The Frugal Lifestyle
  • Blog
  • Tips
  • Cash Back
  • Savings
    • Home Decor
    • Housing
    • Health
    • Finance
    • Food
    • Utilities
    • Technology
    • Insurance
    • Auto
    • Shopping
    • Travel
  • Store
  • Freebies
  • Coupons
  • About

Welcome Frugalistas!

What exactly does frugal lifestyle mean?  I believe it’s being smart and savvy in your choices. Prioritize and take control of what’s important to you and you will come out ahead.

This blog and website offers frugal tips and money saving ideas to help you live a richer life. Save money on everyday living. Start living the "Frugal Lifestyle" today.

Spend Less  • Earn More • Live Better

Top 10 Benefits of Having a Frugal Lifestyle

2/19/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
Share

​There are many reasons to start a frugal lifestyle. For people who haven't dipped their toes in the frugal pool yet but want to, it begins with consciously committing to practicing this way of life so that it becomes second nature.

I hope to empower others to adopt this lifestyle without giving up what they are accustomed to. Being frugal not only saves money, but energy and time as well.

Here are my Top 10 Benefits of why someone should consider living a frugal existence... if not all the time, at least some of time. It starts with choosing to do it versus having to do it. Some of the wealthiest people in the world are frugal and most live below their means.

10. SAVE MONEY
This is the obvious reason for most people. Choose to spend your money wisely and smartly only the necessary things in life. But allow yourself a special treat when you have the extra cash in your budget.

9. A SIMPLER LIFE
Life is less chaotic and easier to manage when you pare down to just the essentials you need. Avoid buying "stuff" that has no meaning or purpose. Start by decluttering, purging and eliminating things that have no room in your life.  Start organizing and consolidating things so that they are easier to find or manage, which in turn saves you time and money. Read more about ways to simplify your life here.

8. TIME FREEDOM
Learn to say no to invitations, favors, tasks, etc.. that zap precious time and energy out of you. By politely declining parties or other events from someone you are not exceptionally close to, you save money on gifts and gas, which equates to time for more important things in your life. By choosing how, when and whom you spend your time with gives you more freedom overall.

7. SAVE ENERGY
By simply unplugging from your phone, the internet, the TV or any other electronic device, you not only save money on energy cost, but you have more time and life energy to enjoy life beyond technology. Read more about tips on how to save money on energy costs here.

6. LESS DEBT
While it would be nice to have zero debt, most people have some form of debt.  Tackle your lower balanced loans or debts first and try to pay those off right away. Once you've eliminated or at least reduced your debt, you will feel a sense of freedom that's priceless!

5. EARN SOME CASH
Why not make some extra money by selling unwanted items around the house. My best tip is to sell your stuff via Craigslist or the LetGo app. It's free and it's easy. Another way to make a little cash and declutter you house is to have a garage sale. Any item that does not sell can be donated to Goodwill or your favorite thrift store, which is tax deductible. Check more ways to earn extra cash here.

4. EAT HEALTHIER
By eating out less (especially at fast food restaurants) and preparing meals at home is one way to not only save money but also make healthier choices. Although dining out to a favorite restaurant is always a treat, it can be costly vs. making food at home. Read more on how to buy and eat organic foods without breaking the bank here.

3. LOSE SOME WEIGHT
What an awesome benefit... by choosing eat healthier (see #4), one can actually lose some weight. By eating foods that are either organic or fresh vs. processed our bodies tend to burn more fat. Check out this option for a healthy weight loss supplement.

2. GOOD FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
Instead of throwing stuff away, evaluate whether you can either recycle, repurpose, or reuse it somehow. For example, by bringing bottles, cans, newspapers, cardboard, etc... to your local recycle center you can also get cash. Also, if you have a piece of furniture that just needs a new coat of paint, why buy a new and expensive piece when the one you have is perfectly fine. Less waste means we can all make a contribution to save our planet. 

1. A RICHER LIFE
Be smart in how you choose to spend your money, your time and your energy. Prioritize and take control of what's really important, by accomplishing this, you can truly enjoy a more rewarding and richer life.
​
Picture
    
Share
     
0 Comments

Agony of the Feet Solution: Soul Insole (Review)

2/12/2018

0 Comments

 
Picture
Share
     
Back in high school, I wrote an essay titled "The Agony of the Feet" - a play on words from the saying "agony of defeat". The essay was about how my feet would hurt every time I wore high heeled shoes. I have avoided wearing any shoes that had heels higher than 2 inches. I have worn mostly flats or shoes with low heels ever since then. In hindsight this probably contributed to my "flat feet", which I will explain later.

Within the last year I've been experiencing heel pain, which I believe is plantar fasciitis. I tried many natural remedies to "heal" my heel pain, such as: apple cider vinegar foot soaks, heel stretches, as well as several sessions of Myofascial Release Therapy or MFR. What exactly is MFR? It's a manual physical therapy (not massage) that connects deeply with the connective tissue (fascia), using sustained traction or compression for an opportunity to heal long term. Although I got some benefit from these sessions, I honestly did not feel any major change in my heel pain. I decided to halt my sessions, since they weren't giving me any relief and was not financial savvy either. I was also considering the chiropractic route, but after a "free consultation" with one chiropractor, I decided I would try to find a better and a more affordable solution.

So my search continued for a frugal way to eliminate or at least manage my heel pain. I bought several insoles and heel cups from various companies, but I ended up either returning them or never using them again! I found out through my research that I have over pronation or flat feet. Over the years of walking and wearing shoes without enough support, my arches have collapsed, which caused extreme stress on my plantar fascia. 

Although most "experts" will say that wearing flip flops are a big no-no for plantar fasciitis, I have found great relief with Dawgs' original flip flops. However, I can't wear flip flops everyday - and I have several shoes that I like and would prefer to not have to buy several new pairs of shoes with arch support. I do however have a pair of Skechers that are my go to slip on sneakers when I walk the dog.
​
Picture
   
I was so happy when Laina Gossman, CEO and founder of Soul Insole reached out to see if I was interested in receiving a pair of their insoles - then do a review about my experience. Needless to say, I said yes! The Soul Insole is a unique washable, reusable, micro-sized orthotic that adds support and comfort for various hard to fit shoes and sandals. This sounds like the answer to my dilemma of not having to buy new pairs of shoes!

I've been using the Soul Insole shoe bubble for a few weeks now. So far, I feel they've address my flat feet issue because the shoe bubble provides arch support where I need them most. I can now wear my favorite pairs of shoes and be comfortable all day! There's adhesive under each insole which helps keep them in place, but I can still adjust them if necessary.

I wash my insoles after a couple of days wear. I love how easy it is to keep them clean - just rinse under water and magically the adhesive regenerates! Their website also states that they can be worn with sandals and flip flops. 

Since my arches have collapsed, my entire alignment is off.  I have been experiencing some pain in my left hip area. Since wearing the insoles, I have noticed that my posture is slightly better. One of their many benefits is that the insoles promotes good balance and alignment.
    
Picture
    
I addition to wearing the Soul Insole shoe bubble to help relieve heel pain, I also rub Arnica Cream on my heels and ankles every night before going to bed. I believe I have found the best solutions that work for me. I have saved hundreds, if not thousands of dollars on products and treatments by combining different non-invasive and affordable methods of healing my "agony of the feet".
​
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, where I earn a small commission when purchased thru my link.
 
Share
     
0 Comments
        
         
    Picture

    ​Subscribe Here

    Enter your email address:

    Delivered by FeedBurner

        

    Trending Posts

    Some of our popular articles
    Picture
    • 13 Ways To Make Extra Money At Home
    ​
    Picture
    • Save a Life and Get Paid to Foster a Rescue Dog
    ​

    Picture
    • 8 Ways To Save Without Compromising Your Lifestyle
    ​
    Picture
    • 13 Money Tips From The Amish
    ​

    Picture
    • Top 10 Thrifty Travel Tips
    ​

    Picture
    • Frugal Picnic Tips & Ideas
    ​

    Picture
    • 6 Ways I Save Money On Hair Care Costs
    ​

    Picture
    • Enrich Your Life With Less
    ​

    Picture
    • 13 Ways to Save Money On Everything
    ​

    Picture
    • Rich Yet Frugal Athletes
    ​

    Picture
    • 5 Bridal Shower Tips
    ​

    Picture
    • My Top 5 Flea Market Decorating Books
    ​
        
    Saving Money Blog Awards 2017 ​


    Blog Archives

    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    February 2013
    January 2013

       

    RSS Feed

         
    View my Flipboard Magazine.
         

    Blog Categories

    All
    Bargains
    Bridal Shower Tips
    Budget Renovations
    Budget Travel
    Cash Back Rewards
    Cash Back Shopping
    Cash-back Shopping
    Coupon Tips
    Deals
    Decorating Ideas
    Discounts
    DIY
    Dollar Store Buys
    Earn Money
    Freebies
    Free Money
    Frugal Beauty
    Frugal Celebrities
    Frugal Gifts
    Frugal Health
    Frugal Home Decor
    Frugal Ideas
    Frugal Living
    Frugal Savings
    Frugal Tips
    Frugal Travel
    Frugal Wedding Tips
    Fun Ideas
    Garage Sale
    Gift Ideas
    Giving Back
    Happiness
    Healthy Living
    Home Based Business
    Home Decor
    Make Money
    Money Savers
    Money Saving Tips
    Network Marketing
    Picnic Tips
    Recycle
    Retirement Tips
    Rewards
    Richer Lifestyle
    Save Money Eating Out
    Savvy Ideas
    Savvy Money
    Side Gigs
    Simplicity
    Smart Tips
    Spend Less
    Tax Tips
    Thrifty Ideas
    Thrifty Tips
    Travel Tips
    Wealthy Living
    Wedding Tips
    Work From Home
    Yard Sale Tips


    Subscribe Here

    Enter your email address:

    Delivered by FeedBurner

          
    Saving Money Blog Awards 2017
       
    ​
         
    Picture
        
    Follow Marissa on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter.
       
    Visit Marissa's profile on Pinterest.
        
         
         
    BeFrugal.com Members
         

    Site Search


    Site Categories

    • Spend Less
    • Earn More
    • Live Better

    • Auto
    • Cash-back
    • Coupons
    • Deals
    • Entertainment
    • Finance
    • Food
    • Freebies
    • Giveaways
    • Health
    • Home Decor
    • Housing
    • Insurance
    • Money
    • Rebates
    • Retirement
    • Resources
    • Rewards
    • Savings
    • Shopping
    • Technology
    • Tips
    • Travel
    • Utilities
    • Websites

    Picture
    What does living frugally mean to me? Well, it does NOT mean being cheap, quite the contrary, I believe it’s being smart in your choices, such as how you spend your money everyday. Prioritize and take control of what’s important to you. I always strive to spend less on almost everything.

    In this challenging economy, some of us have had to cut back on our expenses. Wouldn't it be nice to still have the things or services you want and need but not have to pay full price or even better, get them for free? 

    Choose value and quality over quantity or fads and you will come out ahead. The great benefit of being frugal is that it eliminates waste and clutter which in turn helps our environment.  By doing simple changes towards more “green” and frugal ways, together we can make an impact on our planet. 
        

    Real Savings 
    +
    Extra Earnings =
    A Richer Life

        
    Picture
         
         
    Saving Money Blog Awards 2017
         
    Picture
        
       

    About Me

    Picture
     Hi, my name is Marissa Winfrey and I have been living the frugal life ever since I can remember. I have always looked for great bargains and getting the best value for my money without compromising style and quality.

    My background is in visual display and interior decorating. It’s always been my objective to recommend cost effective solutions to my clients. I, of course, practice what I preach! I have furnished my own homes mostly with furnishings and decor items from my own little vintage boutique, estate sales, discount stores, flea markets, yard sales, thrift stores and even curbside discarded furniture!

    My frugal practice goes beyond the home. I offer money saving tips on just about everything, from shopping to travel and everything in between. I hope my blog and website will inspire everyone to be their own Frugalista.

    Follow me on Facebook, Google+ 
    and Twitter.
        
    Picture


    Subscribe Here

    Enter your email address:

    Delivered by FeedBurner

    RSS Feed

         
    Picture
         
         
        

    My Fave Links


    • Amazon 

    • GoDaddy

    • Groupon

    • LivingSocial 

    • MrRebates 

    • Priceline​

         


    Site Categories

    • Spend Less
    • Earn More
    • Live Better

    • Auto
    • Cash-back
    • Coupons
    • Deals
    • Entertainment
    • Finance
    • Food
    • Freebies
    • Giveaways
    • Health
    • Home Decor
    • Housing
    • Insurance
    • Money
    • Rebates
    • Retirement
    • Resources
    • Rewards
    • Savings
    • Shopping
    • Technology
    • Tips
    • Travel
    • Utilities
    • Websites
        
        
        
    Endless Vacation Rentals
         
        
    Picture
       
       
        
        

    Real Savings 
    +
    Extra Earnings =
    A Richer Life

        
    Picture
        
    Mr. Rebates
          
        
    Weebly - Websites, eCommerce & Marketing in one place.
       
    Picture
         
        

TheFrugalLifestyle.com

Real Savings + Extra Earnings = A Richer Life

      

Sign Up To Receive Updates Here

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner

     
Read and learn about useful tips and tricks from experts on how to live "the frugal lifestyle" everyday!  Check out the books below, to see more of my top picks of frugal and financial savvy books, please visit The Frugal Book Store.
​
Picture
Living The Savvy Life:
The Savvy Woman's Guide to Smart Spending and Rich Living
​

It's Not About Being Cheap.  Living the Savvy Life isn't about being a cheapskate, a miser or a tightwad.  It's about having security and peace of mind by spending less than you make.  It's about knowing where you stand financially on a daily basis so you can make intelligent fiscal decisions. 

​It's about being penny-wise on the things that are less important to you so you can spend money on the things that are important to you. It's about choosing to purchase only the things that you love and make you happy.  
It's about finding, attaining and maintaining balance.  Are you ready to start Living the Savvy Life?

   
Picture
​Thrifty: 
Living the Frugal Life with Style


Best-selling author Marjorie Harris offers a timely and entertaining guide to living the richly frugal life. From tips on how to haggle to becoming a frugal fashionista, maintaining your home on a budget, and thrifty gardening, travel, and entertainment, Harris provides essential guidelines to living a quality life on less. Written in her trademark witty, engaging, and accessible style, Thrifty is packed with simple and savvy tips drawn from Harris' own fulfilled, thrifty experience. Bonus tips come from renowned experts such as best-selling author Margaret Atwood, chef Jamie Kennedy, actor R. H. Thomson, travel writer Sylvia Fraser, and The Globe and Mail's style columnists.
  
Picture
How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free: 
Retirement Wisdom That You Won't Get from Your Financial Advisor
​

How to Retire Happy, Wild, and Free offers inspirational advice on how to enjoy life to its fullest. The key to achieving an active and satisfying retirement involves a great deal more than having adequate financial resources; it also encompasses all other aspects of life -- interesting leisure activities, creative pursuits, physical well-being, mental well-being, and solid social support. 

What sets this retirement book apart from all the others is its holistic approach to the fears, hopes, and dreams that people have about retirement. This international bestseller (over 110,000 copies sold in its first edition) goes way beyond the numbers that is often the main focus of retirement planning in most retirement books.
   
To see more of my top picks of frugal and financial savvy books, please visit The Frugal Book Store.

​

Sign Up To Receive Updates Here

Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner