Self-Care Looks Different for Everyone: Here’s How to Create Your Own Routine Without Breaking the Bank

Self-Care Looks Different for Everyone: Here’s How to Create Your Own Routine Without Breaking the Bank

Between traffic jams, crazy deadlines, family demands, and the constant stress of living in a place like Lagos or Abuja, self-care can easily feel like a luxury you can’t afford. But the truth is, it doesn’t have to be a trip to the spa or a weekend getaway. Sometimes, it’s in the little everyday things that help you pause, breathe, and feel human again.

Self-care is not a one-size-fits-all. For one person, it might be a short walk after work. For another, it could be watching Tinsel while eating eba. Some prefer to talk it out with friends. Others just want peace and quiet with their remote in hand. What matters most is that your version of rest makes sense to you. No guilt. No comparison. You’re allowed to take a break, even if it’s just 30 minutes in front of your TV with a cold drink and your phone on silent.

And no, you don’t have to wait till the weekend. Care for yourself daily, with what you already have around you. Here’s a simple and affordable guide to creating your own self-care routine, even with a tight schedule and budget.

1. Unwind in Bed After Work

You’ve made it through another hectic day. You’re home, you’ve had a quick shower, and you slide into bed while your GOtv is tuned to Big Brother Naija. You're half asleep but still thinking about that one task you didn't finish at work. Suddenly, Kaybobo and Mensan are in a heated shouting match. You blink once, then again, and before you know it, you're wide awake and chuckling. Who doesn't enjoy a little drama at the end of the day? Sometimes, peace is lying in bed, letting go, and letting the noise of the day melt into soft background TV sounds, and with the Big Brother Naija Season 10 in full force right now, prepare to have a lot of sleep breaks.

2. Media Moments That Matter

Give yourself 30 minutes in the evening to just relax and watch a good show. It could be Tinsel on Africa Magic Showcase at 7.30 pm, or The Yard late at night. The key is to watch something light and enjoyable. Nothing too serious. Just good vibes.

3. Laugh It Off

Watch comedy or something that lifts your mood. A quick skit, sitcom, or Nollywood teenage drama like Dear Future Me or even Close of Business, which may or may not be depicting your exact work life on TV. Crazy, right? But relatable shows like this have a way of easing tension and reminding you that you’re not alone. Laughter is still very much medicine, and GOtv has options for every kind of humour with shows like Flatmates, The Johnsons, and My Siblings & I lined up for you.

4. Learn Something Light

Not every self-care moment has to be about bubble baths and candles. You can pick up something new. GOtv has shows that teach you recipes, home organisation hacks, or even give you a peek into another culture or lifestyle. You’re growing, resting, and learning without paying for any expensive courses. Next time you’re in a circle of friends, you can chip in a quick "Did you know a group of flamingos is called a flamboyance?" Or even show off that you know what ‘good morning’ is in Urhobo or a playful Migwo to say hello to your friends.

5. Turn Up the Music and Move

Just five minutes of dancing in your room can lift your entire mood. Soundcity, Urban TV, and other music channels on GOtv have back-to-back hits that can boost your energy. Sometimes, that quick vibe session is exactly what your spirit needs while you are sorting out your work fit for the following day.

6. Screen Time With Family

Watch cartoons or movies together with your siblings or partner. Instead of just jumping straight into bed because your boss stressed you out at work, sit and share a moment. It’s a simple way to bond, relieve stress, and remind you that you are loved at home. Everyone is relaxed, phones are down, and you’re laughing at the same silly thing. These are the small moments that make home feel like home.

You can achieve peace and comfort within the four walls of your home. Remember, if you even step one foot outside your door in Lagos, it automatically results in an unexpected debit alert. With packages as low as 6000 Naira, GOtv gives you access to shows, music, movies, and entertainment that help you unwind on your own terms. Whether you're watching alone or with family, there’s always something worth tuning in for.

You don’t need fancy candles or curated playlists to feel better. Your version of self-care might be watching Big Brother Naija in bed. It might be dancing in your towel before you sleep. It might be sitting quietly on your balcony. As long as it helps you feel like yourself again, it counts. Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Just be intentional. GOtv is there for those little daily moments of ease. Moments that help you rest, recharge, and find small joys in the middle of your everyday life.