Budget-Friendly Summer Wellness: Simple Ways I’m Caring for Myself Without Spending Much

Let’s be honest; summer can either feel like a breath of fresh air or one more thing to plan, organize, and hustle through. Between work, life, and trying to maintain some semblance of functionality, Wellness often sounds expensive, time-consuming, or just not realistic.

But here’s the truth: Wellness doesn't need to be complicated, curated, or costly. Sometimes, the most soul-refreshing moments are the simplest ones. Here are a few ways I’m keeping wellness front and center this summer, at no cost or at a very low price.

A vibrant summer market with people sightseeing, browsing colourful stalls, and enjoying a sunny outdoor atmosphere — capturing slow, joyful living.

🥤 My Favorite Summer Wind-Down: Music + Movement + Dishes?

After a long day, give me a cold drink, my headphones, and my favourite playlist — and I’m good. There’s something oddly soothing about doing the dishes or tidying up with music blasting in my ears. It’s not glamorous, but it’s real. It’s a little slice of "me time" in the middle of the everyday mess.

🎷 Festivals, Food Trucks, and Market Wandering

My city comes alive in the summer. I’m talking about free festivals, food truck gatherings, and local markets that don’t cost a thing to stroll through. Even if we don’t buy anything, walking around, snapping a few pics, and window-shopping at second-hand stores feels like an adventure. Sometimes, the best self-care is just getting outside and feeling like part of something bigger.

🌞 Sun Salutations in Stillness

If I don’t have time to work out, I always start the day with a few rounds of Sun Salutations. No gear, no pressure — just me, my mat, and the stillness of the early morning before the city wakes up. It grounds me, centers my body, and it’s completely free. A little movement in the morning makes a big difference throughout the day.

🍻 Summer Friends & the Magic of Terrasse St-Ambroise

There’s this little place I love — we go a few times a month to meet up with a circle of “summer friends.” It’s casual, family- and dog-friendly, and feels like an oasis in the middle of the week. Whether we plan it or just show up, something is healing about being around people who get it — and who are also just here to chill.

🌅 Structure + Spontaneity = Sanity

I work with a set schedule most days — 7:00 to 4:00 in work mode. But after 4:00? That’s where the magic happens. Sometimes, there’s a plan; sometimes, there’s just a walk and some laughter. I’ve learned that planning for spontaneity keeps me grounded while still giving me room to breathe.

😴 Wellness Rule #1: Rest Is Not a Luxury

When someone asks me for a wellness tip, I don’t say, “Drink more water” or “Try this smoothie.” I say: rest as much as possible. Seriously. Prioritize sleep. Move a little every day. Don’t underestimate the healing power of an early bedtime or a quiet night in. Sleep is not laziness — it’s survival.

Final Thought

You don’t need a retreat or a self-care kit to feel good this summer. You need a few quiet moments, a place that makes you feel human, and permission to not do everything. Your peace doesn’t have to be perfect — it just has to be yours.

-Love, Fabi