We’re always talking about how much money you can save by choosing a healthier lifestyle.  This clip from Delish.com gives you some specific advice on how to do this.  Members will recognize much of this information from our January class. 

 While we don’t agree with their take on oils (they mention only two as acceptable and the Total Heatlh Makeover is more inclusive than that) the other information here is well worth viewing.   I suppose you might say that you could “take it to the bank.” 

Along with better tasting foods, more energy, a kinder approach to the environment, and spending less on over the counter meds and doctor visits, a healthy lifestyle saves you money at the check out line.  Immediate gratification.  What can YOU do with the money you save?

http://www.delish.com/recipes/cooking-recipes/taste-of-place/?v=45868766-b516-41ee-9f14-b7461f15f02d&from=en-us_msnhp

There have been some amazing stories in the spotlight lately about plant based diets and their healing properties.  Most notably President Clinton has shared the benefits of embracing veganism. 

You don’t need to jump in with both feet today to begin to experience these benefits.  But you COULD start taking some baby steps towards better health beginning right now. 

Take a few minutes to read these testimonials recently published in VegNews, and also citing one of our favorite organizations, The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)

http://vegnews.com/articles/page.do?pageId=4122&catId=7

If you’ve had success with a plant based diet in your own life we’d love to hear from YOU !

“IF YOU HAVE MADE MISTAKES THERE IS ALWAYS ANOTHER CHANCE FOR YOU.  YOU MAY HAVE A FRESH START ANY MOMENT YOU CHOOSE.”

Mary Pickford

These are wise words from the famous actress Mary Pickford.  Of course this advice applies to nearly every situation in our lives but at this time of year it especially applies to our health and fitness.  Join another of our favorite actresses to get a fresh start and begin 2012 from a position of strength and determination.  Marilu welcomes you to the site and invites you to please post your questions and share your own tips for success on the message boards. 

We have some wonderful classes planned and hope you’ll consider joining us as we kick off the new  year with the 10 steps of THM.  We’re getting BACK TO BASICS…BECAUSE IT WORKS !!

The Total Health Makeover is based on 10 steps which, followed as a lifestyle, will improve your health and energy levels and make it easier for you to manage your weight.  These will all be covered in depth beginning January 2nd in the member’s area.  Here’s a sneak preview:

There’s a lot of sugar coming at you these days.  It’s often hidden in the products you buy, places where you least expect it.  At this time of year it’s also putting in a bolder appearance in cookies and cakes and that candy bowl at work. 

 There are a lot of good reasons for avoiding the sugar overload and your weight is only one of them.  Check out this article for a reminder on why we count sugar as one of the health robbers.

http://fitbie.msn.com/eat-right/tips/6-scary-side-effects-sugar

A healthy lifestyle can be simple AND affordable.  So should your gift giving.  This article suggests some great gifts for the health enthusiast on your list.   We aren’t endorsing all of these products ( two of them are food items so the responsibility falls on you to read labels and choose the healthiest versions of that type of product) but there are some great ideas for you to check out.

This list might spark ideas of your own so please visit us on the boards and share your thoughts.

One more item that isn’t on the list?  MEMBERSHIP AT MARILU.COM ! 

If you’re already a member we have a special offer for you.  Gift a new membership to a friend at the renewal rate. 

If you’re interested in membership for the first time contact us for special group rates.  You (and your friends) can join Marilu’s new class, beginning January 2nd, and get a strong start in the New Year !

Curious about classes here?  Beginning Monday we’re offering a free class on the message boards.  Join Marilu and Coach Jan for 5 days of keeping it simple and staying healthy through the hectic holiday season.

Highly Superior Autobiographical Memory (HSAM), and Marilu are in the news yet again.  This time they’ve crossed the pond, drawing interest from memory experts in the U.K.  Take a look at the following article.  It’s interesting that they talk about memory being less about what we retain and more about what we’re able to access.  They’ve clearly been watching the research with a keen eye.

http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/at-a-glance/main-section/people_who_have_rare_super_memory_sought_1_4012517

Have you been thinking about going meatless one day a week?  Would you like to join in on Meatless Mondays?

Here’s an interesting article discussing the trend…and giving a shout out to Marilu.com !!

http://www.vegancooking.com/random-stuff/are-meatless-mondays-for-you-2/

There’s some great information in there to help you make a decision about what’s right for you.

With the rise in coupon clipping, and the reality shows dedicated to the practice, those of us who purchase very few packaged goods can feel left out of the current trend.  And a little disappointed to miss out on the savings at check out.  This article will give you some insight (and websites) for saving on healthy purchases.  We especially love that when tip number 5 talks about “milk products” they’re referencing non dairy items !

Be sure to check this one out !

http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/your-money-today/article.aspx?cp-documentid=31228944

Separating fact from fiction is probably the most important step in gathering information.  November is Diabetes Awareness Month.  In recognition of that we’d like to share this article that lays out some basic information in a very clear, concise manner.  Take a minute to click through this slideshow.