52 Small Changes...

52 Small Changes:  One Year to a Happier, Healthier You
by Brett Blumenthal

348 pages
Release Date: January 3rd, 2012

Read: January 2012



"Whether as New Year’s resolutions, birthday wishes, or daily promises, most everyone vows at some point to make a major life change. But change is easier said than done, especially when it comes to better managing our wellness amidst the chaos of everyday living. Fortunately, wellness coach and award-winning writer Brett Blumenthal has devised a way to inspire and motivate her readers to live healthier and make positive changes in their lives. Although Blumenthal’s method is not a quick fix, it is a surprisingly simple one: make one small change per week, for fifty-two weeks, and at the end of a year, you’ll be happier and healthier. After all, it is the small changes that are the most realistic, instead of trying to overhaul your lifestyle all at once. 52 Small Changes addresses all areas of wellbeing, including nutrition, exercise, stress management, mental wellness, and even the health of one’s home environment. By guiding readers through these changes at an easy, manageable pace, Blumenthal provides an engaging roadmap to lasting results and “a happier, healthier you.”"


When I think of change, I think of something new that will take me out of my comfort zone....and let's face it, I quite like my comfort zone!  This is probably how I gained so much weight in the first place.  The saying that I've always heard is that "it takes 21 days to form a habit".  That's what I always take into consideration when I think of making a change.  However Blumenthal makes a good argument when she states that "the amount of time required to make a lasting change is highly individualistic and depends on the person, the change, and the circumstances." (Introduction pg 3). It's very likely that we all know this, but we are constantly trying to find the fast fix, that instant gratification.

The reason I believe this book will work for me is something else that Blumenthal says, "extremes don't work". Now, how many of us have tried to do it all at once?  Cut carbs, drink more water, less fat, exercise every day.....I know I've done it and I know it doesn't work. So the ability to change one thing every week is a great concept, even better since I have this book I can take my time.  If one change isn't sticking, I can use an extra week if I need to!  And as motivation, each success could come with a reward...not food of course! 

In the introduction chapters you will find an assessment/questionnaire to start off.  This will take you through a survey of questions that will ultimately tell you which areas of your life that need the most work.  Each chapter is equipped with an explanation of the importance of the change, ways to implement the change, a checklist for you to follow, and little tips, tricks and tidbits of information.  In the back are important tools and resources to help you along your way.  There are food journal templates, lists of affirmations, strengths and accomplishments, nutritional worksheets, prevention plan checklists, budgeting worksheets and internet resources.  

Blumenthal's work is more than just a diet and exercise book, it's a lifestyle change.  She doesn't just focus on a healthy diet and exercise.  She also implements changes in household cleaning supplies, stress management and toxins in beauty products.  When I saw this book a few months ago while I was browsing some sites I immediately put it on my wishlist.  I need to make a change this year, I want to make a change this year....my body is craving this change.  What a perfect way to start! Even though I've read through the entire book, I will be starting this week from the beginning and implementing a new change every week!  I plan on  updating my progress as I go so this is definitely going to be a new year for me, with a new challenge.  I hope that some of you will follow along with me!  Here's to a great start at a new year!!
Thank you to Natalie Surowiecki and Amazon Encore for the opportunity to review this book!

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