When it comes to being healthy, it’s easy to make excuses why you can’t; From you’re too tired, it’s time consuming, you can’t do it and you just can’t afford it. If that has been you, it’s time to change those thoughts! YOU are so capable of living a healthy, godly lifestyle! Here are a few practical tips to incorporate on your healthy living journey and doing it on a budget!

1. Set realistic and achievable goals. When you are setting goals you need to make sure they are measurable and avoid them being too vague. “I’m going to get healthy” or “I am going to lose 50 lbs in 4 weeks”. The first goal is too vague and won’t be a measurable goal and the second one is just not a healthy or realistic goal for your body. It’s very important to find a perfect balance that will be realistic and empowering. This is usually a good time to pray and ask God to give you revelation on your goals.
2. Exercise outside. Now that it’s getting warmer out, it’s great to get outside! You can hike, walk or run, take your dashing dish workouts outside and enjoy the sunshine! Workouts outdoors are much cheaper than gyms and getting some vitamin D will allow some instant stress relief. Plus, you can control the amount of time you workout based on your schedule.
3. Skip the expensive athletic wear. It isn’t necessary to fill your closet with the most expensive athletic wear to get a good workout in. There are lots of options of athletic wear that range in all price ranges. It is important to feel comfortable/confident in your clothes and skin and invest in a good pair of shoes!
4. Meal Plan. Having a meal plan is an instant time and money saver. Create a menu before you head to the food store and try not to shop on an empty stomach to avoid all of the impulse buys/snacks. Keep to your list and make healthy purchases. There are lots of affordable options for clean foods! If you have a hard time making meal plans, Dashing Dish takes the guess work out of it for you!

It is so important to incorporate a positive community or partner when you are on your health journey. Talk to a friend or spouse and see if you can get them involved and become a support for one another. Always, incorporate God on this journey and make sure that all of your choices be made to honor him and your body. “I choose to eat in a way that glorifies Jesus Christ, not for my own selfish desires.” (Colossians 3:17)