I fasted for the first time a little over a week ago and I did a moderate amount of research before embarking on my very first fast. Even having done this, I could not have expected the experience that occurred. I was intentional about making it a spiritual experience. I spent the three days outside, in the sun, in my underpants, writing, meditating, sometimes bored to be honest and reading. I don’t think I would’ve made it through without these Tips and Tricks. Enjoy!
Tips
Beginning (at least) two days before your fast:
- Limit Your Sugar Intake. I stopped eating fruits, processed sugars, juices, soda, and most bread leading up to my fast. This will allow your body to get used to not having that addiction in its system. It makes Day 1 much easier!
- Start a Completely Vegetable Diet (with minimal grains). I ate only leafy greens, broccoli, bell papers, quinoa, and Kale. I was still eating but also beginning the adjustment to lower carbs.
- Create an Outline For Your Intentions During the Fast. What are you hoping to achieve? Is this is a cleansing fast? A spiritual fast? Write down your intentions and what you would like to work on for each day. Get into the habit of journaling daily.
During Your Fast:
- Stay Away From the Kitchen. It is too easy to be tempted to look into the fridge. Old habits die hard. Put away any easy access snacks that could end up in your mouth. This will help you think of food a little less.
- Drink 2-3 Liters of water DAILY. This is the ultimate lifesaver. Water will become your very best friend. Staying hydrated is key to making it through your fast.
- Add Electrolytes to Your Water. Eventually, you’ll get tired of the flavor of water plus you may need a bit of an energy boost. Adding electrolytes gives you that sensation of flavor as well as perks you up for a few hours.
- When You Feel Like Giving Up, MEDITATE/PRAY. The body wants, what it wants, when it wants it, but you have a powerful tool. YOUR MIND. So kindly, hush up your stomach and remind it that you are safe and this ache it feels will end.
- Busy Yourself. As I said in preparation, you should have already set up intentions for your fast. Dig Deep into yourself and face your demons. Use this time to better understand yourself and your place in the world. Do artistic activities. Take a long bath and scrub your body of the toxins and trauma. Read a book. Stare at the clouds. Watch a bumblebee pollinate.
After Your Fast:
- Do NOT Gorge on Food. Your stomach has shrunken. If you try to eat too much coming off of your fast you will likely get nauseous and throw it all up. Break your fast with something light like a fruit smoothie. Afterward, wait for about 2 hours to eat another small snack. A fruit or a piece of bread. Then wait another two hours or so before eating a relatively normal meal. Your stomach/appetite will be smaller than usual for a few days.
- Reflect. How was your experience? Were there things you could have done better? Is there anything you would have liked to do differently. Write it down 🙂
- Don’t Stop That Good Habit of Drinking 2-3 Liters of Water :p
Random Things I Noticed
You never think about how smooth and clean your teeth stay when you don’t eat.
On the second day, my mind was super clear and focused.
There was a noticeable emptiness in my abdomen. I felt very light. Like I could float away while meditating.
Anyways that’s it!!!
I hope this helps
With All The Love I Am
Tori F. Baby
#Livehappii