Whether it's a 30 minute search for parking or a stack of overdue bills, life has a way of throwing you curve balls. Some of these moments require deep introspection and long-term therapy to handle calmly, but we've got a few tricks to help you fake zen. So, the next time you're faced with a "just shoot me (or the guy next to me)" moment, you can channel some RFB om and chill out.

Memorial Day has officially come and gone and summer is on the brink of being here. In LA that means you exchange your Uggs for flip flops and expect to sport the swimwear. In most towns, bums would be exempt from the "gotta look good at the pool," but this is a tough town with high expectations. We're not dieters, exercisers, or sports buffs, but we do like to feel good (or close) when we strut our stuff. We aren't shooting for six packs (except of free beer), just a few ways to combine saving money with looking hot.

A bit blustery at times, LA is gearing up for another beautiful spring and summer. Gyms can be useful to shed that winter weight (especially if you're visiting for free), but it's much better—and cheaper—to get outside and enjoy the magic of outdoor fun. Since the weather's so awesome, you might as well take advantage of it and exercise in the sunshine. When you've acquired a great tan by the end of April, despite copious use of sunscreen of course, make sure to send inspirational photos of your toned, golden self to a friend still trapped in the cold.

The Missing Persons were largely right: Nobody walks in LA. Which is a real shame because it's such a great idea. LA is much more walkable than you might think. Don't believe me? Check out this website listing LA's most walkable neighborhoods. If you live in a green area, congrats! You have a prime spot in a dense, destination-full locale. Make the most of it! If you live in a red area, our apologies. Moving to a new neighborhood is probably out of the question, but no reason why you still can't make the effort to be more pedestrian. Let's all prove Dale Bozzio wrong. Here's the why and the how.

After New Year's most people make useless resolutions to hit the gym every day. BORING. You've got some time on your hands, so why not participate in something a little nuttier? Here are some of the more eclectic we recommend. Personal trainers can be pricey so try to swap for lessons or just learn the hard way. Note: We do not promise you'll break a sweat.

Being a bum can be pretty stressful. While your employed friends moan about long hours and stuffy offices, your shoulders cramp up just thinking about trying to pay next month's rent. Don't underestimate the effect that constant stress can have on your mental and physical health. Since you probably can't afford an hour long deep tissue session, try these simple techniques to relax.

In a town where doggy bakeries and designer collars are standard, it can be hard to think of affordable ways to pamper your pet. Luckily, animals don't read price tags and there is plenty of fun to be had for less than $10. The following are a few of my favorite ways to throw my dogs a bone without breaking the bank.

Sometimes losing your job means spending a lot of time of the couch. Whether crouched in a fetal position, spooning in ice cream by the gallon, or staring blankly at General Hospital (who knew daytime TV was so amazing?), chances are you’re going to get a bit…blob-like. Let’s go ahead and try to avoid that. Why? Because doctors are expensive, and buying new, ever-larger clothes is expensive, and low self esteem leads to eating even more, which is expensive.