Affordable Self-Care Outside of Therapy: Nurturing Your Well-Being on a Budget

Hey there, wonderful souls! Let’s dive into a topic that’s dear to my heart – taking care of ourselves without burning a hole in our pockets. I’ve walked the therapy path, and boy, has it transformed my life. But I get it – therapy can be pricey, and not everyone can swing it. So today, let’s chat about some Affordable Self-Care Outside of Therapy. In this article and podcast episode I’ll share soul-soothing techniques that have saved my sanity and kept my creative spark alive.

Now, if you’re nodding your head, saying “Preach!” because you’re in the same boat, trust me, you’re not alone. Therapy entered my life at the age of 27, and boy, I wish I had found it sooner. But here’s the thing – I couldn’t afford to go as often as I wanted. My anxiety and PTSD were like tag-team wrestlers, and I needed more care than I could get. So, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery and self-care, seeking ways to keep my mental health in check, even when therapy sessions were few and far between.

1. Podcasts: Your Portable Therapy Sessions

Picture this: You’re sipping your coffee, and a wise friend is speaking right into your ears. That’s what podcasts did for me. Let me introduce you to three gems that are my lifelines. “The Adult Chair with Michelle Chalfant” – imagine a warm hug for your soul. Michelle’s insights on mental health and relationships feel like balm for the spirit. When I need a loving nudge, it’s like she’s right there beside me.

And then there’s “Mindset Mentor,” a friend who isn’t afraid to give me a reality check. Ever need a swift kick in the right direction? That’s your show. But when I want a sprinkle of both – love and tough love – I turn to “Self Love Fix.” Beatrice’s nurturing voice and practical tips are like a cozy chat with a friend who gets it.

2. Guided Journaling and Healing Words

Raise your hand if you’ve ever found solace in putting pen to paper. Journaling – my lifeline. Whether you’re jotting down random thoughts or trying guided exercises, it’s a way to pour out your heart and make sense of it all. I dove into books like “My Pocket Meditations for Self Compassion,” and oh, did they work wonders. Imagine having a toolkit for self-compassion, forgiveness, and healing, right at your fingertips.

I also found companionship in the pages of “Healing Through Words” by Rupi Kaur. These guided journals, they were like an anchor in my storm – a place where my thoughts found a safe haven.

You can find all of these books linked in my Amazon storefront!

[ related: Celebrate Your Uniqueness & Stop Comparing – Free Printable Flower Art Inside]

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3. Therapeutic Apps: Your Pocket Cheerleaders

Ever wished for a support squad in your pocket? Well, you got it. Meet “7 Cups” – a place to chat with trained listeners who truly understand. It’s like having your personal cheering section, ready to listen when you need it most. Then there’s “Happify,” a pocket-size therapist, offering meditations, challenges, and affirmations to boost your spirits.

And “I AM,” my daily dose of positivity. Imagine your phone buzzing with reminders that you matter, that you’re strong, and that today is a gift. It’s a gentle nudge to be kind to yourself and to celebrate your journey.

Download these encouraging wallpapers and printable art for free! My gift to you.

[ related: Free Printable Flower Art to Inspire Self Love (arastasia.com) ]

4. Embracing Creativity: Your Healing Playground

Time to tap into your creative superpower! I can’t stress this enough – creativity heals. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro or just starting out – when you create, you connect with your soul. Painting, drawing, cooking, crafting – they’re all magic. For me, painting clouds and blending colors became my therapy. Doodling on my iPad? Total bliss. It’s like a soul workout, where you stretch your imagination and let your worries melt away.

[ related: How Painting Clouds Helps Perfectionism & Anxiety ]

But hey, I’ve got something extra for you – my “Blooming Creativity” kit. It’s a free guide, a treasure chest filled with resources, links, journaling prompts, and creative exercises. Consider it my way of saying, “You’ve got this.”

In a Nutshell

So, my friend, here’s the deal – self-care isn’t reserved for deep pockets. It’s for all of us, no matter where we are in our journey. Whether you’re nodding along, taking notes, or feeling that spark ignite within you, remember that you’re never alone on this path. These budget-friendly techniques – they’re here to support you, nurture you, and remind you that you’ve got what it takes.

Dive into the full episode of “Your Artsy Friend,” where we’ll explore these techniques, share stories, and celebrate the beautiful mess that is life. You’re stronger than you know, and your well-being matters. Let’s embark on this journey together.

Arastasia Rolain – Traveling Mural Artist, Art Educator, & Creative Entrepreneur

www.arastasia.com