Take good care of yourself with these wellbeing-boosters that won’t break the bank
Pat yourself on the back for being bargain savvy in the supermarket aisles, slashing your energy bills where possible and cutting back on life’s little luxuries, but hands up who’s feeling frazzled or low as a result? Over 70% of Brits say that they’re worrying more as a result of the cost-of-living crisis* – which has a negative impact on health. Luckily, there are simple ways to practise self-care while sticking to a tight budget. Try these purse-friendly ideas to get the feel-good benefits for your body and mind.
Sip lavender tea
Is your regular cuppa a strong builder’s brew? It might be time to switch. ‘Different tea types can lower stress and lead to better sleep and relaxation,’ says Dr Tim Bond of the Tea Advisory Panel. Older adults who drink lavender tea twice a day have lower levels of anxiety and depression, found one study. Try Mayfield Lavender tea bags (£4.95, mayfieldlavender.com).
33p PER CUPPA
Munch apples
Struck down with a headache? Eating an apple might help as it’s rich in quercetin. ‘This is a type of plant compound that can help beat migraines as it has both anti-inflammatory and antihistamine properties,’ says registered nutritional therapist Claire Murray. But go for the green variety as the red pigment of the skin in red apples promotes histamine release and can trigger a migraine for some. And leave the skin on. ‘It contains higher levels of quercetin,’ adds Claire.
28P PER APPLE
Try palming
Too much time on digital devices can cause strained eyes, says ophthalmologist Dawn Sim. To rest your eyes, she suggests this technique.
1 Place your slightly cupped palms over your eyes, without applying pressure.
2 Let your fingertips overlap, resting on the forehead and try to not let any light through.
3 Breathe deeply for about a minute. Repeat several times throughout the day.
FREE
Have an orgasm
They help with everything from sleep and mood swings to reducing heart disease risk, due to the release of feel-good hormones that can neutralise stress. ‘During arousal, these endorphins also soothe nerve impulses to the brain to ease joint pain or migraines,’ says menopause expert Dr Louise Newson.
FREE
Soak in minerals
Epsom salt is a miracle mineral that soothes aching muscles, relieves stress, promotes sleep, and reduces arthritic pain. Pour two handfuls under running water and bathe for 20 minutes – natural magnesium promotes the production of the happy hormone serotonin.
13P PER BATH
On yer bike!
GPs in England are prescribing cycling to prevent inactivity in adults. Just
