I’m ready to welcome in a new month. Ready to shift gears. Ready for healing to begin. The devastating Southern California fires, the changes already implemented by the new White House administration, and the ratcheted-up political Blame Game, all have been overwhelming. Sad. Too much. Flipping my calendar to February, I feel ready for change. Ready to focus on better days. Ready to celebrate a few holidays. Like, Black History month to honor to Black Americans who have made valuable contributions to our country’s history and culture, Valentine’s Day to shower those we adore with love and affection, and to rejoice in the first green signs of spring awakening right before our eyes. Hello February, I’m so glad you’re here!
While January was challenging, a bright spot for me was engaging in my first month of self-care. My goal was to follow the Whole 30 way of eating and I’m excited to tell you about it! I’m also looking forward to sharing what I have on deck for this month’s self-care regimen. But first, my Whole 30 results!
From my journal: January 3, 2025, Newbury Park, California
“Excited about new recipes and clean food!”
Riding high on the wave of enthusiasm my first few days of clean eating went by quickly. Then, the fires came. We lost power three times during the month which kept me focused on what was happening, instead of my meals. But, I have to admit had I not made this commitment, I may have chosen to consume something sugary sweet like I do when I’m stressed.
From my journal: January 15, 2025, Newbury Park, California
“Tired…maybe it’s the fires…glad I’m not stress eating, no junk, no sugar…I feel more level-headed, and less anxious than I’d normally be in such a tense time.”
And a week later…
From my journal: January 22, 2025, Newbury Park, California
“More energy! My skin looks better…clothes fit better…”
Despite this extreme situation, anytime I embark on something new, I find some days challenging and my pep, zip, and initial interest wane. That was Day 21. I likened it to running a marathon. Having run a few, it’s always Mile 18…two-thirds of the way through, that gets me. It’s then I begin to question my sanity. I had to remind myself, that yes, I could do this. Then Day 25 came and I felt so incredibly irritable. Cranky. Everything and everyone bugged me. I had a headache. But then, Day 31 dawned.
From my journal: February 2, 2025, Newbury Park, California
“Yay! I did it! I feel more rested, more relaxed, calmer…am happy about sticking with Whole 30. I am motivated to keep being conscious of what I eat and when…I became very aware of my mindless eating & I realized that sometimes when I think I am hungry I’m reacting to something else…if I drink some water or tea I am no longer ‘hungry’. I am also six pounds lighter – a nice side benefit…”
Going forward I will continue to eat foods I know are nutritious and will do my body and mind good. However, I am human and on Valentine’s Day I will indulge in a few treats. Small pleasures from time to time make my life even sweeter. And any time I feel the need for a complete reset, I know Whole 30 will always be there for me. So glad!
Now February’s self-care involves parts of my body I tend to ignore. It’s simply a case of not paying attention to them until…there’s a problem, like pain. I know I take them for granted. But why? After all, they keep me upright, keep me moving, and keep me balanced. The 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, nerves, and blood vessels that make each one up deserve better. Much better! And this month, I vow to honor them. Yes, I will give my tootsies, my dogs, my two overworked underappreciated feet some TLC.
Like most people, I practice basic foot care and good hygiene. That means I wash and dry my feet every day. I change my socks at least once a day. I check my feet on a regular basis for anything that needs to be treated. I cut and file my toenails when needed. I wear well-fitted shoes that provide support and replace ones that are worn out. Isn’t that all there is to it? Well, not quite.
What I don’t do that I should according to podiatrists is, I don’t specifically exercise my feet. I don’t soak them, I don’t massage them, and I don’t moisturize them daily, or slather them with sunscreen like I do the rest of my body. Shame on me! Well, that’s all going to change. For the next 30 days I will be pampering my ankles, feet, and toes.
While my feet aren’t a source of pain, I bought a copy of My Feet Are Killing Me by Dr. Suzanne Levine for $8.83 on Amazon as a reference. It contains 33 chapters and covers foot structure and purpose, conditions (A-Z) and how to treat them, and how lifestyles impact foot health. Whew! In addition to Levine’s tome, I consulted my copy of Natural Beauty for All Seasons by Janice Cox. In it are recipes for making your own foot soaks and even masks from common ingredients found in most homes. How fun!
As always, I will participate in this self-care activity at least three times a week for 15-30 minutes. Next month, I will share my experiences with you. Without further ado, its time for me to step up my foot care routine, show my feet some love, and put my best feet forward!
A Journal Journey 