21 Self-Care Gifts You Can Buy for Under $10

When you live with a health condition, self-care is a must. While it’s important to take care of yourself, doing so shouldn’t have to break the bank.

To help you on your self-care journey, we put together a list of affordable self-care products you can add to your self-care kit. You can give these items to a friend struggling with a mental or chronic illness or to yourself when you’re feeling down.

Here are some self-care items you can purchase for under $10.

1. Journal

Nothing says self-care like self-reflection. Get yourself a journal and use it to track your mood or just to get out your emotions down on paper.

Our picks: Fuchsia Bloom Journal and Leather Journal 

2. Ear Buds

Music can be a powerful coping tool when you’re struggling with your health. If you’ve lost your earbuds or you loaned them to a friend that always forgets to give them back, it might be time to invest in a new pair.

Our pick: Ear Buds 

3. Art Supplies

Getting in touch with your creative side can give you a huge mental health boost. Whether you prefer coloring, drawing, painting or something else, art can be an especially healing form of self-care.

Our picks: Crayola 2-Pack of 12 Fine Line Markers and FunLavie Colored Pencils 

4. Aromatherapy Candle

Being surrounded by good smells can be an instant self-care mood booster. Pick your favorite scent and enjoy!

Our pick: Way Out Wax Aromatherapy Candle 

5. Bath Supplies

Sometimes all you want after a long week is self-care of the form of a relaxing bubble bath. Treat yourself to a fancy color-changing bath bomb and don’t skip the bubbles!

Our picks: Laguna Moon Bath Bomb Set and The Honest Company Bubble Bath 

6. Stuffed Animal

For times you just want a hug, a stuffed animal can come in handy. And, let’s be honest, who can resist this stuffed alpaca?

Our pick: Bearington Alma Plush Stuffed Animal Llama 

7. Acupressure Ring

If you can’t afford a massage, consider investing in some acupressure rings. They look like normal rings but can be used for massaging pressure points and knots.

Our pick: Acupressure Ring Pack 

8. Aromatherapy Mist

Spray some aromatherapy mist on your pillows or on your body for a calming effect.

Our pick: Lavender Body and Room Mist 

9. Nail Care Items

Mindful activities like painting your nails can be a good self-care technique for when things get tough. Check out these beauty finds for under $10.

Our picks: Gel Nail Polish Set and Nail File Blocks 

10. Fidget Toy

If you struggle with anxiety or get nervous in social situations, it can help to have a fidget toy on hand. Check out these stylish rainbow-colored options.

Our picks: Fidget Dodecagon and Fidget Spinner

11. Silly Putty or Slime

There’s just something so satisfying about squishing and molding silly putty or Play-Doh. You can buy these cheap options below, or even learn how to make it yourself.

Our picks: Silly Putty 6-Pack and Stress Relief Slime 

12. Tea

Tea can be good for the soul. Whether you prefer black, green, white or oolong tea, making “a cuppa” can be a great way to take care of yourself.

Our pick: Tazo “Zen” Tea 2-Pack ($10)

13. Chocolate

If you’re looking for a good self-care snack, chocolate may be a good option.

Our pick: Lindt Dark Chocolate Bar

14. Face Mask

If you’re about to take a bubble bath, why not get a face mask on before you soak in the tub?

Our pick: Collagen Facial Mask 12-Pack

15. Fuzzy Socks

There’s just something comforting about fuzzy socks. It’s kind of like a hug for your feet, and who doesn’t want that?

Our pick: 5-Pack Fuzzy Socks ($10)

16. Lotion

Sometimes self-care can look “boring.” Grab yourself some lotion to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.

Our pick: Nivea Daily Smooth Lotion 

17. Bubbles

Bubbles aren’t just for kids! They can also be helpful to control breathing during a panic attack, and bring a smile to your face.

Our pick: Bubbles 

18. Chapstick

Chapstick is another great example of “boring” self-care. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out some new flavors!

Our picks: Burt’s Bees 4-Pack Chapsticks 

19. Puzzle

Fighting intrusive thoughts that just don’t seem to go away? Puzzles may offer a welcome distraction and give you something tangible to focus on.

Our pick: 750-Piece Cat Puzzle 

20. Heating Pad

Do you carry your anxiety and stress physically? Investing in a heating pad may provide some relief.

Our pick: Microwave Heating Pad 

21. A Donation to Your Favorite Nonprofit

There’s nothing quite like the gift of helping others. Donating $10 to a nonprofit organization can be an act of self-care because helping others often makes people feel good. Whether it’s a local nonprofit or one that operates nationwide, every donation – no matter how big or small – is appreciated.

Our picks: National Alliance on Mental Illness, Mental Health America, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, International Bipolar Foundation and Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance.

What would you add?