40 Free or Cheap Joy and Self-Care Ideas

Take a slow walk and notice 5 beautiful things
Read one chapter of a book just for fun
Brew a cup of tea or coffee and drink it without multitasking
Watch the sunrise or sunset
Sit outside for 10 minutes and breathe deeply
Listen to your favorite worship or uplifting song
Declutter one small area (a drawer, purse, or shelf)
Text someone a word of encouragement
Write down 3 things you’re grateful for
Light a candle and pray for peace in your home
Stretch for 5 minutes
Read one Psalm aloud
Take a warm bath or shower and let your mind rest
Sit in silence for 3 minutes
Step outside barefoot and feel the ground
Do one small creative thing (doodle, paint, knit, etc.)
Drink a full glass of water slowly
Make a simple snack plate of fruit or veggies
Open a window and let fresh air in
Do a “brain dump” of everything on your mind
Watch something that makes you laugh
Put on a comfy outfit you love
Re-read a favorite Bible verse
Sit in your parked car and enjoy the quiet
Massage your hands with lotion
Take a 20-minute nap
Unfollow one stressful social media account
Step away from your phone for 30 minutes
Organize your purse
Do a 10-minute tidy
Make a gratitude list for this season of life
Write a kind note to yourself
Pick a flower or bring a leaf inside
Sing your favorite hymn or worship chorus
Practice saying “No” to something that drains you
Spend a few minutes on a hobby you’ve ignored
Start a 3-verse Bible meditation
Sit near a sunny window
Journal your prayers
Celebrate one tiny win from today

Enjoy! I wish you great peace and joy for the holiday season and beyond!