Tuesday

“Most little luxuries aren’t even expensive, we are just too busy to make use of them.”

-Katie Stone

Welcome to Tuesday! Today, we're chatting about:

• Why a splurge might be just what you need

• The mental health benefits of little luxuries

• What’s for dinner tonight?

• The luxurious Danish lighting trend that elevates any space

• A surprising use for coconuts

Why a Little Splurge Might Be Smart

Strict budgeting often comes with a downside—eliminating all non-essential spending can lead to frustration and impulse splurges. Instead of removing small luxuries entirely, financial experts suggest a different approach: strategic indulgence.

Allowing for small, planned rewards can help maintain motivation when working toward financial goals. One effective method is setting aside a small percentage of savings or debt repayment—such as 5%—to use for personal treats. This keeps spending intentional while preventing burnout from overly restrictive budgeting.

Another strategy is scheduling specific shopping days rather than making impulse purchases throughout the month. Knowing there’s a planned opportunity to indulge can reduce spur-of-the-moment spending and encourage more thoughtful purchases. Some also find value in pairing indulgences with savings—for example, matching a purchase amount with an equal contribution to a savings account.

Smart financial planning isn’t about eliminating joy. It’s about finding a balance that allows for both responsible saving and the occasional reward, making long-term financial goals easier to stick with.

Why Little Luxuries Matter More Than You Think

Luxury doesn’t have to mean expensive vacations or designer handbags. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a morning coffee in your favorite mug or five minutes of uninterrupted silence. These small indulgences do more than just feel nice—they can improve mood, reduce stress, and help build resilience in daily life.

Research shows that taking time to savor something enjoyable, like a good book or a warm bath, can boost dopamine levels, making everyday moments feel more fulfilling. Even minor upgrades, like lighting a scented candle or using a plush towel, can turn ordinary routines into moments of comfort.

At work, little luxuries might look like playing your favorite playlist, taking a short walk outside, or investing in a chair cushion that makes long hours more bearable. These moments of self-care don’t just feel good; they can actually enhance focus and productivity.

The best part? Luxuries don’t need to be extravagant to be meaningful. The key is to find what sparks joy for you and make it a regular part of your routine.

Tired of asking “What’s for dinner?” Here’s the answer.

It’s Tovala—the chef-crafted meal delivery service that’s changing the game for dinner (and lunch and breakfast). Each meal is delivered fresh and takes only 1 minute to prep so you can spend less time cooking and more time living.

Sign up and get your Tovala Smart Oven for just $49 (originally $299) today.

Thank you to Tovala for sponsoring Note To Self. 

The Luxury Lighting Hack That Calms Your Mind

The Danes know a thing or two about coziness, and their obsession with lighting is proof. With long, dark winters, they’ve mastered the art of creating warm, inviting spaces using soft, golden light. It’s all part of their concept of "hygge"—a feeling of comfort, contentment, and well-being. And the best part? You don’t need to move to Copenhagen to try it.

The trick is choosing the right bulbs. Instead of bright white or blue-toned lights (which can feel harsh and overstimulating), opt for bulbs with a lower temperature on the Kelvin scale—around 1800K to 2700K. This mimics candlelight or a cozy sunset, instantly making your space feel more relaxing. Soft lighting isn’t just about aesthetics; studies show it can lower stress and improve sleep quality.

Strategic placement helps, too. Try layering light sources—table lamps, floor lamps, or even string lights—to create pools of warmth. Pleated or fabric lamp shades help diffuse the glow, making everything feel softer. A simple switch in lighting can transform your home into a sanctuary, proving that a little hygge goes a long way.

5 Billion Pounds of Clay and Silica Are Mined Each Year…

Wellness Round-Up:

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ True or False?: True! Studies show that presentation affects perception—your brain actually believes it tastes better in a high-quality mug.

• 🙋🏼‍♀️ Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Little luxuries aren’t about extravagance—they’re about intention. A cozy candlelit evening, a fancy coffee at home, five extra minutes under a warm shower—these small indulgences remind us that joy is found in the details. So today, give yourself permission to savor something simple. You deserve it.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!