Self-care isn't just about pouring yourself a glass of wine, sticking on your favourite episode of Friends and calling it a day. Self-care is a commitment to yourself. And, with everything that is going on right now, we need it more than ever.
Related: 12 things to buy that'll stop you feeling dread and fear for at least five minutes
Whether it's mixing up your routine, taking more time for yourself or doing something (anything) differently, there are lots of things that you can do to make a positive change. One of the easiest ways to do this is by treating yourself to some affordable things to boost your self-care routine.
What is self-care?
The phrase self-care is something that is used all over social media, in our day-to-day lives, referenced in films, spoken about with friends and encouraged at the workplace, but what does self-care actually mean.
According to World Health Organization aka WHO, "Self-care is broad concept which also encompasses hygiene (general and personal); nutrition (type and quality of food eaten); lifestyle (sporting activities, leisure, etc.); environmental factors (living conditions, social habits, etc.); socioeconomic factors (income level, cultural beliefs, etc.); and self-medication.
"Core principles: Fundamental principles for self-care include aspects of the individual (e.g. self-reliance, empowerment, autonomy, personal responsibility, self-efficacy) as well as the greater community (e.g. community participation, community involvement, community empowerment)."
Now that you understand that self-care encompasses all aspects of our lives, it's time to discover some products that'll help you feel like you're the best you, because you're amazing.
Check out our top picks of the affordable things to boost your self-care routine:
The best affordable things to boost your self-care routine
1 of 13Tisserand Aromatherapy - Total De-Stress Discovery Kit
Are you feeling stressed out because you're balancing working from home alongside everything else that is going on in your life? Take a moment out and use one of the total de-stress products from Tisserand Aromatherapy. My favourite is the total de-stress moodfix mist, simply spray it around you and breathe in the lovely lavender smell. All of these products remind me of being in a spa.
2 of 13GLOSSYBOX Ready, Set, Glow Skincare Set
GLOSSYBOX is our go-to place to discover new beauty items thanks to their subscription and limited-edition boxes, but they now offer skincare and we couldn't be happier.With natural ingredients, the exfoliating clay scrub, hydrating mist and 3-in-1 rich moisturiser will make your skin glow. No really! We adore the hydrating mist as it alone makes our face feel silky.But what makes this self-care? Well, it's a chance to put down your phone for a start.
3 of 13Ultimate Relaxation Kit Letterbox
Letterbox gifts are the perfect way to send someone a care package to really make their day. This relaxation kit includes a mini bath bombs. moisturiser pouch, loofa, rustic soap, pillow spray, scented tealight and more.
4 of 13The Sacred Self-Care Oracle: A 55-Card Deck and Guidebook
Consider yourself a spiritual person or open to trying new things? The Sacred Self-Care Oracle: A 55-Card Deck and Guidebook is a powerful healing tool that allows you to nourish your soul. On each of the 55 cards, you'll find self-care ideas to follow.
5 of 13Write Your Own Story Wellness Journal
I was gifted this journal for Christmas, and I'm obsessed with it. Not only is it personalised to me, but the pages give me a space to scribble down my thoughts, hopes and dreams. From nutrition to goals and a dedicated self-care box, this diary has it all. Discover the best wellness planners here.
6 of 13Happy: Finding joy in every day and letting go of perfect
One of the biggest benefits of reading is that it helps reduce stress. Follow Fearne Cotton's journey through this book and discover advice, exercises, tips and tricks to unlock your inner happiness. We'll take two!
£5.44
- Rrp: £9.99
7 of 13Personalised Be Good To Yourself Art Print
Do you have a gallery wall at home? Are you searching for a little reminder to cheer you up? This personalised Be Good To Yourself Art Print is the perfect little pick-me-up.
8 of 13Needs&Gifts Himalayan Crystal Rock Salt Lamp
Need a space to reflect, write, meditate or just take a moment out of your day? Switch on your Himalayan salt lamp and take a deep breath. This beautiful accessory is believed to have some good health benefits like helping you sleep, boosting your mood and improving air quality.
£17.99
- Rrp: £19.99
9 of 13GLOSSYBOX Daily Micellar Gel Cleanser 100ml
Loved the GLOSSYBOX Ready, Set, Glow Skincare Set? Treat yourself to more skincare goodies now. Taking pride in your hygiene is one of the best ways to practice self-care; this includes having a good skincare regime, right? Add the incredible GLOSSYBOX Daily Micellar Gel Cleanser to your routine - you'll be left with silky feeling skin. The results are fantastic, you can trust me because it's my new go-to cleanser.
10 of 13Love and Pamper Sleep Well Aromatherapy Pampering Gift Set
"Don't worry about a thing, because everything little thing is going to be alright," is easier said than done. Or in this case, sang. This said, the Love and Pamper gift set does provides an opportunity to relax and step away from day-to-day life, even if it's just for five minutes.
11 of 13Grow Me Be Happy
The reason I practice self-care is because I want to grow. Thanks to this incredible gift box from Gift Republic, you can watch your sunflower sprout and thrive as you do.
12 of 13The Little Calm and Happy Company Happy Friendship Quotes Jar
Spread the joy of happiness and gift The Little Calm and Happy Company Happy Friendship Quotes Jar to anyone who needs reminding it's OK to stop and having a bit of TLC. Even if the person you're gifting it to is yourself.
13 of 13Blob Box
This is more than a period subscription box, this is a period subscription box built around self-care. Every three months you'll have a Light Blobber Box, Medium Blobber Box or a Heavy Blobber Box arrive at your door, which is tailored around your flow. As well as selecting your sanitary product of choice, you can pick your preferred brand - putting you at the heart of this box.The goodies don't stop there! The box also includes five to ten beauty treats, the option to buy a one-off boxand earn Blob rewards points. Plus, Blob Box donates 1% of revenue sales to Free Periods - a charity that fights to end period poverty in UK schools.
If you or someone you know is struggling, find more information and support available on the NHS. It's essential that you reach out to close family members and friends, health care professionals or other support systems. Here are some useful contacts:
Need immediate help? Dial 999 or go to your local A&E department. You can also call NHS 111 or contact your GP and ask for an emergency appointment if you’re not in any immediate danger. Don’t forget that you can also use the following services.
Samaritans
Contact 24-hours a day for confidential emotional support for anyone who is experiencing feelings of distress, despair or suicidal thoughts.
For more information visit Samaritans.org
Call 116 123 free from the UK and Ireland
Alternatively email jo@samaritans.org - response time is 24 hours
Mind
Advice, support and information for anyone experiencing a mental health difficult and their family and friends.
For more information visit mind.org.uk
Call Infoline: 0300 123 3393 or text 86463 - Available 9am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (except for bank holidays)
Alternatively email info@mind.org.uk
Rethink Mental Illness
Helps support everyone effected by severe mental illness such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
For more information visit rethink.org
Call 0300 5000 927 – open Monday to Friday from 10am to 2pm
Alternatively email advice@rethink.org
What to read next:
Lily Anderson is a writer at Bauer Media, where she tests products for titles such as Heat, Closer, What’s the Best and Mother&Baby.
Subscribe to the What’s The Best Newsletter to keep up to date with more of the latest reviews and recommendations from Lily and the rest of the What’s The Best team.