Written by : Ica Lim

Who says self-love should be expensive? Now, indulgence often comes with a price but there are ways to keep yourself in tip-top shape on a budget. They may be small but the rewards definitely scream otherwise. 

Let’s dive into many budget-friendly ways you can treat yourself a little better with these tips!

Prepare breakfast in bed.

In frame : @jesssangg_ in Pokee Bodysuit in Olive

Think about the last time you had a proper start to your day. The morning sun teasing through your windows while you sip on your hot coffee. If this sounds like a perfect set-up to you, take your early morning ritual to another level with breakfast in bed! 

It may take a little effort but a simple breakfast of your choice can be prepared in ways that can make the most important meal of the day a lot more rewarding. You can even purchase a breakfast tray to amplify the experience. Trust us, a good breakfast can set a good mood for the rest of the day. 

Check on your friends.

In frame : @millicentsilvia in Diana Tank in Saint, @asyerabarty in Kimmy Tank in Mauve

You know you have the best friends when they stick by you every step of the way. With all the good they bring to your life, you might want to think about how often you are present in theirs. While this tip may cost a portion of your social battery, you treat yourself to great conversations with the people you care so deeply about. 

Indulge in dessert. 

In frame : @stephanieee in Dickens Bodysuit in Olive, @ribkapriskila in Jen Tank in Cloudy

Whether it’s from a nice cafe downtown or a local bakery, there will always be room for dessert. Who says you can only eat them after a big meal? Treat yourself to a sweet treat you’ve been eyeing for quite some time. We all know you deserve it! 

Get a massage. 

While this option is not always cheap, a few hours of complete serenity and relaxation are definitely worth every penny. Don’t worry, there are ways to make this totally budget-friendly! Surf the internet for spas that offer great discounts and packages. Bring a friend with you to double the fun! 

Purchase cheap but quirky items online! 

We all need a little comic relief now and then. One of the best fixes is a quirky find on the internet. Surf through several online stores for quirky yet funny items that are surprisingly useful. A Hogwarts-themed journal perhaps or an oversized teddy bear to cuddle with are just a few examples to add to your list. 

Grow plants or buy fresh flowers. 

Fresh and living decor around your home can be a rewarding hobby in the long run. If you’re a newbie to the green thumb lifestyle, some research will go a long way. You can start with smaller indoor plants to get you started. You’ll find it extra rewarding when they grow thanks to your tender love and care. Think of it as an offshoot to caring and paying extra attention to yourself! 

Make the most out of happy hour. 

In frame : @mernajacellynetjen in Kimmy Tank in Venom

Care for a little adventure around town? Even if it’s just indoors, a new bustling food hub may be serving their best-sellers with great discounts! Better yet, check if there are bars open to serve you and make the most out of their happy hour offers. A meal fit for two for the price of one? Now that’s a steal! 

Visit local museums or parks. 

In frame : @jasmineaswan in Ivy One Sleeve in Saint, @saratirto in Kimmy Tank in Venom

Take a trip down a cultural lane and replenish your thirst for knowledge by visiting your local museums or parks. Learning something new is almost always a rewarding experience. Whether it’s an art museum or historical landmark, take advantage of the outdoors and the intellectual experience it offers. 

Buy an advanced colouring book. 

If you’re not sure what an advanced colouring book is, think of it as pages and pages of assorted patterns across different difficulty levels. Grab a set of coloured pencils and shade the stress away! Studies show that these intricate colouring books are akin to meditation. With a little patience in tow, you’ll soon be lured into a focused yet colourful state for the next hour or so!