Discovering Health: You Don't Need Wealth, Just Patience and Effort
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Chapter 1: The Health-Wealth Connection
Wealth plays a role in health, and this can be observed by contrasting low-income neighborhoods with affluent ones. Living in a prosperous city while also residing in a council estate, I witness these disparities firsthand. My experience working at a local children’s center in a disadvantaged area brought this to light. During school holidays, we organized healthy eating workshops that were popular, largely due to the free food we offered. We aimed to educate families about healthy options, and it was rewarding to see children enjoy fruits and vegetables, even if parents later rewarded them with sweets.
So, what’s hindering a healthy lifestyle: financial constraints or lack of knowledge? Likely a combination of both. However, my journey has shown me that wealth isn’t a prerequisite for good health. There were times when my cupboards were bare, and I struggled to afford basic activities for my children. Yet, even while living in a women’s refuge with just benefits, I managed to maintain my health. Now, although my financial situation has improved, I still prioritize affordable ways to stay fit. Why spend more than necessary?
Being healthy doesn’t require designer gym wear, expensive memberships, or lavish retreats. You don’t need to splurge on trendy superfoods or organic products. If you’re unable to afford these luxuries, don’t let that discourage you from pursuing a healthy lifestyle. There are many effective ways to enhance your well-being that won’t drain your wallet. Most of these methods demand effort rather than money, and while the results may take time, they are definitely worthwhile.
Chapter 2: Simple Strategies for Better Health
Water
Increasing your water intake can boost energy levels, improve skin clarity, reduce mood swings, alleviate headaches, and promote healthier digestion. It’s an incredibly simple and cost-effective choice!
Fasting
Intermittent fasting involves abstaining from food for extended periods, typically 13-15 hours for me between dinner and breakfast. This approach not only offers numerous health benefits but can also lead to weight loss by naturally reducing calorie intake.
Walking
Make walking your primary mode of transport, and opt for brisk walks whenever possible. Many people neglect the benefits of walking, moving instead from the couch to the car without considering the health benefits of simply walking more.
Outdoor Workouts
A good pair of trainers and a supportive sports bra are all you need to exercise outdoors. I love high-intensity interval training (HIIT) in my local green spaces, taking advantage of stairs and hills, which is completely free.
Mindful Eating
Practice saying no to unhealthy snacks between meals. This can be tough at first, but gradually reducing your intake of fast food and high-calorie treats will yield significant savings—both financially and calorically.
Exercise Apps
I invest £95 annually in an exercise app, which gives me access to classes and wellness tips. Alternatively, countless free resources are available on platforms like YouTube, allowing you to create a personalized workout routine that fits your schedule.
Affordable Nutrition
Healthy eating doesn't have to break the bank. Stock up on canned beans, fish, and frozen vegetables, which are nutritious and budget-friendly. Be mindful of portions and try to repurpose leftovers into new meals.
The Key Ingredients: Patience and Effort
Good health demands a long-term commitment. Although each healthy choice adds up, visible results may take time. Focus on how you feel rather than just numerical measurements.
Effort is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Even the most disciplined individuals have days when motivation wavers, but as you start to see improvements, the process becomes easier. Small achievements should be celebrated, and remember that occasional indulgences won’t derail your progress.
Ultimately, while wealth can provide easier access to resources and options for health, you don’t need it to thrive. Patience and effort are invaluable, and they come at no financial cost. For ongoing inspiration and motivation to prioritize your health, consider subscribing to my newsletter: Rediscover You | Lisa Johnson | Substack.
