[Klara]

S Valentine,

One of the most difficult challenges is letting go of what is right or wrong - I truly believe ANYTHING you do in the direction of eating healthier will have an effect - trying to be perfect won't serve you - just start slow and keep going.

I have been practicing mb for 12 years and do not own an OP - I don't believe it's a must (obviously) - I have heard great things, but you definitely can begin your mb journey without it. You will have many many options, choices to make - buy a book or go for consultation? take a cruise or take classes, travel to find good teacher or learn any way you can - lots and lots of choices - I'm sure alot depends on your situation, your state of health, your personality (how you learn, what you need for support) and of course, money does come into play. One of the bigger decisions I think will have an effect is the quality of the food you buy - on a consistent level - organics do cost more, so if you want to save money, see if you can find local organic farmer's market or any kind of group buying that might save you some money.

Are you in the States? Have you checked out the store on this site? You can buy in bulk and also save money, but be sure the items you buy are either stored correctly or can last quite a while without any harm (such as umeboshi, many dried foods, seaweed). Grains and beans do need to be stored correctly.

A big way I found of saving money is planning and cooking only that which I will need to eat, not more, not having left overs go bad and needing to be thrown out. and of course, not going out to eat!!!!

Good luck to you both.

Klara