Oh happy days!!  The Bachelor starts on Monday,

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The Biggest Loser starts again on Tuesday and Grey’s Anatomy returns on Thursday!  2012 is looking awesome already!

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Aside from three of my favorite shows starting up next week, I will also be starting Whole Living’s 21 Day Action Plan on Monday!  With the help of Whole Living, I am going to use the first three weeks of the new year to detox my body, mind, and environment.

Whole Living’s 2012 Action Plan

Week 1: January 2-8

Go back to basics with simple meals made only with purifying fruits and vegetables that power both body and mind. Taking a break from processed foods and common allergens, like dairy, puts you more in touch with your body and gives your liver, the detoxifying organ, a break.

What You’re Eating During Week 1: fruits, vegetables, and plant-based fats, including nuts, seeds, and oils

What to Expect: You may experience detox symptoms such as headache and fatigue during the first few days. It’s your body getting rid of toxins. It’s OK to feel hungry; in fact, Cynthia Sass, R.D., says you want experience about four stomach growls a day.

By the End of the Week: You’ll feel light, energized, clearheaded, and motivated to conquer Week 2. Keep a food journal this week to help you become more mindful of how food affects your life.

Week 2: January 9-15

With boosted energy and a renewed sense of self, you’ll start this week off eager to feel even better and experiment with more nutrient-rich, whole foods. Adding high-quality protein back into your diet makes it easier to conquer cravings.

What You’re Adding Back in Week 2: seafood, beans and lentils, and organic soy

What to Expect: You’ll have an increased awareness of how your body reacts to each meal. Eat just enough to feel satisfied, not stuffed.

By the Week’s End: Your appetite and usual cravings are likely decreasing. You’re sleeping better and feeling happy you made the choice to change

Week 3: January 16-22

You’ve learned how to eat clean and it’s feeling fantastic — more like a lifestyle and less like a challenge as you reintroduce gluten-free grains and eggs. This is the time to fine-tune your newly developed mindful habits and keep them up!

What You’re Adding Back in Week 3: gluten-free grains and eggs

What to Expect: You may get an energy boost as you reintroduce carbs, but beware: Hearty grains may initially shock your system. This week will help you determine how great (or not) certain foods can make you feel.

By the Week’s End: Research shows that new habits do still take practice, so stick to your happy and healthy new ways.

What to Skip During the Challenge

  • Processed foods
  • Added sugar
  • Dairy
  • Gluten
  • Caffeine (not too sure how I’m feeling about this one)
  • Alcohol

Secrets to a Successful Cleanse

  • Set goals
  • Prepare the people in your life
  • Invite a friend (or readers, wink wink) to join
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Space out your meals
  • Keep a food journal (or blog)
  • Stick to each week’s menu

What to Expect on Coffee Cake and Cardio

  • A weekly grocery shopping recap
  • A daily recap of the previous day’s meals
  • A truthful account of how I’m feeling and doing each day

Have you done the Whole Living challenge before?  How are you hoping to start off the new year?

Filed under: Challenges

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