The "Just for Today" Cleanse

During the month of January, I created my own cleanse –– no sugar, dairy, alcohol, gluten, caffeine, or meat. I felt like I was doing the impossible when I embarked on this journey. The first few days were especially challenging, as I was about to enjoy a getaway trip with girlfriends. This trip consisted of wine tasting paired with an abundance of cheese, crackers and chocolate. These are a few of my favorite things. Each time I almost let my guard down, I kept repeating to myself, “just for today.”  It became my mantra, and it worked We got quite a few laughs off of my kale salad and carrot juice amongst the cheese plates, Chardonay and Cabernet.

I completed the 31-day cleanse and feel fantastic. My meals consisted of whole foods – grains, vegetables, beans, nuts and fruits – prepared in a variety of ways. It’s the first cleanse I’ve ever been able to finish, I feel wonderful and it has become my new way of eating and lifestyle. What’s amazing is I’ve eliminated my cravings for sugar, caffeine and alcohol, which I never thought in a million years could happen.

Living in Marin County is an ideal place to cleanse. With our abundance of health food stores, we have so many nutritious, delicious choices. From Driver’s Market in Sausalito, Whole Foods in Mill Valley and Good Earth Natural Foods in Fairfax, we are truly blessed.

Have I mentioned how grateful I am for the fresh fruit and vegetable juice spots now dotting Southern Marin? I’ve always loved juices, but this cleanse made me deeply appreciate what they offer. Each juice has a range of flavors and blends to choose from that can quench any appetite or craving. There are many health benefits to drinking juices, and it’s a great way to add nutrients. From Nekter Juice Bar in Corte Madera to Urban Remedy in Mill Valley and San Rafael to Pressed Juicery in Larkspur, as well as all of the markets mentioned above, you’ve got an abundance of choices.

Look no further than The Plant Café in Mill Valley for exceptional meals and choices. I invite you, try my mantra “just for today.” If it works for me, it can work for you!