[photo via]

It was almost impossible to get out of bed this morning. It was still dark outside at 6:00 when the alarm went off, and it was just so cozy under the covers. Getting up and getting going was tough and it's shaping up to be the kind of day where you need a little reward at the end, a small high-five with yourself for pushing through and showing up.

Here are a few of my favourite, cheap (or free) ways to treat myself after a day and a half, because it's just not prudent to buy a new pair of boots every time you think you deserve a prize.

[LUSH bath bomb, $4-$8] // Not only are they inexpensive, but they're indulgent and relaxing. One of my favourite ways to calm down is to run a nice warm bath, light a candle, and pop one of these suckers in the tub. They come in a variety of scents, including some nice calming ones to help you wind down at bedtime. Some are coloured, some are glittery, and there are holiday-themed versions that make perfect little gifts.

[Lindt sea salt dark chocolate bar, $3] // I only enjoy these once or twice a year - I usually get one in my Christmas stocking. They're my absolute favourite chocolate bar. Salty/sweet perfection. And the dark chocolate is really satisfying, so just a square or two is enough, and the bar lasts a long time.

[Balea face masks, $2] // Sometimes when I'm browsing at Shopper's I'll grab a few of these individually packaged face masks (I believe they're $2 each or three for $5, but I might be wrong) and stash them in the bathroom. After a shower, I'll use an exfoliating scrub - St. Ives Apricot Scrub is the one I like best - and pop one of these suckers on for a great little pick-me-up that feels (almost) like a trip to the spa.

[Walk with the dog: FREE] // Spending time outside is said to reduce stress, and the same goes for spending time with animals. Taking a long walk with Rory is the best of both worlds. Even a 30-minute spin around our neighbourhood is a nice energy boost on nights when I'm too tired to put in a good effort at the gym. Walking helps me get my thoughts in order, the fresh air feels good, and there's companionship without the need to engage in a conversation.

[Puzzles: FREE-$10] // I like doing crossword puzzles, sudokus, or cryptoquotes, which I find in magazines, newspapers, or online for free. It's a great distraction, being able to focus on something else other than the day's events. Working on a jigsaw puzzle does it for me, too. Over the holidays I like having a big puzzle on the go - it's an alternative to watching TV or reading on chilly, stormy evenings when you just want to stay in and be cozy, and it's not terribly expensive either. For $10ish, a puzzle keeps you busy for hours! If you need a midday break to refocus, this site has free virtual puzzles each day.