January 14, 2008

Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise

Feel Better Already Guide ’08

New year, new you, right? Time to whip yourself into shape — physically, mentally, and maybe even emotionally. And if you save some money on the way, you won’t complain.

Walk to Work
Want another great excuse to ditch the gym membership? Get up an hour earlier and walk to work. Not only will you save gas, but you’ll walk off your ass (literally) and clear your head for the workday. Organize a walking group if you live near (or actually like) your colleagues.

Beat a Dead Horse
We know that you know that smoking is bad. Make this the year you kick the butt with help from online support group determinedtoquit.com. What? Like it’s any weirder than gum, the patch, or cold turkey?

Don’t Swallow
Drinking, while fun, makes you feel very not fun the morning after. Instead, take that six-pack into the shower and dump it on your hair. Beer does wonders for tresses — and you won’t smell like a brewery in the morning.

Idle Hands
Once your mits are off the smokes and booze, keep idle hands busy with a new hobby:  lamp working or bead making. Classes at Philadelphia Glass Works start in February and continue through spring.

Recycle
Philly doesn’t make recycling easy. To avoid getting a ticket (and because it’s the right thing to do), find out your pickup schedule at recyclingpays.phila.gov.

Detox
With all the money you’ll save from not drinking, gassing, and smoking, you’ll earn a splurge: the totally relaxing Harmony Essence Massage at Rescue Rittenhouse Spa. Feeling extra virtuous? Add cupping to draw out lingering toxins. Not that you’ll have any.