Who wants a week at a spa? Is everyone answering “Me?” I know I’m raising my hand! Spas are expensive. But don’t let your budget keep you from relaxing; there are plenty of easy and free ways to chill, and we should all make time to do them. Relaxation is important- without some down time you’ll burn out quickly! Try some of these quick ways to relax for free:

Meditate: Meditation helps rest your mind and your body. Find something you like on YouTube and take a break.

Take a bath: Create a spa experience in your own bathroom with bath salts and scented candles. Play soft music and ignore all knocking on the door!

Read: Find a quiet corner and sit down with a book. Getting into a novel is the perfect temporary escape.

Color: Yes- you read that right. Coloring books for adults is a big thing now, said to be very soothing and therapeutic.

Eat some dark chocolate: Let’s be clear: this is not stress eating! It’s for health reasons- eating dark chocolate helps regulate stress hormones.

Deep breathing: Sounds pretty basic, but taking a few minutes for some slow, deep breathing has an extremely relaxing effect.

Watch a movie: Indulge yourself, and make sure not to do anything else while you watch- no folding laundry, picking up toys, or making shopping lists.

Acupressure: Rub the space between your thumb and index finger to relieve tension from your neck and shoulders. Make it extra relaxing by using lavender oil.

Sit in the sun.

Listen to music: Whatever makes you happy.

Cook a meal: Not because you have to, but because you want to. Engaging in a project can be very relaxing, and you’ll feel accomplished with the results.

What are your favorite frugal relaxation methods? Share them with us on Facebook and Pinterest!