Just finished a 21 day fast and here is what I learned...

Friends, I just want to share several things that were so different this time during this fast. Firstly, I have been fasting off and on for many years. I guess I could be called a purist because when I say that I water fast... that is what I do. Water only. BUT, I did stumble upon something that kept me from stopping. Several times when I thought that I couldn't do it any longer, instinctively I drank a few tsp of pure Apple Cider Vinegar (not the kind you find in the grocery store, but, the kind that is at healthfood stores.) I only did it when I felt I couldn't go on, but it did get my through 21 days. No cramping of the legs this time but had all the other symptoms that is customary. Each and every fast that I have ever done is always a little different.

AS stated, this is my 21st day (third one in last 6 months). I had made an appointment to get my teeth cleaned today and my gums were extremely puffed and bleed easily. I normally always floss, but thought since no food was going in, there was no reason to floss. Besides, I didn't want toothpaste in my mouth, so I dry brushed each and every day. My hygenist told me that food was not what causes calculous and tarter buildup, but, it was bacteria that causes it. What I am trying to say is that it is imperative that while fasting, flossing must be done. She told me that is why my gums were so fragile because of all the new bacteria, etc.etc.etc.

When I decide to fast, no amount of luck has ever gotten me through it. It is absolute determination to conquer the goal that you have made for yourself. I have had to avoid family dinners, still cook, and JUST NOT eat... I tell no one what I am doing. I do pray and meditate.

That is the hard news, here is the glorious news. I have an eating disorder...uncontrollable binge eating. After many many many fasting attempts and successes, I always binged madly when starting back to eating. This time I have no desire to binge. I simply started to eat like normal (no, I did not go the juice route.) This is a miracle for me. I am not certain why the desire is completely gone... possibly this time I used prayer and meditation and reflection during this fast, maybe it was the ACV.... or possibly because of all of the other times that I have successfully fasted. I have never successfully returned to food. This time has been glorious.

I leave you with words of encouragement. I have never felt better in my life. Each of those 21 days were hell for me... one way or another... mostly, mental because I have relied so much on eating. I lost my weight, feel fantastic, but most of all, I FEEL ALIVE and grateful to be alive. My body is so precious to me and I want to thak God for creating such an amazingly wonderful creation. Today, I am thankful to have a life. Even the toxins in my brain seem to be gone. I pray I have those days from now on and I pray that you have them too.

I remain,
Shay