As I may have mentioned before, at least a time or two (haha) last year was the most difficult year of my life thus far. During some of my darkest times, someone close to me told me the best thing I could do is take care of myself. If I couldn’t do anything else but get out of bed that day, then just focus on taking care of my mental, spiritual, and physical health as best as I could that day. In that regard, I spent a lot of time trying to make improvements in my life and heal myself in all areas. I had neglected myself and been unhappy for so long, that last year I finally decided it was time to make myself and my well-being a priority.

Having said all of that, I made a lot of purchases (inexpensive ones) that helped me on my journey to better all areas of my life. Although self care looks different for everyone, I thought I’d share with you some of my favorite products that I purchased last year. Some of these items were actually gifted to me by close friends or family, but most are things that I purchased after some research and/or recommendations from others.. Nonetheless, these are the things that helped me get through the last year and things that I would recommend to anyone to make improvements, not just someone going through a hard time.

1. Bidet

This might sound crazy, but hear me out! Investing in a bidet was a game-changer for my personal hygiene and comfort. This simple addition to my bathroom routine made a world of difference. Not only does it leave you feeling incredibly fresh and clean, but it’s also more eco-friendly than traditional toilet paper. It’s a small luxury that has brought a bit of spa-like indulgence into my everyday life. Super inexpensive and very easy to install. I did it all by myself without any tools!

2. Toilet Stool

This might seem like a strange purchase, but a toilet stool has surprisingly improved my digestive health. By elevating my feet, it has helped with a more natural position for easier “movements”. Recommended by my pelvic floor therapist, it’s a small change that has made a significant difference in my overall comfort and well-being.

3. Water Flosser

Flossing has never been the favorite part of my day, but the water flosser made it so much easier and even enjoyable. It’s more effective than traditional floss, reaching places that are hard to get to. My gums have never felt healthier and it’s now a non-negotiable part of my daily routine, especially now that I have Invisalign and am flossing and brushing like 5 times a day!

4. Cat Litter Box Cabinet

As a cat momma to THREE feline friends, keeping the litter box situation under control is crucial which helps me to reducce stress and improve my overall well-being and mood.  Plus, I have large dogs that like to find the little “treats” my cats leave behind for them in the “sandbox”. Try convincing my dogs those aren’t for them! This litter box cabinet not only conceals the unsightly box, but also helps contain the mess and odor, as well as keeps it hidden from my nosy canine investigators. It blends seamlessly with my home decor and my feline furballs love their private commode too!

5. Astronaut Galaxy Projector

This lamp was actually a gift, but quickly became one of my favorite items and is a very affordable Amazon find. This little gadget transforms any room into a starry haven with its mesmerizing galaxy and star projections. Not only does it create a serene and magical atmosphere, but it also doubles as an adorable decor piece with its cute astronaut design. It’s perfect for setting a calming mood before bed and I seriously use it every single night now. The soft, colorful lights help me unwind and add a touch of wonder to my evenings, making it a delightful and soothing escape from the stresses of the day.

6. UV Gel Polish Kit

One of my self-care rituals is doing my nails which makes me feel put together and pampered. The UV gel polish kit has been a fantastic addition and allows me to achieve salon-quality nails at home, saving time and money. The gel polish lasts longer than regular nail polish and I love experimenting with different colors and designs. The kit I found on Amazon came with 30 different polish colors, the UV light to cure the polish, and a bunch of accessories like nail files, toe separators, and cuticle oil.

7. Charcuterie Board

Entertaining at home became a joy with the beautiful wooden charcuterie board I found stumbled across. Although it’s not technically for self car, it’s perfect for hosting friends or just treating myself to a fancy snack, both of which help my overall well-being. The board has sections for different cheeses, meats, fruits, and nuts, making it easy to create an Instagram- or Pinterest-worthy spread. It also came with little matching spoons, forks, knives, and dipping bowls to complete the presentation. Plus, it’s a lovely centerpiece for any gathering.

8. Cloud Sandal Slides

Comfort is key to feeling good and the cloud sandal slides I found have been my go-to footwear at home. They’re incredibly soft, easy to slip on and off, easy to clean when my dogs step on me with muddy paws, can be worn outside, and provide excellent support, making them perfect for lounging around the house or running quick errands. They’ve been a small, but significant addition to my comfort routine.

These are just a few of the items that made a big impact on my self-care journey last year. Each of these products brought a little bit of joy, comfort, and convenience into my life, helping me focus on healing and improving myself. If you’re looking for ways to enhance your well-being, I highly recommend giving these a try. Remember, taking care of yourself is the first step to overcoming any challenge.

With love, support, and happy shopping vibes,

-LS