My Top 5 Non-Food Treats
When you finish a week’s-worth of hard workouts or make it through a particularly busy day successfully, you deserve a reward, right? All too often, however, we think of that reward as spoon + pint of ice cream or burger + fries (or your food splurge of choice which may cancel out all of your efforts in the gym). Since you do deserve to give yourself props for a job well done—and show some love with Valentine’s Day approaching!—here are five ways to treat yourself without food.
- Manicure/Pedicure. I feel so spoiled when someone else pampers my hands and feet, but a DIY one does the trick too! The positive feelings continue for days since the pretty nails will brighten your mood and remind you of the awesomeness you accomplished to deserve the mani/pedi.
- Massage. This is perfect for a post-workout indulgence since your muscles will get plenty of TLC. Your insides will love it too: research has shown that massages can decrease blood pressure and stress, and may even help to ease symptoms of anxiety and depression.
- Movie. In our era of constant connectivity, it’s nice to turn off your technology for a couple hours and lose yourself in a good flick. Bonus points if Ryan Gosling is involved!
- New music, book, etc. Step 1: Load your iPod with a new playlist or buy an item off of your Amazon wishlist. (I recommend the new David Guetta album or An Invisible Thread by Alex Tresniowski and Laura Schroff.) Step 2: Relax and enjoy.
- “Me Time.” This one is awesome because, as J. Lo says, it “don’t cost a thing.” Sometimes what you really crave is an unscheduled evening or weekend to kick your feet up and do whatever makes you happy. Read that new book? Great! Watch a reality TV show marathon guilt-free? Go for it. Take a long nap? You got it! When you’re constantly go-go-go, nothing feels better than clearing out your schedule and doing what recharges your batteries.
What are your favorite rewards for a job well done?

