Don't attend a holiday party without reading this!

Holiday parties are in full swing!

Don't let the instant gratification and temptations sacrifice what you want MOST for your health. Here are some tips to help you thrive! Eat before you go. If you aren’t sure what type of food will be waiting to greet you at the door, do not make the mistake of showing up hungry. When in doubt, eat crudité and hummus. Name one holiday party you have attended that doesn’t have raw veggies and hummus... bet you can’t do it! (Avoid the sour cream trans fat dip like the plague!) O.P.R. You know it well by now: stick to one plate and enjoy what you will. Pick your poison. Alcohol, dessert, fried finger foods… someone stop me! Pick one treat to have, and fill up on the healthy stuff.  Drink clear liquor. Clear liquor is best, and drink water in between so you wake up the next day looking remarkably fresh and fantastic. (watch this video for a laugh... and a good explanation on the best types of alcohol) Make it about the company, not the food. We tend to stuff our face when we feel socially awkward. “Oh look there’s Tom’s annoying boss. Let me just stuff my face with these mini hot dogs and he won’t try to talk to me.” Sound familiar? Try to focus on the people, and if the party sucks, don’t eat, LEAVE! To cleanse or not to cleanse... Do I think it is important to cleanse? Yes, I believe as the seasons change, or with the beginning of a new year, it is wise to give the body a little help in renewing itself, but I want it to arise out of a compassionate desire to reach for better health, not as a quick fix to undo bad behaviors. I think it would be a great idea to cleanse with the new year, but be careful to recognize what is driving you to do so (love or punishment?). We love these cleanse packets from Designs for Health because they provide the body a deeper cleanse using the highest quality nutrients and extraction methods. If you decide to couple it with the food guidelines of our 10 day detox then you will reap the benefits of the synergy between food and herbs. As we all agree that the pressure to cleanse during this time of year is a tad redundant, I want to make sure that IF you decide that doing a cleanse is the right choice for you at this time, that you have access to the highest quality products and support. For this reason, we are offering 10% savings on our favorite cleanse packets throughout the month of December and January. (Please consult your doctor before you do any sort of cleansing or supplement regimen.) So, to cleanse or not to cleanse? This is entirely up to you. What I wish for everyone during this eating season is a level of food consciousness that helps guide you through the holiday parties and gatherings. Let's all set the intention to reflect back on this holiday season and feel proud of the eating choices we have made. We will share the goal of having our bodies be the physical manifestation of how much we love and care for ourselves.  Click here to purchase the cleanse packets and receive 10% savings with discount code NW10% plus FREE shipping! Success Stories: Congrats Maria, Sara and Anthony!

Spent too much time wrapping presents?  Don't forget that your health takes first priority. Here's one of our favorite quick and easy crock pot recipes!  Crock Pot Moroccan Lamb Stew