5 Easy Ways to Cut Costs and Boost Your Health
By Sandy Schroeder
Staying healthy but not blowing the budget can be an ongoing tug-of-war, but it doesn’t have to be, according to Carolyn Duncan, MD, an active health advocate. She suggests taking a few simple cost-cutting steps.
Eat Lots of Produce and Eat Local
Choose your favorite fresh fruits and vegetables at your local farmer’s market, local food stands and supermarket produce section. Fill your basket with brightly colored produce backed up with the best buys in poultry, fish, or lean meats and low fat dairy. Build your menu around budget-pleasing seasonal buys.
Hit the Mat at Home to Stay Fit
Make your mat your fitness destination for your favorite exercises or yoga poses. Once you make the mat a part of your fitness routine you can use it around the clock at home or away. Skip the costly studio yoga sessions or gym fees. If you still want the input of classes and instructors, look for community classes, classes linked to medical centers, or free online sessions.
Rebalance Work and Play
Open the door to a new way of doing business. Start with what makes you happy as you blend your work and play zones. Yes, you still have to show up to do your work, but see if you can start a little earlier to walk before work, or head outside for small breaks during the day. On the weekends, park your electronics and spend time with family and friends. Look for free concerts, museum exhibits and art shows. Or choose wilderness hikes, picnics and bike rides. Stay in touch with your loved ones, and make room for all of the little things in life that really mean the most.
Cut Your Bar Bill and Toast Your Health
Cocktails and nightly brews can take a hefty bite out of the budget as they undermine our health. Hold the toasts down to a glass of wine with dinner or an occasional schooner with pals to keep your health up and your weight down. You’ll probably sleep better, too.
Get Creative and Enjoy the Moment
Give yourself permission to be spontaneous. Some of the best times I have ever had started with an offhand suggestion that spiraled into a fantastic weekend. Finding fun wherever you are takes a little practice. Think about the best times you and your friends and family have had. Weekends may turn out to be taco, barbecue or chili dinners or music and dessert gatherings at home. Evenings after work could emphasize family dinners with no electronics and quiet sessions before bedtime to read or just talk.
Once you start cutting costs and boosting health, one idea may lead to lots more. Just keep looking.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Tampa, Fla.