I am starting the Cleanse diet tomorrow (no caffeine, no alcohol, no sugar or sweeteners, no animal products, no gluten), for several reasons.

First and foremost, I have been over-scheduled and stressed lately, and my eating reflects it. I notice when I don’t have enough space in my life, I crave comfort foods to calm me down and relax me.  I feel sluggish and slow right now, and am looking forward to that glorious clean energy feeling I know will arrive on Day 3 of the Cleanse. 

Second, I have some new recipes to try out in preparation for the Detox Bootcamp retreat I am hosting on May 15th/16th.  I am really branching out in this area versus the past, trying vegan cheese (what IS that anyway?) and gluten-free bagels.  We’ll see how that goes!

Lastly, I am sensing a need for an energetic shift in my life.  It seems recently that my mind has been clinging to needing to have more Nia students, bigger classes, etc.  Just when it seems that everyone wants to be outdoors and classes have been smaller!  I love how life works that way - always something for me to learn to let go of. J

Journaling in preparation for the Cleanse, I realized that I have been feeling run down, overwhelmed, emotionally scattered, and ungrounded for the past 2 months.  That became obvious to me when I came down with a cold last week, after having been well for the past year!  I decided to do the Cleanse for the full 21 days this time – never before!  My prior limit was 14 days.  I think I need the full length, but I am a little nervous about being able to go that long.  So, if you see me, I would appreciate any encouragement you can offer!

My intention is to use this Cleanse to shift to a relaxed and abundant state of mind, body, and spirit.  And to blog openly about my experiences for the next 21 days.  And so it is….

P.S. to learn more about the Cleanse, visit my website: www.stephaniecirihal.com.