Plenty of people know about the importance of keeping up with your physical health. Regular exercise, annual doctor appointments, and a well-balanced diet all ensure that our bodies are (and remain) running in tip-top shape year after year. But many often overlook another important aspect of our health: mental and emotional health.
Life is stressful, and it can be easy to ignore the need for self-care. For busy moms and dads, it can even seem too "self-indulgent" to spend loads of time and money taking care of yourself. But in reality, looking after your own emotional and psychological well-being is essential to being the best and highest-functioning person and parent you can be — and simple self-care doesn't have to break the bank at all!
Here are 17 self-care products (all $25 or less!) that'll allow you a moment of calm and relaxation on the cheap.
1. Boyfriend Eau de Parfum Spray, $24
The Boyfriend fragrance is all about you — not the guy in your life. With hints of dark plum, myrrh, and jasmine, you'll feel alive, refreshed, and into the way you smell. The unisex fragrance also incorporates a little bit of patchouli and amber.
Shop Now: Buy it at Boyfriend for $24.
2. Cozy Grip Socks, $12
These fuzzy pink grip socks are true to their word: You'll feel better from the moment you slip your toes inside them. And where your feet go, the rest of you will follow. The socks are made of fuzzy chenille and microfiber with silicone grips that are sure to have your whole self feeling snug and warm.
Shop Now: Buy them on Ban.do for $12.
3. BLIPS Stress Toy, $8.03
Sometimes self-care comes in the cutest form, like these BLIPS from Etsy. If you feel good just by looking at something cute, BLIPS are for you. They're also great anti-stress and anxiety toys, perfect for rolling around in your hand when you've got something on your mind. Plus the word "BLIPS" is pretty hard to say without a smile on your face.
Shop Now: Buy it on Etsy for $8.03.
4. Aromatherapy Diffuser, $15.99
Certain scents, like lavender and eucalyptus, are known for their calming and relaxing properties. Pick out your favorite essential oils and use them in this diffuser to bask in the soothing smells.
Shop Now: Buy it on Amazon for $15.99.
5. Soothing Candle, $10.99
There are plenty of candles out there that you can purchase for under $25. This particular one, from Target, has lavender and thyme for an "herbal and soothing aroma." It's also sleek and modern-looking.
Shop Now: Buy it at Target for $10.99.
6. Dark Chocolate Sampler, $24.95
Because sometimes you just need a piece of chocolate. Dark chocolate in particular is a natural mood-booster, among other potential health benefits.
Shop Now: Buy it at Godiva for $24.95.
7. Disney Coloring Book, $6.81
Disney lovers are generally familiar with Thomas Kinkade's gorgeous Disney artwork — and coloring can be a great way to focus your mind and "zen out" while doing something fun and mindless.
Shop Now: Buy it on Amazon for $6.81.
8. Soothing Eye Pillow, $17.50
This hypoallergenic silk eye pillow has a pouch filled with organic lavender and flaxseed. It can be used to nap, meditate, and even relieve headaches.
Shop Now: Buy it on Amazon for $17.50.
9. Sheet Masks, $9.99
Korean beauty products are known for being top of the line, and sheet masks are the peak of luxury. Test out an assortment of different face masks, each dealing with different skin issues, by buying this variety pack.
Shop Now: Buy them on Amazon for $9.99.
10. Healing Socks, $11.99
Heal your cracked, dry heels by slipping on these fuzzy moisturizing socks. Simply apply your favorite lotion, put on these socks, and snooze. You'll wake up to softer, healthier, and happier feet.
Shop Now: Buy them on Amazon for $11.99.
11. Kiehl's Hair Mask, $25
This intensely conditioning hair mask contains olive and avocado oils to help repair your dry, damaged strands. Plus, it's said to be good for all hair types.
Shop Now: Buy it at Sephora for $25.
12. Burt's Bees Hand Repair Kit, $11
Winter is here, and your dry, cracked hands probably need some TLC. This Burt's Bees gift kit contains all you need to soothe and moisturize.
Shop Now: Buy it on Amazon for $11.
13. Interactive Journal, $14.82
Focus your thoughts and indulge in a bit of inner reflection with this nifty "journal for self-exploration."
Shop Now: Buy it at Barnes & Noble for $14.82.
14. Knitting Supplies, $11.97
There have been plenty of studies illuminating the significant psychological health benefits of knitting. Avid knitters can tell you that the process is intensely calming and even therapeutic! This beginner set can get you started with all the essentials you need.
Shop Now: Buy it on Amazon for $11.97.
15. Dead Sea Mud Face Mask, $14.99
Soothe your skin with this deep-cleansing, mineral-infused mud mask. It has over 5,000 five-star reviews on Amazon!
Shop Now: Buy it on Amazon for $14.99.
16. Lush Sleepy Body Lotion, $9.95
Over the past year, people have not stopped raving about this Lush lotion that helps you fall (and stay) asleep. The pale purple cream contains oat milk, almond oil, and soothing lavender, among other ingredients.
Shop Now: Buy it at Lush for $9.95.
17. Assorted Teas, $20
Who hasn't had the urge to kick back and relax with a cup of hot, soothing tea — especially during the winter months? This box tea sampler contains five varieties of "relaxing herbal tea blends," including Apricot Amaretto, Blueberry Merlot, Cherry Cosmo, Kiwi Lime Ginger, and Mojito Marmalade.
Shop Now: Buy it on Amazon for $20.
Psst: If you choose to purchase an item on this list, LittleThings may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
