We all love our children. They are the little lights of our lives but sometimes…it’s a lot. So, I am giving you permission, fellow Supermoms, to take some time for yourself. Whether it’s a short 5 minutes in your car to eat a snack by yourself or doing yoga on the beach, you are allowed to pause and breathe. You and your family will be better off for it. Maria Barratta Ph.D, LCSW states “Self-care, in essence, is the mindful taking time to pay attention to you, not in a narcissistic way, but in a way that ensures that you are being cared for by you.” 

Here are 22 self-care ideas that are also budget-friendly:

1. Take a stroll in a neighborhood with architecture you love
2. Make yourself a meal that your family wouldn’t necessarily enjoy
3. Give yourself a manicure or pedicure
4. Read a book you love again
5. Call a friend you haven’t actually talked to in a while (texting doesn’t count)
6. Make yourself a face mask and use it (see recipes below)
7. Go to a movie you want to see by yourself
8. Hold a wine tasting with friends at your house (everyone brings a bottle to share)
9. Find a free admission day at a local museum 
10. Put on your favorite album/musician/streaming station and have a dance party in your living room
11. Buy a comfy new pair of pajamas
12. Go to your favorite store/mall/shopping area and just browse
13. Take a picnic to your favorite park
14. Write in a journal or color
15. Rearrange furniture or room to give you a new perspective
16. Go through your closet and donate items to a charity for your choice
17. Grab a cup of coffee/tea and listen to a podcast
18. Watch a stand-up comedy special on the streaming platform of your choice 
19. Go to the library
20. Do some yoga (yogawithadriene.com is a great source)
21. Take a nap
22. Make a rice sock heating pad to relieve some tension

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Jasmine Root grew up in Monterey County. She is a graduate of Watsonville High, San Francisco State University, and Middlebury Institute of International Studies. Jasmine is now pursuing a Master’s Degree in Special Education. She resides with her husband, son, and 8 pets in Salinas.