3 splurges that will improve your well-being—and your budget—and 3 things to spend less on
When it comes to wellness, there are products you can purchase that measurably improve the mood in your home, noticeably change the way your body feels and performs or that shift your mindset in a positive direction. So go ahead, make a little investment in your well-being with these products. Some are worth-it splurges, some are no-brainer bargains, but all will pay for themselves in the way they boost your day-to-day quality of life.
3 splurges that will improve your well-being—and your budget…
1. Infrared sauna blanket
Most people can’t afford to install a home sauna or hit the spa on a regular basis, which is why infrared sauna blankets feel like one of the best life hacks (and relative bargains) around. Just plug it in, set your temperature, then crawl in and relax; most offer a machine-washable liner that absorbs any sweat. Retreat into your portable sauna to unwind and detox while you watch a show or listen to music or a meditation, or as a way to give yourself a post-workout treat. Because infrared sauna blankets use electromagnetic currents designed to deeply stimulate body tissue, some studies have indicated that they’re even more effective than traditional wood-burning saunas.
Read more: Keep your expenses on track with Ally’s spending buckets
2. Smart electric fragrance diffuser
Scent is scientifically shown to have a profound effect on how we feel, and not only are electric fragrance diffusers less expensive than room sprays or scented candles over time, they are designed to disperse essential oils with clean ingredients and no volatile organic chemicals. For further savings, smart diffusers can be turned on and off using an app and set to a timer or schedule, so they’re only on when you’re home and awake. Some models offer dozens of fragrances to suit every season and mood, with one refill lasting up to 800 hours. All of this also adds up to less waste when compared to the glass that goes into landfills from scented-candle jars, which are tricky to clean out and recycle.
3. Massage gun
Yes, nice ones (i.e. the trendy ones you see on social media) are definitely a bit of an investment, but the cost is still less than you’d pay for a single spa massage or physical therapy session. Also called percussive therapy devices, these gadgets really work when it comes to relieving muscle tension and pain, increasing flexibility and mobility, and recovering more quickly after workouts or activities like skiing and biking. They help promote better blood circulation and stimulate lymphatic drainage, too.
3 things to spend less on
1. Affirmation cards
The trending concept of affirmation cards serve as a simple and inexpensive reminder to stop and re-center your perspective amidst the hustle of daily life. They come in all sorts of designs and personalities and make thoughtful gifts, too. Stash a deck in a spot where you’ll remember to use them, like the windowsill above the kitchen sink—they even make waterproof cards you can read in the shower.
2. A humidifier
One of the most old-school ways to optimize your indoor air quality, humidifiers have gotten pretty space-aged lately, but you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience the skin and respiratory benefits of ambient moisture—this is one area of tech where simpler models can perform just as well. Just check to see what size room a humidifier is designed for, and be sure to follow the instructions for regular cleaning. Check out truly charming mini humidifiers designed for your bed stand or work desk, and search “humidifier planter” for clever and aesthetic two-for-one air-quality improvers.
3. Shower steamers
Bath salts and bubbles are lovely, but if you just really prefer a nice long shower, you can still indulge in some aromatherapy fun. Shower steamers are like bath bombs, place one near the water flow and they’ll start to dissolve, releasing a calming scent into the misty air. There are versions designed to help with specific health issues, from headaches to stuffy noses, while others use immersive scents to transport you right out of your stress. Take a deep breath and enjoy a mini spa escape any time—for a tiny fraction of the price.
