There are times when we all need a treat; Maybe we are feeling stressed, unappreciated, too tired. In these moments, we may wish for something forgiving to help us deal with a problem, calm us down, help us better manage stress, or provide a reward.

Let’s identify some treats that can make us feel good, positive, while also relieving stress; All without a single calorie in sight!

• Buy a bouquet of flowers and remember, even men like flowers! Put them in some unexpected place, like the hallway, the landing, or the bathroom, so that when you walk into that room, you smile.

• Freshly laundered sheets are at the top of most people’s goodies list. Add a few drops of essential oils to the final rinse cycle and enjoy a delicious treatment before bed. They smell wonderful and help you sleep better.

• Make a note of yourself in your journal and keep that appointment. Breaks are a great way to manage stress. Schedule some “me time” and enjoy the opportunity for some peace, quiet, and a short break.

• Make exercise fun. Going for a walk, playing an outdoor soccer game, or playing baseball can be a delightful way to spend an hour or so. Exercise together and enjoy your relationships.

• Listen to music. Browse your old catalog and rediscover tracks you haven’t heard in a long time. Enjoy digging up your old vinyl tracks and reminiscing about the past.

• Book a massage, facial, or manicure. Invest a little time and money in a delicious treat. Feel better, more confident, and well as you invest positively in yourself.

• Spend a nostalgic hour or two reviewing old photographs, diaries, and letters. Laugh, cry, or smile regretfully about the past.

• Get up early and watch the sunrise. Go for a walk, go for a jog, or enjoy some yoga as the day ends and few people are around. It’s a great way to start the day with ease.

• Spruce up your home with bright cushions, prints and embellishments and invest in your cozy retreat. You may enjoy shopping around for some inexpensive and quirky items at your local market or vintage stores.

• Candlelight is beautiful at night, transforming a room into a comfortable and relaxed space. Turn them on even when you’re alone.

• Sit down and read a book, poetry, a magazine. You can easily spend an absorbing hour or so. Or catch up on movies you made but never had time to watch.

• Spend an hour in the garden. A little effort can introduce color, fresh produce, and a place to relax, either alone or with friends and family.

• Arrange to go for a walk or join the mailing lists for free concerts, exhibits, and entertainment. Invite your friends and improve your social life.

• Relax in the bathroom with those scented candles you’ve been saving for a special occasion. Put on relaxing music.

• A short 20-minute nap can help de-stress, lift your spirits, and revitalize you for the rest of the day.

• Allow time to call a friend. Make an infusion or pour yourself a drink and catch up on each other’s news as you reconnect.

The treats built into each day can provide you with rewards and help you better manage stress. When you feel relaxed, calm, and more positive about yourself, you eliminate the need for excess caffeine, alcohol, sugar, and toxic quick fixes.