3 Steps to Better Health and Wealth

Actor Hill Harper redefines the meaning of wealth in his book, The Wealth Cure, helping readers understand how financial security and health can translate to wealth in every aspect of their lives. Very often, the two are intrinsically connected. Below are three steps to improve health and wealth.

Step 1: The Rule of 15

Improving your health and saving some extra money doesn’t have to be a Herculean feat. The goal of the Rule of 15 is to walk 15 minutes a day and shave $15 off your daily spending. By walking 15 minutes a day, you could lose up to 15 pounds in a year. If you pocket $15 a day instead of spending it, this can add up to an annual savings of $5,475. Here are a few suggestions for saving up:

• Eat your breakfast at home, or pack it, as well as lunch, to go. A typical breakfast and lunch will cost you about $13 a day. Not only will you save money, you’ll save on calories and avoid hidden salts and sugars.
• Spend less on groceries by passing on brand names. Buy the store brand or generic version instead. In many cases, this can save you about $2 per item. It might sound small, but it all adds up.

Step 2: Skinny Foods Equal a Fat Wallet

Tons of nutritious foods cost less than $2. Think of stocking up on whole wheat pasta, frozen veggies, eggs, canned beans and canned salmon (a good source of omega-3s). Even with this simple list of foods, you can make great meals for less: salmon pasta with veggies or a simple spinach omelet. Click here for a canned salmon burger recipe.

Step 3: Volunteer

Giving your time to others may not sound like the direct path to a better-looking bank account and improved health, but it’s an important step in the right direction. Research shows that those who help others live healthier lives, including having a lower risk of heart disease and depression; volunteering may even improve longevity. As a positive side effect, happier people are less likely to binge on food or spending. Volunteer twice a month; mark those dates in your calendar and keep those appointments. For more on the health benefits of volunteering, click here.