Best things in life are free...
AS Coco Chanel once said: “The best things in life are free. The second best things are very, very expensive.”
I’m sticking with the first bit of her argument, because the stuff you can’t buy is the best.
What’s more I’m sick of the doom and gloom of talking about inflation and how we can’t afford to live.
We need to realise that we don’t need all the stuff and things that we are made to think we need.
Experiences are worth more than any bit of gold. For example last weekend I went on a romantic trip with my partner John to Co Wicklow.
The Garden of Ireland has it all, from luscious woodland walks to incredible beaches and it’s steeped in history.
More importantly, most things you can do there are free.
We climbed the Sugarloaf. It was moody and atmospheric.
There were a group of lads from India at the summit banging out the tunes, another group from Spain told me they had heard all about the stunning views.
During our stay we also walked through the incredible Kilmacurragh Gardens where the rhododendrons are famous.
After a romantic overnight stay at the Glenview we went for a woodland walk
which is good for the soul. Green and blue exercise are buzzwords now.
Woodland and forest bathing is being lauded for health benefits and there are so many trails and walks around Ireland that won’t cost you a penny.
Continuing our romantic theme we went for a sauna at the Fad Saoil Saunas, which cost us all of a tenner, and then jumped into the Irish sea.
Sea swimming exploded during the pandemic and it’s here to stay – and it’s completely free of charge.
Everyone is complaining about the price of stuff, but bring a picnic and savour the Irish outdoors.
Instead of giving out about the weather wear the right clothing and you can do anything in Ireland.
I was thinking about all the wonderful things we have that don’t cost a cent, such as hugs and touch.
Hugs lower your blood pressure and boost your heart.
Hanging out with family and friends is free.
Studies show that friendships bring huge health perks from increased longevity to improved mood.
With all the bad news it’s hard to smile, but the more you smile the more you feel joy and a greater sense of connectedness.
Knowing smiles with your loved one are the best there is and kissing releases oxytocin, the cuddle chemical.
Belly laughing is free and laughing beats stress and helps to boost memory.
Happiness is a good night’s sleep and nothing beats this free tonic.
So hug your friend, go for a hike, jump into the sea, kiss passionately before nodding off to powerful dreamland... all without draining your pocket.