Tomorrow, July 22nd, I have a 2 & ½ hour drive to Santa Rosa where I will check into True North Health Center for a medically supervised water-only fast. There is some recommended preparation before you begin at True North. Last Tuesday was my last cup of coffee. Many people who consume caffeine regularly have withdrawal symptoms that range from headache to decreased energy and mood changes. While I only drink one cup daily, I thought it best to stop beforehand.
The other preparation recommended is to eat only vegetables and fruit 2-3 days beforehand. I already eat a whole food plant-exclusive diet. This was extra challenging, as for one of those days, I was traveling. Luckily, we found a place to eat called Simply Salad where I had a large chopped salad for lunch. They offered plain balsamic as well as lemon or lime for dressing choices. Once home, I could add my normal potato and broccoli meal to help fill me up. I didn’t think eating fruit and veggies would be challenging. This makes me wonder what it will be like once they are gone, and it’s only distilled water.
My last preparation was to figure out what to pack. Because fasting is a powerful way to eliminate toxins in the body, they ask you not to use your normal toiletries. They provide unscented shampoo and body wash, and you avoid deodorant, toothpaste, and other chemical exposure. I realized when I was getting ready this morning how many items I use, including facial cleansers, toothpaste, deodorant, moisturizers, etc.
They advise you to relax and limit your activity to have a successful fast. I don’t know how I will feel and how much writing, reading, and other activities I can complete. Every room has a television, but there is only so much that I can stand at one time. They do have education classes on fitness, healthy eating, and the like and I hope to take advantage of all that I can report on the full experience.
I hope to get some work done and post a meaningful blog on the experience. This will all be a stretch for my computer abilities, so I sincerely appreciate all of you who follow along with me on this journey.
