How to Buy Happiness (Part 1)

Part of being smart about money is not just knowing how to save, but also how to spend. After all, money is meant to be spent. But for someone like myself who has such a small discretionary income, spending money is difficult for me so I'm intent on deriving the utmost pleasure from my purchases. In the first installment this two part series I'll share two ways in which I've found that money can in fact, buy happiness.

How? 

Spend your money on experiences not material items.

Why?

The Anticipation- Studies show that the mere anticipation of going on a trip, seeing a concert, or enjoying a good meal boosts people's level of happiness.

Eliminate Comparisons- Every new product on the market (phones, computers, cars, even shoes) are quickly replaced by a newer model. The worth of your purchase is directly correlated to the "newness" of the product and your happiness inevitably decreases as the novelty wears off and others get a newer version of whatever you've got. The same can't be said for the memories you make while taking a painting class or visiting a new city.

Shared Experiences- It's human nature to feel happy while surrounded by the people you love.  And since most experiences involve other people, it's no surprise that more happiness is derived from purchasing an experience rather than material item.

Over the past year, I've challenged myself to spend less on material goods and more on experiences. For a clotheshorse like myself, it's been a bit of a struggle. Last Christmas instead of asking for a gift from my younger brother, I requested he use the money he would have spent on a present to buy a train ticket to visit me in New York. It's hard for me to think of a material good of the same value (about $30) that would have brought me more enjoyment than hanging out with my bro for the day.

Stay tuned for part two where I'll reveal another way that money can buy happiness ;)

Best Affordable Yoga Studio in NYC

I recently got super into doing yoga. I had no trouble finding a yoga studio, there seems to be one on every block, but I had difficulty finding one that I felt was both well led and affordable. My options were either paying $30 for an hour long class or settling for a free one inside a dingy, sketchy studio. I was determined to find a happy medium so I tested out several different studios that offer inexpensive classes. The best one by far is Yoga to the People.

There are so many things to love about Yoga to the People.

1. All skill levels are welcome- There are beginners and people who look like they've been doing yoga all their lives. Instructors encourage participants to modify or intensify any of the poses according to their skill level. 

2. Classes all the time- there are classes all day, every day so it's easy to find one that fits into your schedule. The classes are on a first come, first serve basis and do not require registration. Classes are popular but in the few month's I've been going, I've only been to two or three class where they reached capacity. 

3. So many locations- there are five studios in NYC so it's easy to find one that's close by.

4. Most importantly for this girl...it's inexpensive. None of the classes cost more than $10 and many are donation based. You leave whatever contribution you can in a tissue box on your way out. There is absolutely no judgement! Patrons who don't want to schlep their mat (or don't have one) can rent a mat for just $2.

Check out their website for the full class schedule and enjoy zenning out without spending an arm and a leg.

Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with Yoga to the People in any way and my opinions are entirely my own.

Free Fitness Classes at JCC on January 1st

Looking for a way to jump-start your New Year's Resolution to get in shape? Or maybe just seeking a way to work off the liquid calories you are going to consume on New Year's Eve? You are in luck! The Jewish Community Center at 334 Amsterdam Avenue and 76th St is hosting their annual New Year's Day Fitness Fair tomorrow. Every year, the center opens its doors to the public and hosts an array of fitness classes free of charge. They have classes all day in everything from Zumba to strength training to self defense. Or if you're in the mood for something a bit tamer (or maybe a little hung over), you can try meditation or yoga. They also are offering free individual nutrition counseling and workshops on topics like personal finance management and overcoming trauma. They recommend you sign up online for the classes you are interested in but will accommodate walk-ins on a first come, first serve basis. Check out the list of classes here. Registration is still open so go ahead and sign up before you head out to your NYE party! I've already registered for a couple. Even if I make it to just one, it's good motivation to get out and exercise on a day that I know I would not have otherwise. Happy New Year!

Jewish Community Center

334 Amsterdam Avenue

http://www.jccmanhattan.org/

Why I Love the New York Public Library

Call me a nerd for saying this but the New York Public Library system is one of the best free institutions that this city has to offer. With multiple locations in every neighborhood and borough, the NYPL is much more than just a collection of local libraries. It is one of the most overlooked resources that New Yorkers have at their finger tips. I got a library card last September and my affinity for the library has since grown. Here are a few reasons that the NYPL is so great:

1. Free WiFi- Although I love cozying up in my hole-in-the-wall apartment to get a bunch of computer work done, there are times that I just need to be in a different setting. When you're on the lookout for somewhere to bang out some assigned online reading, catch up on emails, or write that gazillion page paper, your options are a noisy coffee shops or your school lounge. But never fear, pop into any of the New York Public Libraries and you can use their wifi...for free! There are usually comfy chairs and ample desk space to spread out. It's always quiet and no one bothers you to buy another coffee after your fourth hour there.

2.Access to their online catalog- The NYPL's holdings number in the tens of millions. For real, ! googled that!  Their catalog includes everything from academic journals to recently released movies to your favorite magazine to that bestselling book you've been dying to read to Mumford and Sons' new album. Once you have a library card, you can access their entire catalog online and put whatever you're little heart desires on hold. As soon as your local library receives the item, they email you to let you know you can pick it up. And it's all free! You can even renew things online so there's no fear of racking up a bill in overdue fees.

Keep reading for the third and most important reason I love the NYPL and useful links to get you started.