Try these tips top achieve Christmas on a budget this year.
With food and fuel prices soaring, a depressed economy and job insecurity all around us, many families are struggling to make ends meet. On top of this, Christmas only just over a week away, spelling dread for those already under financial strain.
The cost of the season’s festivities, the pressure of shopping for Christmas presents, food and drink, as well as being stretched for time and social demands can often lead to stress which, if not managed, can contribute towards heart disease, stroke and cancer.
Tackle Christmas head on with these seasonal tips to help your pennies go further and have a stress-free Christmas:
-
Shop on-line where possible to save you the hassle of queing, reduce travel expenses and avoid the temptation of making impulse buys. -
Use the internet to compare prices and get the cheapest deal. You can also print the details off and use it to barter down in store.
-
If you have to hit the shops, set your budget in advance, go armed with a list and stick to it – only stray from your list if it’s going save you money.
-
Be savvy and take advantage of in store offers – but, only buy the ones you need or you’ll spend more than you intended.
-
Buy seasonal foods and in bulk to cook and freeze for serving up later. Use leftovers to make hearty soups and broths and bulk out meals with healthy, inexpesive high-fibre foods such as beans and pulses.
-
Get the whole family involved in making and preparing – home made baking, chutneys and jam are easy on your purse and make lovely special gifts for loved ones.
-
Table and tree decorations can be made at a fraction of the cost of bought ones; greetings cards, calendars, party hats and name places – anything that’s hand made is unique and it doesn’t matter if it’s not perfect.
-
Giving a gift using your time and your talent is especially thoughtful and doesn’t have to cost you anything – design a personal gift voucher for a gift of a massage, a manicure, some babysitting, a car wash or walking the dog.
Christmas needn’t put a strain on your heart, with a little careful planning, you can make a big difference to your wallet and your health - make this Christmas a stress-free, budget busting one which you won’t still be paying for in the New Year.
For more information and advice about healthy living, contact Heart Research UK via email lifestyle@heartresearch.org.uk.
