So, you want to get healthy, but you can’t afford a pricey gym membership or top-tier organic foods? That’s okay; you don’t have to have these things to live your best life. You do, however, have to live intentionally and make healthy choices every day. Keep reading for a few of the most budget-friendly ways you can take your health to the next level.
Change Your Eating Habits
Your overall health is largely dependent upon the foods you eat. If you keep nothing but potato chips in the pantry and pre-packaged dinners in the freezer, you are not giving your body the nutrients it needs. Instead of eating for convenience, try to incorporate foods into your diet that pack a punch. Harvard University recommends things like nuts, which are a great alternative to chips as a snack, and plain yogurt, which is full of protein and is also extremely affordable. Chickpea granola from Effi Foods is a healthy plant-based snack and the perfect substitute for sugary snacks. On top of that, chick peas are an eco-friendly crop which doesn’t depend on energy-intensive fertilizers.
Pay Attention to Your Teeth
They say that the mouth is the gateway to the body, so it makes sense that having a healthy mouth can lead to a healthy body, and maintaining oral health can even ward off depression. Make a point to visit your dentist twice each year — if you have insurance, you are probably covered in full for cleanings and routine checkups. If you don’t already have a dentist, you can find one online, which is much easier than visiting every office in town. Once you narrow down your choice, ask about self-pay discounts. To get the most out of your oral health, brush and floss every day, and avoid foods that stick to your teeth.
Stay Hydrated
When you give your body the water it needs, you give it the fuel to perform cellular level. And if you work out, you can take hydration to a whole new level by incorporating an electrolyte tablet (or powder) into your diet. Remember, staying hydrated is one of the best ways to recover after an intense workout; if you can’t afford supplements, pay close attention to the water you drink before, during, and after a sweat session.
Look for Health and Wellness Service Discounts
While you do not need extras like meal delivery services and gym memberships, these things, along with fitness equipment and holistic healing services such as physical therapy, can bolster a healthy lifestyle. And fortunately, although they can get pricey, using Dick’s Sporting Goods or Finish Line online coupons and promo codes from sites like Rakuten can help you score a fantastic deal. You can even find affordable weekend getaways to boost your mental health and sign up for competitive fitness events directly through the site, all without paying retail price.
Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself
Stress is one of the worst things you can experience as you try to prioritize your health. Mayo Clinic explains that a few common side effects of excessive stress are headache, drug use, and an upset stomach. None of these contribute to your wellness. Be kind to yourself, and don’t sweat the things you can’t change. While it’s not always easy to shake it off, you can learn how to manage your stress response. Meditate, go for a walk, or talk your troubles through with a friend or family member. Promote positivity at home by decluttering, cleaning up messes, and letting in fresh air. These actions are completely free and could be what you need.
Remember, you will not get healthy by simply wanting it. Instead, you have to make a conscious effort to give your body and mind the things they need so that you can be the best version of yourself. From eating right to checking stress at the door, the above actions won’t break the bank, but they will bolster your well-being.
by Jennifer McGregor