Self-Care on a Budget: How to invest in yourself without breaking the bank
Self-care doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. As students, we often face stress from endless deadlines and packed study schedules. Here are ways to invest in yourself that will fit your student budget.
Start with the basics. A simple skincare routine can be effective without being expensive, and you don’t need a fancy 10-step system to keep your skin healthy. TikTok trends can make it appear you need to splurge, but essentials matter most: a reliable cleanser and an SPF moisturiser. Brands like CeraVe and Garnier offer effective products that last a long time for under £15. Keeping your skincare routine simple and consistent will do wonders.
Consider lighting a candle for some ambiance. It can provide a lovely fragrance and warm, cozy lighting especially as the days grow shorter and colder. You don’t need to splash out—shops like Primark offer great affordable candles to create a relaxing space after a long day of lectures and transform your room into a little oasis.
If you’re lucky enough to have a bath in your student house, make the most of it. There’s nothing like a hot bath to unwind, especially with a bath bomb from Lush to add a touch of luxury. If you love an “everything shower” (the girlies get it) you can’t beat the reset it can provide.
Taking the time to make a comfort meal at home is a heartening and budget-friendly form of self-care. Whether it’s a simple pasta dish, or a cozy soup it is comforting and therapeutic. You can’t beat a cheesy spaghetti carbonara or pesto pasta. A chicken and mushroom or tomato soup are also easy and quick to make. Perhaps you could even try the viral vodka pasta! If baking is more your style, a batch of brownies or cookies is the ultimate pick-me-up.
Sometimes the best way to reset is simply to take a walk around your favourite local spot- Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is a cute day trip if you love animals. Woodhouse Moor, Hyde Park, and Headingley Park are great options for walks, and offer tennis courts too. Perhaps if you want to explore further afield take a day trip to York. Train tickets are often very cheap and quick as it’s so close. If you prefer a quiet day in; stay home, relax, and watch your preferred comfort show.
Uni life is hectic, and recharging is essential, especially during the winter exam season. Making time for hobbies or joining a society can also be a brilliant form of self-care. Take up a yoga class at your local gym or join a university society. These options are inexpensive, with society memberships typically under £15, and gyms offering student prices.
Spending time with friends is one of the easiest and most enjoyable forms of self-care. Quality time doesn’t need to cost much—invite a friend over for a coffee, watch a movie together, or have a nice chat on the sofa. These small moments can be a real boost to your well-being.
Prioritizing good sleep is also essential. Sometimes, a good night’s rest is all you need to feel more like yourself again. Quality sleep will help you recharge and keep up with everything uni life throws at you.
Don’t be afraid to spend time alone when you need it. It’s easy to feel like you need to be constantly social at uni but take moments to rest. University can be intense, and sometimes you need a break from the whirlwind and recharge. If you need a full reset, consider going home for the weekend. Sometimes a change of scenery is vital.
Self-care is unique to you and what you need and enjoy. It doesn’t need to be expensive or extravagant and there’s no need to compare your style to others. Focus on what makes you feel good and suits your needs.
Words by Maicey Navarro-Griffiths
