‘Tis the season for taking the first action steps of the latest New Year’s resolutions, albeit with a bit of a twist this time around, courtesy of our current economic woes. Or maybe not. I heard someone say recently that he thought the economy would drive people out of some of their New Year’s resolutions faster, but I’m not so sure, at least when it comes to health and fitness.
On the nutrition front, a lot of people are trading down and buying groceries at Aldi and Wal-Mart. I haven’t seen yet how this is affecting health food chains like Whole Foods, if at all, but if people are shopping at a Whole Foods in this economy, then they’re committed to the lifestyle. Those who are trying to buy healthy at a Wal-Mart aren’t likely to be swayed off their resolutions as a result of finances. Will power maybe, but not that.
I think the economy is similarly a non-issue for resolutions pertaining to exercise. For example, if people have a health club membership, then they’re already paying for access – they simply need to take advantage of it. If they don’t have a membership, then they’re not likely to start right now due to the economy. That’s not to say that there won’t be people out there doing exactly that.
Overall, even in these tough times, I think one’s success with health-related New Year’s resolutions still comes down to personal behavior and one’s support system, not personal finances.
There’s healthy food sold at Wal-Mart?! I had no idea. Feels a bit like an oxymoron. I have seen some healthier foods sold at Costco, like Lara Bars and Organic Olive oil.
I have to agree with your last paragraph! I started off my new year with a 10-day cleanse (Master Cleanse), so I feel extra invested in my resolution to health and wellness. Committed to continuing a healthy lifestyle during this recession, my family continues to shop for our “healthy” food at Whole Foods, our local Co-op and Trader Joe’s. The trick for us is to buy mostly whole foods from the produce section and bulk food isles. Any pre-packaged foods we get are gluten-free. And we look for sales at each store. Being vegan helps a lot too, but my husband isn’t there (yet!). So frozen fish, chicken and cheeses at Trader Joe’s is a good bargain. And I should mention that TJ’s has great prices on their packaged nuts and dried fruits. Some are even organic and sulfur-free!
As for exercise, I run on the road. But when it’s minus twelve outside … my husband suggested joining a gym. I could argue that joining a gym to keep us exercising and healthy, in the long run, would save us money … but what about right now? Rebounder in the living room? Maybe so.
Winter warmness to you!