Looking for some new food-free treats?

When stressed, sad, angry or wanting a reward, it's easy to reach for food or alcohol. For some people, emotional eating or drinking can derail the best-laid healthy eating plans and promote a cycle of guilt. Of course there’s nothing wrong with the occasional food treat – but if you feel like you need some treats that aren’t to eat, try these no food, low-cost pick-me-ups:

·       go for a walk with a podcast or audiobook

·       stretch or dance it out

·       call or message a friend

·       visit a park, nature walk or green space

·       people watch at your favourite café

·       take a mental health day

·       watch a movie or favourite series in bed

·       recognise a need to rest, and do it guilt-free

·       make a space at home more beautiful with a new lamp or cushions

·       bring home a new plant

·       play with a pet (yours or someone else's!)

·       daydream about a fun future event

·       paint, draw, doodle, colour in

·       go on a mini road trip

·       wear your "nice" clothes or perfume for no reason

·       look through old photos and reminisce

·       watch the sunset 

·       book a massage or haircut