The Cleanse

Tomorrow I start a 15-day cleanse program. The plan I'll be following comes from a book called "If the Buddha Came to Dinner" by Halé Sofia Schatz. In terms of nutrition, the program is divided into three phases: 5 days of fruits and vegetables (not combined in a meal); 5 days of fruits, vegetables and whole grains (not containing wheat); and 5 days of fruits, veggies, grains and proteins (except meat and dairy -- fish is ok, eggs are optional), though no one meal should have both grains and protein. There will also be lots and lots of tea, along with "colon cleanser" and probiotics in the mornings and before bed.

Schatz recommends a 1-2 week preparation period, which I haven't followed very well. My intention is to fully apply my discipline skills to the next 2 weeks, however. I've had the idea to do a type of detox for quite some time, even entertaining the idea of going to a spa specializing in such things. This will be a considerably less expensive adventure, though a journey all the same. It will go beyond what I choose to put in my mouth -- I'll also be paying attention to what I allow into my energy field and senses. If it's not nurturing (see ya later, internet news and entertainment sites), it's off the radar for awhile. At the same time I'll be working on increasing what I do find to be nourishing: time with the kitties, photography, cooking, spring cleaning, walking in the beautiful parks of Seattle, etc.

From time to time I may check-in here and share my thoughts and discoveries. For now, I'm enjoying my final cups of coffee and looking forward to heading off to the farmers' market shortly. Wish me luck!