14 Days to Freedom

So, in recognition of the annual "New Year, New You" trend, I’ve decided to do something I've never done to ring in 2014!  I didn't make any resolutions or proclamations of lofty, unattainable plans.  Instead, I actually did something.  That's right!  I put my bottom in gear and decided to make some progress with my health-related goals.  I've been contemplating cleaning up my already clean diet even more by making a move toward vegetarianism.  I'm still not certain if vegetarianism is the absolute right fit for me, but the health benefits make the effort worthwhile!  So, in preparation for this transition, I went to a physician and herbalist to begin my very first fast.  Whew!  I can't believe I'm even considering letting go of vittles for days at a time (I’m a total food junkie), but if it's for the advancement of my health, I'm in.  

I’ve read that fasting has a slew of health benefits including increased energy, stamina and mental clarity, weight loss, decreased depression, the elimination of toxicity in the body and so much more!  For the increase in energy alone, I’m game!  The fast I’ve chosen to embark upon is a liquid fast prescribed for 10-14 days wherein only distilled water, herbal teas (sweetened with raw honey or agave nectar), fruit and vegetable juices and a vegetable broth and water mixture.  I’m also taking a multivitamin, vitamin D3 and herbal supplements prescribed by my doctor to flush out toxins from my colon and other organs.  I’m engaging in frequent exercising, prayer, meditation, spiritual readings and dry-brushing my skin to further increase my overall health.  That’ the plan!  I’m doing this under the supervision of a physician and he’s on call any time I need him to answer my questions and address any concerns that may arise.  I’ve decided to take record of my thoughts and experiences each day that I’m fasting.  So, feel free to follow along!  Perhaps you’ll be inspired or encouraged to run for your life any time you hear the word “fast.”  Whatever happens, you and I are in this together for the next couple of weeks.  I’m sure we’ll both learn a thing or two about starvation...I mean…fasting.  Here goes…….

Day 1: 

I’m feeling half reluctant, half excited about my decision to begin this process. 

I’m tempted to turn back and head to Five Guys for a cup/brown paper bag full of thick,

greasy French fries sprinkled with salt and drenched in Heinz ketchup.  I only use Heinz.

I haven’t had another brand that does the trick.  I digress.  Can you tell that I really want

some French fries?  Like right now.   Really, any food will do.  I’ve been searching websites

for recipes that I’m already stoked about making post-cleansing.  I’m really excited (about the

recipes, I mean….well, I guess about the cleanse too)!  

Anyhow, aside from missing food, I feel pretty good.  I do find myself having to divert my attention from thoughts of food, especially when preparing meals for the kids, smelling the aromas from my kitchen and seeing the barrage of commercials advertising food products.  **Sidebar: I never really realized that almost every commercial is advertising food...unhealthy food, might I add.  OMG!  It is no wonder we have so many healh-related illnesses.  As a nation, we're food obsessed!**   I’m surviving though, and to be honest, without having to take much time to eat, prep food, etc., I’m finding that I’m far more productive.  Surprisingly, I feel very energetic, and almost euphoric by bedtime.  It’s kind of like feeling the healthy version of being tipsy.  I’m loving it!  I’ve gotten a lot of great ideas today, all of which I’m jotting down in the pretty purple journal my mom bought me for Christmas.  Really good stuff, and I’m so excited about getting started on everything!  It’s like I’ve got this burst of energy to do everything that I’ve been thinking of doing in the past all of sudden!  It’s a pretty nice feeling.  I’m looking forward to seeing what comes of it all.  C’mon Day 2!