CREDIT: AMY SCOTT
Self-care shouldn't be breaking the bank and with some simple and impactful ideas, you'll be better off mentality, physically and financially

Getting caught up with life is easy. Between class, homework, extra-curricular activities, your job, household chores or devoting time to your significant other, it can be hard to come across some “me time”. Often we have to remind ourselves to take some time out for ourselves by practicing self-care.

As students, we tend to be on a tight budget so let me get one thing straight: self-care does not need to be a trip to Europe or an expensive massage. In fact, self-care does not need to cost you money at all. Sometimes self-care can be taking a warm bath or connecting with an old friend that you miss. Self-care does not have to be anything complex.

With that being said, the Interrobang compiled a list of five ways to practice self-care on a budget.

Making yourself a home cooked meal after a long day:
I know that after a long day it is tempting to just stop at the nearest McDonalds on your way home. However, you're tired body probably won't appreciate the fast food you're offering it. Instead, cook one of your favourite recipes for yourself. This is a healthier option and thinking about your tasty dinner will definitely help you get through the day.

Here is the link to one of my favourite recipes (it is easy and vegan): thissavoryvegan.com/vegan-roasted-cauliflower-bbq-pizza/.

Spend some time in nature:
There is a reason that London is nicknamed “Forest City”. There are countless, beautiful trails all throughout the city. Many find time in nature to be healing and inspirational. While it's probably not too tempting to go out for a hike in the cold weather now, by the time spring rolls around you will be itching to get out in the nice weather.

My favourite trail in London is in the popular Springbank Park along the Thames River. 

Do a social media cleanse:
I've done this one and trust me, it's not as hard as it sounds. My rules were that I would not use social media for an entire day. I still used my laptop for doing homework, but sites that are considered time-wasters were off limits. I simply went to the library, read an interesting book, completed homework and spent more time making a delicious dinner. The result? A stress-free, productive day. Social media will still be around at the end of the day (and hint: you probably won't miss much).

Here's an incredibly detailed blog post about a social media cleanse and tips on how to do one yourself: livingbreely.com/2017/06/03/unplugged-a-social-media-detox/.

Drink more water:
I know so many people that start out each year by saying they are going to drink more water in the New Year. Some might be able to stick to this resolution the entire year, but it is very possible that you will forget all about it by the third week of January. However, drinking water has an incredible amount of benefits. Some of these include increased levels of energy, weight loss by decreasing your intake of high-calorie drinks, and less headaches.

Get enough sleep:
We all live very busy lives and as a result, often don't get enough sleep. However, it's so important to get eight to 10 hours of sleep a night. Getting enough sleep at night makes us more productive during the day. So next time you feel the need to stay up until 3 a.m. studying, consider going to bed early and waking up early to study instead. Your study session will be much more productive as brain will be fully recharged.