For many New Year’s Day kicks off the commitment to New Beginnings and a fresh start for goals. This year I am kicking off the first day of 2018 by beginning by starting a Whole30 program. Maybe some of you are familiar with this form of lifestyle change through eating—but this essentially removing all inflammatory foods from one’s diet for 30 days and then slowly reintroducing these foods, one at a time, to see how one’s body responds to these foods after fully detoxing the body. One of the aspects of the Whole30 program I appreciate the most is the focus on non-scale victories (like improved sleep, digestion, clearer skin, decreased cravings for sugar). I also really appreciate the ritual of attending to my body for thirty days and promoting health. The whole30 program is NOT a weight loss program, albeit many individuals who complete the program experience this as an added benefit. This is a program that vitalizes the body and the mind! This program was developed by Melissa and Dallas Hartwig and the ins and outs can be found on their website www.whole30.com . For me, this lifestyle approach also promotes mindful care of my body and my soul.
Many individuals come off the holiday season feeling emotionally and physically burnt out, making commitments to attend to their physical and emotional health through their New Year’s Resolutions. Individuals join gyms, give up sugar, quit smoking, take up a new hobby and fail by mid-January. The key to making positive lifestyle changes includes support and commitment to a new habit for at least 28 days. Whatever new beginning change you want to make—commit to yourself in a loving and mindful way. Get support from friends and family. Read articles, books or blogs related to the change you are investing in. Write your goals down (you will be much more likely to succeed with written goals and support to help you remain accountable to yourself).
Join on-line communities that support your commitment and add professional support as needed (ex. health coaches, therapists, fitness trainers). Above all, know you are worth the change you are trying to make! I wish you a happy and healthy 2018 and much success in any new beginning you are making for yourself!!