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This past fall, I had some new painful and persistent symptoms in my body. My body has been speaking to me. She was not happy. I was on multiple courses of antibiotics and other treatments. These new symptoms came up out of the blue for me. After about two months of misery, a friend of mine (who is an acupuncturist) suggested that I see an acupuncturist. So I messaged a family friend who used to treat my daughter, and made an appointment for myself. At my appointment later in the week, we chatted about symptoms, pain and sensations and she looked at my tongue (because that's what Traditional Chinese Medicine folks do) and we talked about diet. The big D. The elephant under the table. What was I eating everyday? I wondered for a moment if I could lie to her....would she know if I was lying? I decided that I was there with the goal of reducing my symptoms and feeling better, so telling the truth was probably my best bet. It's easy to get into habits & routines (good and bad) and while we were chatting, it became really clear to me that I was ingesting lots of white flour and sugars throughout my days. It had become my normal. She did not make a big stink about my realization, but gently suggested that perhaps this was at the root of my problem. After our chat, I had an amazing acupuncture session - my first! Nope, it didn't hurt. It was strangely energetic and relaxing all at the same time. I left with an open heart and mind and no plan at all (very strange for a planner like myself). Over the next few days, I felt very guided to release white flours (gluten), starchy carbohydrates and refined sugars. And so I did. This was a month ago. It was challenging at points, but I spent lots of prep time and funds at my local health food store. I purchased foods that I knew would fill me up and keep me feeling good (and not too restricted). Plus I found some amazing gluten and sugar free treats that have kept me on the right path on this journey. And I've been cooking lots of whole foods. Currently roasted chicken, roasted cauliflower and sweet potato stackers are some of my favorites. I had some serious detox symptoms at days 4-6 (extreme fatigue, headache, irritability, feeling hungover and confused), but I feel so good now. And in the midst of this elimination/restriction, I am being gentle with myself and seeing what my body needs and can tolerate. I know that the path to health must have flexibility and gentleness in order to work for me. I mean, I am going out for dinner and drinks with friends on Thursday and will savor and have fun and eat yummy food (and take care of my body). What I am learning & remembering (or lessons along the way) :
I feel really good with these changes and my body is grateful Whole/real foods are filling and help me to feel my best I am strong, capable, enough I will make mistakes I feel stable, guided & kind (my mental health is greatly impacted by food) There are three kinds of nut butters in my purse right now (and popcorn and nuts in my car) There is love in discipline I have less puff in my gut And my pants are sagging. Thanks for reading xo Kristen
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