Holly Frericks
Wellness and self-care are important for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional health, but they can also be expensive. From gym memberships and fitness classes to spa treatments and wellness retreats, the cost of wellness can quickly add up. However, there are several ways you can save money on wellness and still prioritize your health and well-being.
Start It Off Right.
Starting your day off with some positive vibes will help get you in the right frame of mind. There are lots of easy and free things you can do to achieve inner peace. Take 10 minutes to meditate, play some uplifting music in the morning to get your body and mind moving or listen to an inspirational podcast on your way to work. Just making some minor changes in your morning routine can make all the difference to how you mentally and emotionally prepare for your upcoming day!
Your Daily Routine.
One way to save money is to incorporate exercise into your daily routine and, if possible, have an accountability partner to ensure you are thinking outside the box and making wellness a priority. If your job doesn't usually entail a lot of physical labor, you may have to think outside of the box. Some easy ideas are keeping an extra pair of socks and shoes at work, so you are ready to take a walk when time allows. Set a timer every 60 minutes to get up and move and be creative with your surroundings. Try doing some wall seats, desk pushups, calf raises, lunges or squats, take the stairs when possible and just be conscious about not sitting too long at your desk. At lunch, grab your accountability partner and head outside (if the weather permits). Send motivational messages to your partner every few days to keep them and you motivated, accountable and on track.
Mix It Up At Home.
Once you get home, mix it up. You can do some housework, dance while you cook, gardening, walk the dogs, or if you require something a little more structured, there are plenty of YouTube or online fitness apps to access a wide variety of workouts or create your own yoga or meditation practice using resources like podcasts or books that are free. Make a schedule and hang it on your refrigerator or an area you frequently walk past as a reminder of the commitment you made to your self-care.
Shop Around.
If you do choose to invest in a gym membership or fitness classes, be sure to shop around and compare prices. Many gyms and studios offer free joiner months, discounted rates for longer-term commitments or off-peak hours, so it's worth asking about these different options. You can also look for group discounts or promotional offers to save money on wellness activities.
Go Beyond The Physical.
In addition to physical wellness, it's also important to prioritize mental and emotional well-being. One way to save money on these types of wellness activities is to take advantage of free or low-cost resources in your community. Many libraries, schools, and community centers offer free or low-cost workshops or classes on topics such as mindfulness, stress management, and self-care.
If you're interested in more traditional self-care activities, such as spa treatments or massages, there are ways to save money on these services as well. One option is to look for discounted gift certificates or promotional offers from local spas or massage therapists. You can also consider alternative options, such as booking a massage with a student therapist or opting for a shorter session.
Budget For Self Care.
Another way to save money on wellness is to be mindful of your overall spending and make room in your budget for self-care. This may involve cutting back on unnecessary expenses, such as dining out or subscription services, and redirecting those funds towards wellness activities. You can also consider setting a budget for wellness activities and looking for ways to stick to it, such as by opting for lower-cost options or buying in bulk.
Team Up.
Finally, if you can find ways to incorporate this wellness with a loved one, the chances of success are much higher. It also helps that you could possibly share the cost of wellness activities. This can be a great way to save money on things like gym memberships, fitness classes, or spa treatments. It also provides an opportunity to bond and support each other's well-being and successes. Whatever you choose, do it for yourself, your mind, body & soul.
In summary, there are several ways to save money on wellness and still prioritize your health and well-being. Be creative, think outside the box, start moving, get inspired, share your vision and hold yourself accountable. Once you set up a plan that works for you, you can start your journey to achieve emotional, mental & physical wellness. Remember your success may inspire others to start their own wellness journey!