to build a cozy sheet fort with your significant other and watch a sappy romance...now that’s my kind of date.
3. Wake And Bake...literally
News flash: there doesn’t have to be a special occasion for cupcakes, cookies or brownies. Whether you’re a gourmet baker or could use a little practice, look up some delicious recipes and fun ways to decorate your pastries. Then, delightfully surprise your family, friends or boyfriend with a homemade treat! No matter the appearance or taste, they’ll know it was made from love.
4. Get Artsy Fartsy
It’s so refreshing to let your creative side wander every now and then. Sit outside, turn on music that inspires you and get out some paint. I personally love to sit out on my back porch, listen to some reggae and go to town with water colors or oil pastels. Art supplies aren’t always cheap so substitute a canvas with a firm piece of cardboard or even plank wood that you can find on the street. Let your artwork serve as fresh décor for your living space or even as a holiday gift!
5. Thrift/Consignment Shop
To all my fellow fashionistas: you can satisfy your shopping needs without blowing your whole paycheck. It can be tempting to buy clothing and accessories at full price, especially when you live in a city such as Charleston. However, it’s a fun challenge to recreate expensive looks you love while you're shopping in stores like Goodwill and other local thrift shops. I can honestly say some of my most complemented outfits cost me a total of $10.00. I guess Macklemore knew what he was talking about after all.
Turns out, you really can keep it simple in regards to treating yourself. Not only will your body and mind want to thank you, but your wallet will too!
