pwfm Men & Money

Splurges That Won't Break the Bank

Times are tough, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up all the comforts of life. According to WebMD, there are some inexpensive splurges you can indulge in that won’t break the bank, and will boost your well-being.

• Sweet treats. Chocolate sales are up about 25 percent, according to the National Confectioners Association. It’s a small indulgence for people looking for comfort, and a quick fix that’s full of healthy antioxidants. Old-fashioned retro candies, like lemon drops and Lifesavers, are also popular and seeing a rise in sales, because people associate them with childhood memories and happier times.
• Entertaining at home. People aren’t eating out as often as they used to, but they’re still socializing - they just do it in their homes. Jacob Maurer is vice president of Sur La Table, an upscale kitchenware store. He says people are having potluck parties and signing up for the basic cooking classes they offer. We still want to spend time with friends and family, and doing it at home saves a lot of money.
• Relaxation. Yoga classes and spas visits are doing well in a nation that needs to destress and unwind. Even pricier resorts - like Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona - are still doing good business. Lynne Brown is the spa’s sales manager, and she says some people are booking at the last minute because they feel they absolutely MUST get away from daily stress to regain both balance and focus in their lives.

So if you’ve cut back on big ticket items such as designer clothing, theme-park visits and vacations, these more affordable splurges might be just what you need.