You're three weeks into the Whole Body Action Plan. During this fourth and final week of the official plan, reflect on all the positive changes you've made so far -- and zero in on any areas where you'd like to see more progress. While you keep nurturing your new healthy habits, pay especially close attention to the areas where you need improvement, using your journal to uncover any reasons why you might be struggling. Before you wrap up the Action Plan, go back to your journal entries from the first week to reaffirm your intentions and set new goals for healthier living in 2010.
This week, think about the big picture: How can you choose lower-toxin foods? "Being aware of environmental-nutrition issues -- and choosing the cleanest food available to you -- is a key element of healthy eating," Swift says.
Go organic when possible; consult the Environmental Working Group's Shopper's Guide to Pesticides to learn which produce has the highest pesticide load. To find fish high in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids but low in mercury and other contaminants, check the Environmental Defense Fund's Seafood Selector. And to cut back on chemicals found in certain plastics that may disrupt hormonal function, invest in a reusable, stainless steel water bottle.
Listening to soothing music, connecting with nature, exploring your creative side, and connecting with friends can also help restore your energy and leave you better equipped to cope with stress in the long run.
"Whatever you can do to get out of your head for a bit -- even if it's just dancing around the room -- is going to be really helpful in taking the edge off," Lipman says. These activities can help not only ease tension but infuse your day with happy moments and, in turn, nourish your spirit.
Want to keep the momentum going? Tune in each month to our Whole Life Action Plan -- in the pages of Body+Soul and in the online Whole Living community -- where our experts will offer fresh suggestions for building on the progress you started here.
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