carefree_smallHopefully this day finds you in good health and excellent spirits. I recently completed a 7-day juice fast and am definitely feeling a whole lot healthier. My schedule had gotten really hectic and I found myself caught up in a cycle of fast food and take-out. I was beginning to feel really bogged down and knew I needed a serious cleanse. I had attempted to fast in the past only to quit after a day or two. Determined to make it through this time, I began to research the proper way to fast and possible side effects. I learned that the first 3 days of a fast are the hardest. Most people will experience some withdrawal symptoms, such as headache, tiredness, fever, irritability, hunger, and body aches. These symptoms rarely last past the 2nd or 3rd day. I woke up on the 3rd day of the fast feeling very energetic and alive, and to my surprise I didn’t begin my daily fight with the snooze button!

As each day passed I felt more relaxed, centered and focused. I no longer salivated at food commercials and even stood strong while at a restaurant with friends. Not to mention I slept better than I had ever slept in my life. My meditation practice grew deeper and through it I found that letting my schedule get out of hand was negatively affecting my eating habits and ultimately my health and that of my family. In yoga we are taught to practice moderation, or brahmacharya. To follow the yama of brahmacharya, one must practice moderation in all things. Through my experience I came to realize that I must not only practice moderation in the things I eat but also in the tasks I take on, even if I think I can handle it.

Starting today, be mindful of the demands that you put on yourself. Never allow one activity to overtake your life. Enjoy life and live it to the fullest! Balance your time wisely and be sure to do all the things that make you happy.

Om Shanti,

Dana
Creative Director, Spiritual Essence Yoga
www.essenceyoga.net

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