My first water fast 
brianc86
16 y
1,161
Hi everyone,
Please excuse my lenghty post but as a first time poster on curezone I feel it's necessary just this one time.
First off, I want to say thanks to everyone for all the helpful and insightful information that I've found on this forum. I have been browsing the Water Fasting forum almost daily for the past few weeks and have since then being doing more and more online research regarding Water Fasting as a mode of healing. I find it highly intriguing. This has then led to the discovery of, through ever more internet research, the world of raw foods- which has also sparked my interest. It seems to me that these two practices go hand-in-hand. So, after abit more looking into, I am planning to start a water fast- for an unknown length of time- followed by a raw foods diet.
Here is some background on me. I'm a 21 y/o male (22 in august). I am 6'1 and 185 ibs. From about the ages of 15 to 19, I led a typical bodybuilding lifestyle. Though I never have taken any form of steroids, I would eat 4-5 large meals per day including lots of mostly non-organic meat, oatmeal, rice, egg whites, protein powders, yams, and other such calorie-dense foods. On overage, I would train with weights 5 days per week with 1-2 cardio and flexibility sessions. All this training combined with anywhere up to 6,000 calories per day led me to the weight of 220 ibs at around 13% bodyfat.
After what I know now about health and nutrition, it amazing me to think of how unhealthy a lifestyle this was for me. At the time, though, I was ignorant and just wanted to be "one of those big guys". As you can tell by my shift in weight, I have drastically changed my ways. While still exercising 4-5 times per week (mainly cardio) I significantly decreased my meat consumption down to 1-2 times per week. I eat an average of about 3,000 calories per day. My diet has mainly consisted of whole grains, fruit, vegetables, beans, lentils, nuts and seeds with little dairy for nearly 2 years.
Over the past month, though, (since learning about a raw-foods diet) I have decreased my grain consumption, eliminated all meat, and increased my raw fruit and vegetable intake. Day by day I can feel my body becoming healthier. I feel incredibly light on my feet, clear headed, and relaxed. It is amazing so far.
There is one thing that I feel I need to incorporate into my new found healthy lifestyle: water fasting. This seems to be such a simple, foundational, and natural approach to healing.
My main question at this point is regarding the type of water to conume over the duration of the fast. Would store-bought distilled water be optimal? Or electrolyte containing Smart water? I'm looking to find best ways to maximise my benefits from this water fast. I understand the length of the fast as well as abstaining from any and all food is important. At this point, I'm not sure how long I want this fast to be. I feel like I should just start and fast till I feel my body truly is hungry and desires pure, raw foods again. What are some other valuable tips and strategies you experienced fasters have learned? Any and all help is much appreciated! Thanks again.
Brian
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- Re: My first water fast motherweary
16 y
1,215
This is a reply to # 1,213,265Hello Brian. Welcome to this wonderful forum. The people here are pretty amazing, and all very supportive of one another. I think that is the biggest factor in success during your first fasts. It certainly seems as though you have done some pretty amazing things for yourself the past couple of years, and you are so young. It is wonderful to hear that you are finding your way to whole nutrition so young. Your offspring will much appreciate it:)
Distilled water is the standard. It is what the "fasting gurus" recommend, as well as the highly respected people on this forum. There are some who have used the smart water, but I was told that it is totally unnecessary, and people have been fasting way longer than smart water has been around. Have you read Shelton's book on fasting? Many times in the beginning I posted a question on the forum only to find it moments later in Shelton's book. Here is the link to it:
http://soilandhealth.org/02/0201hyglibcat/020127shelton.III/020127.toc.htm
Others may have more links to offer you, but his is the most respected on the subject. Have you heard of Weston Price? You should google him. Everyone has there own ideas of what "whole nutrition" is, but he is who I follow. Ancient practices speak much truth to me. I am not a raw foodist, but you are right - many fasters are. Everyone has there own truth. Well, I am quite new to fasting myself, but I have read two books so far. Shelton's of course, and most of one that mouseclick referred me to. I don't remember the link, but I will look it up for you if you would like. I have done one fast of 8 days, about a month ago. Good luck Brian - I only wish my Brian were as eager to be healthy. I am always very happy to hear that people are on there way to health. I suppose I care for all the people of the world not just my own children. That is why I call myself Motherweary. Caring so much can be exhausting, but I cannot shut it off. It is just who I am, and maybe someday it will lead me to do amazing things - who knows. We have to choose to let things be positive or negative. Something may hurt, but if it never would have spoken to us through pain - would we have ever thought to change it?
Please excuse any rambling on my part. Internet is the only place I can let my tendency to teach or preach (whichever you want to call it.) as my family now blows me off with polite indifference. I have lost credit with them. My views are so much different from theirs, I challenge so many of their beliefs that it is just too much for them, so I lose credit somehow. Well again, good luck; I think you will find the support here wonderful, as I have. Blessed Be.
Motherweary
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- Re: My first water fast brianc86
16 y
1,013
This is a reply to # 1,213,302Hi motherweary. Thank you for the warm welcome and wonderful response. From what I've read, the people on this forum, such as yourself, are highly supportive and considerate. This is one of the reasons why I have been drawn to this forum in particular. So, I thank you all once again.
My search for knowledge in the realm of nutrition, health, and well-being has become intensified these past few years. I view it now as an amazing journey of self discovery and new found companionship between like-minded individuals. New friends have been made along the way and I can feel my life changing, for the better, because of it. I aspire to continue this process in this forum as well. And yes, hopefully my future kids will thank me for the wisdom I share with them :D
I have gone ahead and started my fast last night at 9pm. I figure why not? What have I got to lose (besides toxins) by starting the fast now? I feel completely ready for it and will take it as learning experience; a stepping stone toward a healhful new me. With distilled water at my side and laptop nearby, I am ready.
Thank you for the link. I will begin reading it today. These past few weeks I have read parts of Shelton's books (which I love) and will continue to absorb his teachings. I have also read Rational Fasting by Arnold Ehret as well as the many wonderful posts by the members here. So much to learn!
You are right- caring for others can be exausting- but I do not doubt for a second that your love will come back to you in more ways than one. Continue to love, inspire, and lead this lifestyle with no regrets. Pain, as part of life, will always be a teacher to us. Again, I thank you for giving me a portion of your knowledge and caring heart.
Take care my friend.
Brian
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- Re: My first water fast motherweary
16 y
1,265
This is a reply to # 1,213,539It is amazing, and wonderful, exciting, and a little sad (for not have known sooner) this journey we are on. I feel as though I am in a dance - a dance of life and the beat of the drum is so exhilarating. Though I am convinced that the key to longevity is to smile way more than you ever frown:D
You are right, you have nothing to lose. I am excited to start my next fast. "Rational Fasting" I have never heard of it before. I will be looking into it. I'm always on the lookout for new resources.
"....but I do not doubt for a second that your love will come back to you in more ways than one. "
It comes back to me in two ways. There names are Titus and Brendon. They are 3(almost 4) and 2. I thank you for your kind words.
"Continue to love, inspire, and lead this lifestyle with no regrets. Pain, as part of life, will always be a teacher to us. Again, I thank you for giving me a portion of your knowledge and caring heart."
I am greatly touched by your kind and wise words. May we all continue to seek knowledge, and spread it as far as we can. Again I thank you, and will be here for your support. As always, Blessed Be. Motherweary
- Re: My first water fast motherweary
16 y
1,265
- Re: My first water fast brianc86
16 y
1,013
- Re: My first water fast chrisb1
16 y
1,245
R
This is a reply to # 1,213,265Hello brianc86,
a very big welcome to our forum.
There is a wealth of information available here either from previous posts and the FAQ section at the top centre of the page.
Some here consider me to be one of those fasting "gurus" that motherweary mentioned in reply to your post as I have 30 years experience with the study of the subject and Natural Hygiene generally, undergoing two extended fasts of my own, the former of which saved my life.
Motherweary is absolutely right about the type of water to consume whilst fasting (or at any other time) in the distilled form, but only according to thirst, as any excess burdens the body with the work of extra elimination..............
Dr H M Shelton.........
" Both Carrington and Macfadden advocate drinking more water than thirst calls for while fasting. Mr. Carrington advocates drinking water as a means of relieving morbid sensations in the stomach, that may arise during the early part of a fast. Water-drinking for this purpose is the use of water as a palliative and not to serve any need of the body. Water taken in excess of need must be thrown out speedily lest the excess result in harm, and it does not occasion any increase in the elimination of toxins.
This is a mistake that the early Hygienists--Graham, Jennings, Trall, Alcott, etc.--did not make. They frowned upon much water drinking. The fact is that there is neither need for so much water, nor benefit from taking it. Drinking water as a mere matter of routine is not advisable. One may rely upon the instinct of thirst to tell him when he should drink and how much. Drink when thirsty. Do not drink when not thirsty."
WATER DRINKING DURING THE FAST
http://www.soilandhealth.org/02/0201hyglibcat/020127shelton.III/020127.ch29.htm
Other tips?
Fasting is essentially a physiological rest where the max' benefits to health by far are achieved with the max' amount of physical rest to conserve the energies of the body and divert it other more useful purposes; however, this does not mean living in a state of suspended animation but to curb activity to the minimum to achieve those ends.
#1. Sleep as much as possible, although most fasters require far less sleep than the average.
#2. Dealing with the Boredom: watch some movies, go for the occasional walk, meditate and so on.
#3. Read as much as you can on the subject from the best link provided by motherweary and from other sources; this will provide any needed motivation and inspiration to continue with the length of fast you require.
#4 Post on this forum as often as you feel the need, for added support and with any questions you may have re' any symptoms.
This is the best advice I could give you.
I wish you every success, now that you have found a new and true path to wellness and health.
In the words of my own mentor....
Yours in Health-Truth & Medical Liberty.
Chrisb1.
- Re: My first water fast brianc86
16 y
1,132
This is a reply to # 1,213,387Hi Chrisb1. Thank you for the welcome! Your posts have been such joy to read and learn from. You have my utmost respect. 30 years is such an extended period of time of study in one subject. It is difficult for me to comprehend at this age I suppose. I find it amazing and inspiring.
The ability to listen to the body's needs is so often overlooked and ignored by people everywhere I go. Since my lifestyle change, I take notice of people stuffing their faces with horrible food choices in attempt to numb their feelings and induce a fabricated sense of temporary comfort. I've been there before. But now, I no longer desire to be attatched or dependent on food to make me feel happiness. This is why fasting has become so appealing to me. Don't get me wrong. I still enjoy food. But I now know the difference between how my body will feel and react after a large steak, potato, and milk dinner vs. how it will feel after a raw smoothie made of kale, bananas, and blueberries- a world of difference.
So, with this view in mind, it makes sense to me to listen to the body even more so while fasting- especially in terms of water quality and quantity. If my body feels like it could benefit a short and mild walk, then that's what I will do. If I feel the need for a nap, then nap it is (assuming my schedule permits).
Thank you for your recommended list of fasting strategies. I have started to employ them since the beginning of my fast last night at 9pm. It is almost noon here and I feel amazing. So far so good. I will keep everyone posted on my progress.
From a natural hygienic perspective, sunlight exposure is important. This I know. Is there any differece in terms of sunlight I should be aware of while on a fast? Should I aim to get even more sun and fresh air than I would normally? I usually get sunlight for about 20min everyday during the spring and summer months in the Seattle area. I avoid burning at all costs and have a light base tan.
Thank you again for your honesty, guidance, and willingness to help others. Best wishes to you.
Brian
- Re: My first water fast chrisb1
16 y
986
This is a reply to # 1,213,586Hello again brianc86,
as you are probably aware, all of Nature's agencies are needed for optimal health, with exposure to sunlight being just one of these. Sunlight and sunbathing along with fresh air, and warmth and so on should be utilized by the body in greater or lesser amounts for its biological and physiological needs.
Sun-baths, light-baths, and air-baths were known collectively as the atmospheric cure. Saleeby quoted his French students as saying, "Baths of water are good, baths of air are better, baths of light are best."
Benjamin Franklin used to have the habit of taking air baths each morning in his room. He also encouraged other people into the doing the same, and spoke highly of the benefits he received. Ben Franklin would also undress completely when doing mental work. Adolph Just, of Germany, also laid great stress on the air-bath.
Air exposure over the whole body can increase metabolism by fifty per cent in ten minutes. Thyroid extract, medicine's only claimed stimulant of metabolism, is said to require a year to accomplish this same thing. An air-bath of just twenty minutes reduces the hydrogen-ion content of the blood to normal. No drug method known can do this in any length of time.
Such is the power of Nature.
However, there is very little difference with sunbathing while eating as when fasting, being careful not to overexpose the body to too much sunlight. The heat of the day in particular should be avoided. Maximum benefit is procured with sunlight exposure before midday and after 4.00pm in the cooler parts of the day. The suns heat is extremely enervating and especially so while fasting and should therefore be avoided.
In the UK here there is an old adage "Only mad dogs and Englishmen sit out in the midday sun". How true that really is.
Build your exposure to sunlight and fresh-air gradually on a daily basis, where if you are already receiving 20 minutes of exposure, this can safely be increased on a daily basis to even 3 to 4 hours.
It is said that the body stops the production of Vitamin D3 or its precursor within 30 minutes to one hour of light-exposure, of which it has been shown to reduce the incidence of all cancers by a massive 77%; but there are benefits to sunlight exposure that go much further than this, in particular, the nervous system and the Brain are greatly benefited; intelligence is also improved.
THE SUN BATH.
http://www.soilandhealth.org/02/0201hyglibcat/020127shelton.III/020127.ch45.htm
THE AIR BATH.
http://www.soilandhealth.org/02/0201hyglibcat/020127shelton.III/020127.ch46.htm
I do tend to rant on a bit, so sorry if this seems overly long.
Regards
Chrisb1.
- Re: My first water fast chrisb1
16 y
986
- Re: My first water fast brianc86
16 y
1,132
- Re: My first water fast motherweary
16 y
1,215
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