Whole Story

January bears the burden of following weeks filled with feasts, treats and special allowances as most of us turn a blind eye to counting calories and dollars. Then the season ends, and we tighten our belts. No wonder January seems so cold and gloomy.

Well, cheer up! We’ve gathered 13 tips to help you in your quest for wellness — both fiscal and physical. This is the perfect time to discover new-to-you great flavors and tried and true saving strategies. Who knows, with these money-saving tips January might become the second most wonderful time of the year!

1. Health Starts Here® 14-Day Blast Off! Join us as we rocket into a healthy 2013. Visit our Health Starts Here web site or our Healthy Eating Facebook page to receive your missions for recipes, tips, tricks and more.
2. Go organic with ease. Shop for our 365 Everyday Value^® organic products (including whole grains, beans, frozen veggies and fruit), seek out sales, use coupons and scoop savings from bulk bins.
3. Free expert advice. Our bi-monthly pocket guides in the Whole Body™ department feature easy-to-digest information on a variety of health and beauty topics.
4. Wake up right. Oatmeal and other whole grain cereals allow you to enjoy a wholesome breakfast without breaking the bank.
5. Freeze it forward. Make the most of fresh fruit when it’s on sale or overripe: clean, cut and freeze for future smoothies and breakfast bowls.
6. No premium pricing. Look for the Premium Body Care^® logo on 365 Everyday Value^® body care products and balance value with the best options in body care.
7. Bulk up. From nuts and grains to dried fruit and beans, buy only the amount you need at great prices from our bulk bins.
8. Rev up your engine. Fuel your body by cooking with whole, plant-based foods or enjoy the healthy convenience of the new Engine 2 Plant-Strong™ products.
9. Bang for your buck. Foods like whole grains, beans, lentils and fresh or frozen fruits and veggies give you more nutrients for less cash. See our 20 suggestions for beans and grains for inspiration.
10. It pays to plan. Creating a meal plan before you shop is a key ingredient for healthy, hearty and wallet-friendly meals. We’ve even created one week for you!
11. Batch cooking. Cook beans and grains — quinoa, spelt, barley, rice — when you have the time for fast and healthy meals later.
12. Get out there. High gym costs shouldn’t stop you from exercising. Walk the dog, go sledding and take the stairs.
13. Save in season. Citrus fruits and dark leafy greens are in season now. Make the most of it by trying new varieties as they go on sale.

Looking for more for less? Check out The Whole Deal value guide for Sure Deals, more than $53 in coupons, 10 new budget-friendly recipes, a daily meal planner and money-saving tips.

Your turn. What’s your favorite tip for reaching your fiscal and/or physical wellness goals?