Special self care is the most fun. You can spend money, but don’t have to. You can eat deliciously, but don’t have to blow a calorie budget. Special self-care are one off activities that you add to your daily routines to surprise yourself and give yourself something relaxing to look forward to.
You are worth it. You need to take the time to celebrate yourself. Even in our deepest depressions we do deserve to treat ourselves. Below are some examples of activities you can do to treat yourself. I write mine down on post-its and stick it in an envelope, when I need a treat and can’t think of anything I go through my post-its and find an activity that speaks to me. I am always adding post-its to my envelope as I try new things and come up with new experiences to treat myself.
Manicure or pedicure: do it yourself or go somewhere to have it done. Include friends or go by yourself for some alone time.
If you have the money, get a massage. Maybe even add some add-ons.
Try acupuncture. It personally scares the hell out of me, but you might enjoy. See if there is a groupon to get some extra money off.
Get a book from the library (free) or bookstore about some topic you’ve been interested in, but have never taken the time to learn. Afterward, spend a few minutes each day learning about it.
Set aside some guilt free time to listen to music.
Call your mom, dad, or any other family member you care about just to say hi. I am talking on the phone to people I love, whenever I am driving.
Buy and dress your pet in a silly costume and take them on tour to make others smile. I made this bandana out of scraps from the local fabric store.
Prepare a meal, no matter how simple. For me it is always Velveeta mac-and-cheese.
Lay on the floor on your back with your eyes closed for five minutes (or longer) and just breathe. Do not feel guilty about the time you are spending on yourself.
Buy special pens/pencils and coloring book and use those during stressful times or boredom. It's low cost and will last years.
Listen to a podcast about something that interests you that you haven’t yet explored or about Bipolar/Mental Illness/Anxiety/Relationships (if you need ideas).
Tell your cat/dog all of your darkest, most shameful secrets. His or her nonchalance and snuggles will remind you that you’re okay.
Roll out a blanket and eat your dinner on the grass at home or in the park. Invite someone else if you’d like company. The fresh air is great.
Build something with Legos, either from a kit or from your imagination. I always go kit, but that's because I like structure.
Take an Epsom salt bath or bath bomb bath in total darkness and silence. I set a timer for 45 minutes so that I know that I have that time completely to myself and I don't feel like I am wasting time. But do whatever works for you.
Buy a puzzle about a topic you like and do it!