I’ll be the first to admit that we’re all seeking a bit of wellness in our lives. And so we should! Wellness is a state of mental, physical and emotional wellbeing that ultimately defines someone’s health and happiness. What’s interesting though is that it’s become somewhat of a status symbol – something to show off through organic labels, green smoothies and expensive gym tights!
When the idea of being ‘well’ and happy becomes expensive and competitive, it makes looking after yourself seem like a nightmare! Don’t be discouraged by the dollar signs that are roadblocking your chance at wellness. There are many ways to afford wellness no matter who you are!
I truly believe that wellness starts in the kitchen. Let’s begin by looking at food – it’s really the big factor in wellness and can also be a big money drainer! You don’t need to spend $8 on an organic loaf of bread! Programs such as my 12WBT, offer a huge range of low-calorie, low-cost recipes that cost a fraction of other alternatives. I’m talking about meals like our delicious, family-friendly Prawn Pad Thai from 12WBT at only $5.45 and only 300 calories per serve!
Also read: How to Feed Your Family for Less
Secondly, when trying to focus on wellness, planning your meals is going to be a life saver in the long run! Focus on fresh whole foods, portioning your serves and ensuring the calories are within a reasonable limit. This way you’ll set yourself up for success.
If the idea of creating a meal plan feels daunting, I’ve got plenty of free recipes to help. These meal ideas are based around kitchen staples. I’m confident if your supermarket doesn’t have any of these ingredients, your local butcher or greengrocer will!
Through planning comes meal prepping! This is a simple step you can take to ensure you stay on the right path. By meal prepping, you’ll be able to save time and stress. You’ll even get some meals in the freezer for months to come! The temptation is minimised and you’re able to enjoy other things such as time with the kids, a fitness class you’re loving, or even an episode of your favourite show (Yellowstone, anyone?).
But how do you keep pre-prepared meals fresh to last the week, you ask? It’s worth investing in a fridge that packs a lot of punch when it comes to storage capacity AND keeping your ingredients fresh! At 12WBT headquarters, we’ve recently upgraded our fridge to the 635L Side by Side Fridge by LG. Now, if you’re on the hunt for a fridge that ticks all the boxes when it comes to space and freshness, look no further. The team have put it to the test with a bunch of 12WBT recipes and can’t stop raving about it!
Also read: Supermarket Snacks: Here’s What Our Dietitians Recommend
Lastly, don’t be afraid to buy frozen foods! They are often fresher, cheaper and last much longer. Try to buy these in bulk where possible! Avoid expensive snacks and one-off packaged meals. Turn leftovers into creative lunch box meals or work lunches. And why not grow your own fruit, veggies or herbs? You can even make your Breakfast Berry Smoothie with low fat milk, frozen berries and untoasted natural muesli. Fun, fresh and fabulous (and cheap)!
So there you have it. Wellness doesn’t have to be scary – you just need to know what you’re looking for! Wellness starts in the kitchen so get your meal prepping and planning sorted and you’re on your way!
By getting great tips from wellness programs, being a savvy shopper and minimising food wastage, wellness can be yours without breaking the budget. Once you start, you won’t be able to stop. Let’s do this, team!
Mish Xx
Post written in partnership with LG.
