Detox for the Mind, Body and Soul

Toward mid-March, I felt exhausted and felt myself operating from a depleted place. I wanted to do something to cleanse my mind, body, and soul. So for five weeks, I took a break from social media, watching TV, and decided to take on a vegan detox.

The first few days were rough! I felt like I was making too many changes all at once, but I knew that it was exactly what I needed to do to get the clarity I desperately needed. I used to think that I would feel so disconnected from the world, but it’s been quite the opposite. I’ve never felt this connected to myself and all those around me. I feel more present in my life. 

All of a sudden, I had time…..so much time. I had time for all these things I thought I would never have time to do.

I spent so much time reading, having meaningful conversations with my loved ones, praying, meditating, working on creative projects I’ve been putting off, and more. I had less anxiety than usual which tremendously helped with my sleep patterns. It was liberating. Cathartic even! I noticed so much while doing all the things that were already part of my daily routine. Simple things like walking through my neighborhood brought me more joy. I discovered that there are so many beautiful houses and views that I’ve never noticed.

I cooked every day. Since I observe Orthodox lent and go vegan for about 55 days around this time, the vegan detox wasn’t too bad except for the “no crabs” part. Going without carbs, especially my kryptonite - bread, was difficult at first. I had headaches for the first few days. But by the end of the first week, I noticed that I had so much energy, and the food I was consuming was not causing discomfort. My plates became as colorful as the life I wanted to live. I tried so many new veggies, like leeks- my new obsession! I came to enjoy going to the grocery store, which used to be my least favorite thing to do.

I even took part in my mom’s garden to grow some of my favorite veggies. This part is weird because I felt like I am slowly becoming my parents, and it’s a bit overwhelming *sighs in adulthood*.

Taking this time has been so meaningful for me. It has given me space to connect with my inner being. I have never felt this emotionally, spiritually, physically, and mentally aligned. It has been an incredible experience and is one of the best decisions I have made this year. It has helped me be intentional and mindful about how I spend my time, the food I consume, and the energy I allow into my space. I am so grateful to have people I connect with within the digital space and the communities I am a part of, but it’s important to be mindful of consumption.

We all deserve renewed energy, peace, clarity, presence, and much more. So if you’re reading this, I hope you always take time for yourself. Rest, love, and care towards self don’t need to be earned, justified, or explained - we are each undoubtedly deserving of it. 

Sending you much love and light.

Thank you for reading