4 Simple Tips: A Guide to Affordable Health and Wellness

If you’re looking to improve your health, it’s best to use tips that fit into your daily routine. No crash dieting or expensive gym memberships here! There are many easy, affordable ways to prioritize your physical and mental health.

The best solution is often the simplest. In this guide, we offer up 4 practical and cost-effective tips to assist in maintaining a healthy lifestyle for the long haul.

1. Plan Your Meals Ahead of Time
   Eating well is key to a healthy lifestyle and is very doable on a budget. Try planning your meals for the week and making a shopping list to avoid impulsive and unhealthy buys. Buy basics like rice and beans in bulk to save money in the long run. Buy fresh, in-season fruits and veggies if possible. There are a number of apps that can notify you of what’s seasonal right now. You can also freeze any items to eat later and lengthen their freshness. Or, opt for already frozen options. They are just as healthy as fresh and can be cheaper for out-of-season foods. While eating out is convenient, it’s best to cook at home as much as you can for cost-effective and nutritious meals.
2. Take Advantage of the Outdoors and Free At-Home Workouts
   You don’t need a gym to stay fit! Walking, jogging and hiking are excellent ways to stay active. All you need to do is step outside. Plus, they allow you to explore your community and take advantage of the mental benefits nature offers (it’s true - exercise and mental health go hand-in-hand). When the weather’s not great or if you’re not particularly outdoorsy, turn to your Assurance Wireless free smartphone for easy exercises to do at home. Apps are full of free workout videos and routines, ranging from yoga to martial arts. Many fitness content creators offer effective exercises that require no equipment at all.
3. Practice Mindful Meditation
   Tending to our mental and emotional health is just as important as maintaining physical health. Mental health exercises like meditation are a great way to boost your wellbeing with no cost involved. You don't need any special equipment or memberships. Find a quiet space, sit comfortably and focus on your breath or a calming mantra (a repeated phrase). There are many free resources for guided meditation. Search for online videos and apps on your smartphone. Regular mindfulness practice has been linked to reduced stress, improved focus and better overall mental health.¹
4. Connect with Your Community
   Beyond meditation, there are many low-cost or free mental health resources available. Look for local support groups, community centers or non-profit organizations that provide counseling services at reduced rates or even for free. Libraries often host free workshops or events focused on mental wellness. If you prefer an online option, look for social media groups and mobile apps that offer support. Connecting with others who share similar experiences can provide a valuable support system. And, of course, use your phone to stay connected to friends and family. Relationships are a key part of staying healthy!

At Assurance Wireless, we know connection is a huge factor in health and wellness. We’re on a mission to connect our customers with valuable resources through smartphones and the power of T-Mobile’s cellular network and smartphones, from fitness apps to guided meditations and more. You may be eligible for our free service!

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Apps and suggestions are for informational purposes only and are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider. Government assistance program. Limit one discount per eligible household & is non-transferable. See assurancewireless.com for offer details and terms and conditions. Restrictions apply.

^[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3679190/