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Saturday, January 23, 2010
Winter detox, day 14
Last day of detox. I have a bit of antipathy regarding this. I am not quite as frustrated as I was 2 days ago and part of me wants to continue a bit longer. On the other hand, it will be nice to go out to eat with friends and have a glass of wine.
Overall, it's been a great experience. As I've previously mentioned, I feel better, have more energy, sleep better and it appears that other people notice as well. It's good to remind myself what it feels like to be good to my body. When I get stressed and busy, it is so easy to forget that it does make a difference what I choose to eat.
That being said, I am excited to eat some things I haven't in the past two weeks, but I can't say that I am really 'craving' anything, I have - on the whole- felt satisfied and full, and have eaten a variety of things. One of the hardest parts though was the preparation - to know what I had to eat all day, to plan ahead and bring it with me. But, once that was done, it wasn't so bad.
More reflections later - but thank you Dr. Erica Peirson for putting this together, and for the Awakening Lotus patients who participated.
Overall, it's been a great experience. As I've previously mentioned, I feel better, have more energy, sleep better and it appears that other people notice as well. It's good to remind myself what it feels like to be good to my body. When I get stressed and busy, it is so easy to forget that it does make a difference what I choose to eat.
That being said, I am excited to eat some things I haven't in the past two weeks, but I can't say that I am really 'craving' anything, I have - on the whole- felt satisfied and full, and have eaten a variety of things. One of the hardest parts though was the preparation - to know what I had to eat all day, to plan ahead and bring it with me. But, once that was done, it wasn't so bad.
More reflections later - but thank you Dr. Erica Peirson for putting this together, and for the Awakening Lotus patients who participated.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Winter detox, day 12
I don't think I'm alone when I say: I'm over it. I don't know if it's because I'm not having a great week, that this detox seems harder right now. But, it's odd, considering I usually do a 21-day versus a 14 day program - yet these last few days are tough.
I feel strange that I'm feeling this way - as generally, I feel really good on detox, I have more energy, I sleep better, I am usually in a great mood. I'm not sure what the culprit is. Despite the wishing it was over, I'm almost glad it's not. I surely would make some poor choices given the mood I've been in the last few days - so ultimately, it's for the best and I'm sure I'll come out of it feeling better.
On a more positive note - other things I've noticed while on detox: people are giving me lots of compliments and saying I look good, my skin feels clear and that it has good color to it. I am not craving sweets at all (salty things on the other hand...).
After-all, what's 2 more days...?
I feel strange that I'm feeling this way - as generally, I feel really good on detox, I have more energy, I sleep better, I am usually in a great mood. I'm not sure what the culprit is. Despite the wishing it was over, I'm almost glad it's not. I surely would make some poor choices given the mood I've been in the last few days - so ultimately, it's for the best and I'm sure I'll come out of it feeling better.
On a more positive note - other things I've noticed while on detox: people are giving me lots of compliments and saying I look good, my skin feels clear and that it has good color to it. I am not craving sweets at all (salty things on the other hand...).
After-all, what's 2 more days...?
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Winter detox, day 10
First, apologies for the missing days of posting. Life got a little in the way, and I had to process. However, the detox did have some implications there, too. Bad news, stress - for me (and most of us I would venture to guess) are intimately tied with our food choices. Despite knowing good and bad choices - it's amazing to me how much emotions can overtake our knowledge and very possibly change our decisions.
While I desperately wanted a glass of wine, and some comfort food (something sweet and high fat - afterall, it boosts serotonin temporarily), I tried to find alternatives. I did not succumb to these emotional food desires - but tea and vegetables certainly did not satisfy the emotional want for something else.
My background in neuroscience has me wonder about this. My studies were in memory systems, so I'll have to do some research - but I wonder what benefit connecting something so essential to survival as food to something as variable as emotions - what purpose does this complex connection serve?
I'll have to get back to you on that last one. In the meantime... 4 days to go, and feeling good!
While I desperately wanted a glass of wine, and some comfort food (something sweet and high fat - afterall, it boosts serotonin temporarily), I tried to find alternatives. I did not succumb to these emotional food desires - but tea and vegetables certainly did not satisfy the emotional want for something else.
My background in neuroscience has me wonder about this. My studies were in memory systems, so I'll have to do some research - but I wonder what benefit connecting something so essential to survival as food to something as variable as emotions - what purpose does this complex connection serve?
I'll have to get back to you on that last one. In the meantime... 4 days to go, and feeling good!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Winter detox, day 7
Halfway there. I, unlike many of the people I am doing this detox with, am not doing the juice fast this weekend. As I have a full day of work tomorrow, and my metabolism is notoriously slow - I figured it was for the best. However, one day I might like to try it.
Things I've noticed so far as a result of the detox: I feel that I have more energy. Mornings aren't so hard, and I make it through the day. I don't feel sluggish after meals, like I often do when not on detox. I notice how many of my eating habits are just that - habit - not for reasons of hunger or nutrition - but just habit. How much food and drink is a part of being social. It also reminds me how wonderful food can be - the flavors, textures, aromas... and how I need to remember to be present and enjoy that when I eat, instead of letting it be mindless and habit.
It's a little odd, I know, but I've been reading Julia Child's 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking' which seems a bit masochistic in the face of detox. However, I find that as I read the recipes and descriptions of dishes and sauces, that the richness is illuminated and while I can't wait to do some cooking involving obscene amounts of butter - I plan to do it with awareness, and to savor it.
It comes back to being present, and mindful - something I personally tend to go in cycles with. I wish to cultivate more of it. That is why I am doing this.
Things I've noticed so far as a result of the detox: I feel that I have more energy. Mornings aren't so hard, and I make it through the day. I don't feel sluggish after meals, like I often do when not on detox. I notice how many of my eating habits are just that - habit - not for reasons of hunger or nutrition - but just habit. How much food and drink is a part of being social. It also reminds me how wonderful food can be - the flavors, textures, aromas... and how I need to remember to be present and enjoy that when I eat, instead of letting it be mindless and habit.
It's a little odd, I know, but I've been reading Julia Child's 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking' which seems a bit masochistic in the face of detox. However, I find that as I read the recipes and descriptions of dishes and sauces, that the richness is illuminated and while I can't wait to do some cooking involving obscene amounts of butter - I plan to do it with awareness, and to savor it.
It comes back to being present, and mindful - something I personally tend to go in cycles with. I wish to cultivate more of it. That is why I am doing this.
Labels: acupuncture, being present, chinese medicine, detox, mindfullness
Friday, January 15, 2010
Winter detox, day 6
Day 6 - over a third of the way through the detox. It's going pretty well. It was a bit of challenging evening, though. Went out to dinner with some friends I hadn't seen in a while, there were drinks and all sorts of food I shouldn't be eating.
Much to my surprise, it wasn't that difficult to resist. However, I did notice some things that normally I think I do without really thinking about it. We were at a Mexican restaurant, and it is so easy to pick up chips and salsa while you're catching up with friends. It took some mental effort to avoid that 'not thinking' action.
All in all a good night, felt good to stick to my plan AND see my friends! On that note, I'm calling it a night - good luck to everyone doing the juice fast this weekend!
Much to my surprise, it wasn't that difficult to resist. However, I did notice some things that normally I think I do without really thinking about it. We were at a Mexican restaurant, and it is so easy to pick up chips and salsa while you're catching up with friends. It took some mental effort to avoid that 'not thinking' action.
All in all a good night, felt good to stick to my plan AND see my friends! On that note, I'm calling it a night - good luck to everyone doing the juice fast this weekend!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Helping Haiti
In light of the recent earthquake in Haiti - this country with an already poor infrastructure needs all the help and support it can get.
Here's how YOU can help. The following are some easy and legitimate ways to contribute to relief work in Haiti if you're so inclined.
* Doctors Without Borders (MSF): Is an independent international organization committed to bringing quality medical care to people caught in crisis regardless of race, religion, or political affiliation. They are currently providing relief and much needed medical care to the earthquake victims in Haiti. Donate here. Here's how YOU can help. The following are some easy and legitimate ways to contribute to relief work in Haiti if you're so inclined.
* Partners in Health (PIH) : is a another great organization that provides access to primary care and free health care and education for people who are unable to afford it. They also with communities to provide better access to sanitation, health care, food, water and shelter. To donate specifically to PIH's efforts in Haiti - click here.
* American Red Cross (ARC): The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. To donate to disaster relief or specifically to Haiti - click here.
* Mercy Corps: Mercy Corps exists to alleviate suffering, poverty and oppression by helping people build secure, productive and just communities. Mercy Corps is currently helping earthquake survivors in Haiti. To Donate to their efforts - click here.
* Text 'Haiti' to 90999 to donate $10 towards the Red Cross's relief effort in Haiti. This is backed by the US State Department. Read more here.
Also, one of my favorite bloggers to read - The Pioneer Woman - is giving away two $500 donations of relief support for Haiti to the charity of the winner's choice. To enter, just leave a comment on her blog. Additionally, she is donating 10 cents per comment to relief efforts - so spread the love!
* Come in for an appointment at Anatomy Acupuncture - For my part, I'll donate $10 per patient I see for the rest of the month towards relief in Haiti via one of the above organizations. So, come in and get acupuncture, and help Haiti too!
Labels: disaster, donate, earthquake, Haiti, help, relief, support
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Winter detox, day 4
As the story goes, day 3 is supposed to be one of the hardest. Yesterday was great. And today was until about an hour ago. I have a brutal headache and I'm not sure why. Best thing to do is to get some rest!
'til tomorrow!
'til tomorrow!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Winter detox, day 3
Support.
Makes all the difference.
At yoga today we did a lot of downward facing dog (the bane of my existence, I swear). But we did it a little differently, with partners - and used them as support. For me, as someone who has probably never done the pose correctly - it was amazing. Having the support allowed me to do something I was previously unable to. I could feel how the pose was meant to be done, even though on my own my body won't yet do that.
It was a great experience. Support can get you places you may never get on your own. Same with doing a group detox - it's good to have other people to talk to, share thoughts, feelings, and knowing they face a similar challenge.
What have you done with support that you might not have otherwise been able to do?
Makes all the difference.
At yoga today we did a lot of downward facing dog (the bane of my existence, I swear). But we did it a little differently, with partners - and used them as support. For me, as someone who has probably never done the pose correctly - it was amazing. Having the support allowed me to do something I was previously unable to. I could feel how the pose was meant to be done, even though on my own my body won't yet do that.
It was a great experience. Support can get you places you may never get on your own. Same with doing a group detox - it's good to have other people to talk to, share thoughts, feelings, and knowing they face a similar challenge.
What have you done with support that you might not have otherwise been able to do?
Labels: acupuncture, chinese medicine, community, detox, support
Monday, January 11, 2010
Winter detox: day 2
Many of you may ask, why detox? It seems restrictive and you wonder what you could possibly get out of it. I can't speak to everyone's reasons for doing a program like this - it might be to sort out digestive issues, clear up a skin condition, take a break from unhealthy foods, cleanse your system after long term medication use... there are myriad reasons. I am doing it to devote some time and energy to myself.
I often find it hard to make time for me - to eat how I want to eat, to do the activities I want to do. This isn't necessarily because I don't have time - but often I'm more concerned about what other people need. Maybe you've experienced the same thing - for instance cooking meals for more than just yourself can be a negotiation between what you want to eat, and what other people do. Or sometimes your time is not your own - there's always something to do and somewhere to be, and often none of that is for you. Don't get me wrong - I love caring for other people, making them feel better, brightening their day. But sometimes, I find that I am always doing for others and I neglect doing the things I need to do to feel nourished and alive.
For me being on a detox program allows this. It's 2 weeks all about me. It's all about what I'm eating, and how I treat my body (today was great, I did yoga and got a vitamin IV - tomorrow I'm getting acupuncture), what I'm thinking and how I want to feel. I don't do this for myself on a daily basis, even though I know how important it is. And yes, on an on-going basis perhaps my routine would be selfish, and maybe financially unfeasible, as living and working with others necessitates some sort of compromise. To be able to find that balanced place in the middle where you can care for yourself in order to be more productive, to care for others, can be a difficult place to find, if you're always on the giving side.
These two weeks give me a different perspective (we did inversions in yoga today and I love the idea of looking at things differently) on how I'm living. It allows me a physical and mental holiday from a lot of stressors I didn't realize were there. This is why I detox.
So, whether or not you decide to participate in one - remember that taking care of you is important, and doing things solely for yourself is vital to health and coping with stress.
I'll leave you with another of my favorite quotes - from the neuroscientist Antonio Damasio:
I often find it hard to make time for me - to eat how I want to eat, to do the activities I want to do. This isn't necessarily because I don't have time - but often I'm more concerned about what other people need. Maybe you've experienced the same thing - for instance cooking meals for more than just yourself can be a negotiation between what you want to eat, and what other people do. Or sometimes your time is not your own - there's always something to do and somewhere to be, and often none of that is for you. Don't get me wrong - I love caring for other people, making them feel better, brightening their day. But sometimes, I find that I am always doing for others and I neglect doing the things I need to do to feel nourished and alive.
For me being on a detox program allows this. It's 2 weeks all about me. It's all about what I'm eating, and how I treat my body (today was great, I did yoga and got a vitamin IV - tomorrow I'm getting acupuncture), what I'm thinking and how I want to feel. I don't do this for myself on a daily basis, even though I know how important it is. And yes, on an on-going basis perhaps my routine would be selfish, and maybe financially unfeasible, as living and working with others necessitates some sort of compromise. To be able to find that balanced place in the middle where you can care for yourself in order to be more productive, to care for others, can be a difficult place to find, if you're always on the giving side.
These two weeks give me a different perspective (we did inversions in yoga today and I love the idea of looking at things differently) on how I'm living. It allows me a physical and mental holiday from a lot of stressors I didn't realize were there. This is why I detox.
So, whether or not you decide to participate in one - remember that taking care of you is important, and doing things solely for yourself is vital to health and coping with stress.
I'll leave you with another of my favorite quotes - from the neuroscientist Antonio Damasio:
"Perhaps the most indispensable thing we can do as human beings, every day of our lives, is to remind ourselves and others of our complexity, fragility, finiteness, and uniqueness. And this is of course the difficult job, is it not: to move the spirit from its nowhere pedestal to a somewhere place, while preserving its dignity and importance; to recognize its humble origin and vulnerability and still call upon its guidance."
Labels: acupuncture, chinese medicine, detox, stress management, yoga
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Winter detox, day 1
Hi and welcome to 2010! I hope you all made it through the holidays intact and are having a great start to the year. For the next two weeks I am going to be writing about my experience and thoughts while going through a detox program.
Some of my wonderful colleagues at Awakening Lotus put together a 14 day detox program for our patients, and we decided to do it as well. While I have done a detox before, I am excited about this one for a number of reasons. As much as I usually prefer to do a detox in the warmer weather (it seems easier to me, to eat mostly vegetables in the spring and summer), I find some synchronicity in this - it's a new year, I've been organizing and cleaning out my office, my papers - so why not my body and my mind as well? There are some eating habits I got into over the holidays that I'd like to get rid of, and for me, remembering how good my body feels without all the sugar, caffiene, alcohol and dairy is a good way to get back on track and eating in a way that gives me energy and makes me feel good!
So, that being said the other thing I am most excited about is doing this detox as a group. I have only ever done them on my own previously, and I think dialoguing with people, and knowing that they're going through a similar experience can be enormously helpful. Support and community is something that is beneficial beyond words , all the time, but especially during challenging times. I can't wait to see how it goes!
Another thing I decided to do along with the detox is to post something daily about my experience or some thoughts. I'm using this time to recenter, get back to yoga and meditation - to start this year feeling good, thinking clearly and being joyful.
As for the detox report - just finishing up day 1 and it went pretty well. This morning (and the next 13 to come) I started with an olive oil, lemon and garlic concoction to help flush out the gallbladder. Which actually wasn't as bad as it may sound. I didn't mind drinking it as much as I minded the 4 hour garlic aftertaste. Had enough energy to get through work, and felt satisfied with my food. It was a good day one.
With that I am going to leave you with a paragraph from "Turning the Mind into an Ally," by Sakyong Mipham, a great book on meditation that I would recommend to anyone.
Some of my wonderful colleagues at Awakening Lotus put together a 14 day detox program for our patients, and we decided to do it as well. While I have done a detox before, I am excited about this one for a number of reasons. As much as I usually prefer to do a detox in the warmer weather (it seems easier to me, to eat mostly vegetables in the spring and summer), I find some synchronicity in this - it's a new year, I've been organizing and cleaning out my office, my papers - so why not my body and my mind as well? There are some eating habits I got into over the holidays that I'd like to get rid of, and for me, remembering how good my body feels without all the sugar, caffiene, alcohol and dairy is a good way to get back on track and eating in a way that gives me energy and makes me feel good!
So, that being said the other thing I am most excited about is doing this detox as a group. I have only ever done them on my own previously, and I think dialoguing with people, and knowing that they're going through a similar experience can be enormously helpful. Support and community is something that is beneficial beyond words , all the time, but especially during challenging times. I can't wait to see how it goes!
Another thing I decided to do along with the detox is to post something daily about my experience or some thoughts. I'm using this time to recenter, get back to yoga and meditation - to start this year feeling good, thinking clearly and being joyful.
As for the detox report - just finishing up day 1 and it went pretty well. This morning (and the next 13 to come) I started with an olive oil, lemon and garlic concoction to help flush out the gallbladder. Which actually wasn't as bad as it may sound. I didn't mind drinking it as much as I minded the 4 hour garlic aftertaste. Had enough energy to get through work, and felt satisfied with my food. It was a good day one.
With that I am going to leave you with a paragraph from "Turning the Mind into an Ally," by Sakyong Mipham, a great book on meditation that I would recommend to anyone.
"It's fine to take pleasure, to enjoy good food, and to listen to beautiful music. Becoming curious about how we suffer doesn'tmean that we can no longer enjoy eating ice cream. But once we begin to understand the bewilderment of our untrained mind, we won't look to the ice cream and say, "that's happiness." We'll realize that the mind can be happy devoid of ice cream. We'll realize that the mind is content and happy by nature."
Labels: acupuncture, chinese medicine, detox, meditation, new year, winter
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