Ways to Live Healthier on a Dime

Another excuse for me not to lose weight and start living a healthier lifestyle was that I couldn't afford a whole new wardrobe, but yet, for some reason, I could find the money to buy things when I got too big for them. Finally I said no more excuses! And you know what? It is not more expensive to live a healthier lifestyle.

1. When it comes time to buy new clothes, after you've lost weight, shop thrift stores and yard sales. Last week, Gary and I got 22 items of clothing and only spent $90, by just shopping at our local thrift stores. At least four of them were new with tags and all the rest looked brand new. Now that we are smaller, we seem to find more things we like and that fit us. I think everyone should shop thrift stores before buying new.

2. Don't waste money on a gym, unless that is something you really enjoy doing. Take walks in your local parks, many of which are free to get into, or walk in your own neighborhood (it's a great way to meet the neighbors). Rent workout DVDs or better yet, loan them out at your local library for free. If you really like the DVD, you can buy it, but otherwise, just rent a new one every week and you will not get bored in your workouts and your body will not hit that plateau since you are always changing things up. Dumb bells are a great way to gain muscle when you work out and some experts believe that dumb bells are actually better than using machines in the gym since you have full control of your muscle movements with no guidance from a machine. You can also do a strenuous weights workout and raise your heart rate at the same time, therefor reducing the amount of traditional cardio that is needed in a week.

3. Practice deep breathing exercises. It reduces stress and can raise your heart rate slightly if done properly, which in turn can help keep your metabolism boosted. Just 5-10 minutes a day, eyes closed, concentrating on your own breathe can be oddly rewarding. Give it a try. And guess what, it's free!

4. Take up a hobby that helps keep you active. It doesn't need to be an expensive hobby, but hobbies generally reduce our stress levels and improve quality of life. Bird watching, hiking, gardening, site seeing in your community, and digital photography are all good hobbies that don't cost much to get started. Keeping busy with a hobby is also good if you like to snack a lot. Keeping your hands busy with other things, keeps the pounds from packing onto your hips. Also, keeping your mind active, can help reduce the signs of aging.

5. Walk or ride a bike when possible. This saves on wear and tear to your vehicle, saves on gas, and gives you the added benefit of exercise. Consolidate your trips to the store, to save even more. If you do have to drive, park far away to get the extra exercise. Every little bit helps.

If you missed my post a few days ago about Eating Healthier on a dime, you can check it out here.