Upkeep and saving money

I've recently been thinking about all the things we do, or should be doing, to maintain our bodies, houses, cars, and environment that also saves us money. For instance, flossing and brushing prevent cavities, but not everybody does that regularly. It only takes a couple minutes per day, and very little money to maintain. On the other hand, not flossing or brushing regularly could lead to cavities, which would cost at least a couple of hundred dollars to repair. Another example is getting the oil changed in the car. Sure, it's $30 about 2-3 times a year, but if it keeps your car running well it is definitely worth it.
I try and eat well, maintain my health, see my doctor at least once a year for a check-up and exam, clean my house and take care of my car, but there are definitely more things I could be doing that take very little time and money.

1. I could take vitamins regularly. Sure, I eat well, but sometimes I have a week or two where I'm so swamped with work or other activities I resort to eating whatever I can get my hands on. Calcium and Vitamin D (milk products) are usually the first to go, along with Vitamin C (fruits) and other vitamins and minerals that my body needs to maintain a healthy immune system and function regularly. I've started taking a one-a-day vitamin specifically for women, and hope I can keep this good behavior up. If I keep my health in good order, that translates to less co-pays for doctors visits, less prescription medication, and better productivity at work...which all translate to saving me money down the road. 
   
2. Exercise on a regular basis. I go through periods where I will exercise 4-6 days a week, eat well, and be happy. For me, exercise is a release and I usually turn into a crab monster if I don't do it. Although, for some reason I go though periods of lethargy and lack of motivation, and then have to get a kick in the butt to get started again. I have to remind myself that even a brisk walk or yoga counts as exercise, which will help my body be stronger and healthier, and keep my mind clear and happy.
   
3. Get enough fruits and veggies in, even when I don't have the time to cook. It's easy for me to rely on carbohydrates when I'm feeling stressed or overworked, which is definitely not the healthiest things I could be eating. Planning ahead, cooking for the week, and having healthy snacks on hand is a way to combat unhealthy choices under times of stress. I will also save money when I bring healthy snacks with me to work because I won't be tempted to run down and grab a bagel with cream cheese in a crunch. I need to make a conscious effort of having frozen vegetables on fruit on hand that are easy to prepare when I'm stretched for time. Or, if I don't have the time to go grocery shopping for healthy choices, there are always convenience stores and small markets that sell fruits I can add in to my day. I do end up paying more (probably only about 50 cents), but if it's at the cost of my health I'm willing to make that sacrifice every once in a while.
   
4. Take better care of the car. I don't drive very much, take it in for regular oil checks, and have been lucky so far to not have any major repairs. I definitely need to replace my windshield wipers, clean out some junk from the inside, and check the tire pressure more regularly. The last one is especially important, it will help me save money on gas and will help my car to continue running smoothly.
   
5. Wear my night guard every night. I am a chronic teeth-grinder and jaw-clencher, which means I am slowly wearing down the enamel on my teeth, making them more susceptible to cavities and breakage. A mouth guard from the dentist can be pretty pricey, even with health insurance, but it benefits me in so many ways. I will have less of a chance of having to get work done on my teeth, it saves me from waking up with a morning headache, and is fit to my mouth in order to provide the best support and alignment for me. Like most of us, I hate going to the dentist, so if I can avoid it I will and I'll be saving myself some money. 

These are just a couple of things I can start doing to maintain all aspects of my life, which in the long run will help me to be more healthy, and save money. I'm sure there is much more I could be doing, and will have to be on the lookout for items that are easy to keep running smoothly, and will save me money when I do so.