Twelve days does not seem like a lot of time to most of us. In fact, 12 days seems like nothing. Unless you are slowly cutting out everything you eat and reducing it down to just liquids. To someone who has a terrible stomach a 12-day detox is kind of a small saving grace. When everything you eat hurts you might as well take a break and create a clean slate to start over.
I went into it knowing that I was going to feel like crap. I did not expect it to hit me as hard as it did though. I have felt like death warmed up. I know it will be better for me in the end but it has been kicking me in the but.
1. Know your plan.
Picking a plan that fits your body is key. I am using a plan that works off your Dosha which is the energy that flows though your body. Picking a plan you think fits your body and lifestyle is key to get the best effects. If you want to use a plan that works off your Dosha simply take an online quiz and look up a plan according to your results.
2. Prepare your food.
You do not want to get to the middle of your detox and be temped to cheat. Make sure you have all the food you need well in advance.
3. Stay motivated.
Keep yourself going. After a few days you will want to give up. Look at the bigger picture; you are doing this to become healthier. It is not an easy road.
4. Have someone hold you to your word.
Having a buddy or family member hold you to your word keeps you honest. When you want to give up turn to them for guidance.
5. Do it with a friend.
I'll be honest; you will want to complain and it will be nice to have someone who understands. I did mine alone and if I do it again I will find someone to do it with me. Everything is better together anyways.
6. Sleep.
Even if you can run on five hours make sure you are getting at least eight. Your body is repairing itself and needs rest. When you have time take a nap to give yourself a boost in energy and your body a chance to catch up.
7. Keep yourself busy.
You need rest but read a book or watch the new season of Supernatural on Netflix. Just make sure you do something so you are not constantly thinking about the food you can not eat.
8. Work out.
Don't stop while you detox. Working out is heathy and though your energy will be low don't stop. Back off. Go easier than you normally do but working out will help you detox and keep your mood lifted.
9. Timing.
Timing is everything. Pick a week when you do not have a lot going on. Your body will be under a lot of stress and you do not need any added pressure.
10. Cravings.
You will want to cheat. Don't. Keep a list of things you crave. That is your body telling you that you do not need them or do not need as much. After all, we want what we can't have.
11. Tea.
Natural tea is your friend. It will give you an energy boost but it will also help curb some of the side effects of detoxing like dizziness, nausea, headache, and stomachache.
12. Water.
We are mostly water. When we are sick we drink water to help flush the illness out and the same goes for now. Water will help flush the toxins out. If you want a little kick add some lemon.
