Wouldn’t it be great if you could check into the Spa at the Montage in Laguna Beach once a month for a self-care day? Imagine this: you are welcomed with a lemon spritzer, hit the steam room and sauna, then settle in for your massage and facial – then end the day with a little oceanside yoga. That would be an amazing way to recharge. Until you get the bill.

So the question is, how do you get that pampering, relaxed feeling after some self care without the price tag? Let’s explore…

What is self care?

The Oxford Dictionary says: 

“The Practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health.”

“The practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress.”

So the question is, how do YOU do that, CHEAP?

Here’s a life of some of our favorites.

1. Take time out to be social. We are social animals. The new book “Friendship” by Lydia Denworth, a science journalist, asserts that our friendships give us longer lives. The best thing about connecting with a good friend – it’s free! Go on a walk, make a cup of coffee. Just be together.

2. Journaling: My friend has woken up EVERY DAY of her life since her early twenties to right in her journal as she starts the day. She is also one of the happiest, most grounded people I know. Probably no mistake. Starting your day focusing on gratitude will affect your mental state.

3. Lay on a foam roller. It’s not a massage at the Montage but it can make your back feel pretty darn close. And MUCH cheaper!

4. Turn off social media. This is free. Take a break. When you are in line somewhere, look at the people and things around you. Take in YOUR life, not someone else’s.

5. Mask. If you mask you know that it forces you to stop, lay down, rest and relax. And MUCH cheaper than a facial.

SO let’s start practicing cheap self-care today.