Four days in November

Arcimboldo's "Fall" a sixteenth century painting--and such clever collage!

That granddaddy of all feasting holidays approaches us soon--yes,Thanksgiving is almost upon us and our guts will be busting.  My challenge to you (and to myself) before the day of gorging arrives is to do a four-day cleanse.  I know that I'm desperately feeling the need to "clean house."  Even though my eating and habits have been good, they can always be a little better. More importantly, a four-day intentional cleanse allows the body a break and starts the holiday season off right.  Seasonally, we are transitioning to winter and this is a perfect time to prepare the body (and mind) with a focused program that feels gentle and restorative, and yes, cleansing.  Here's the plan:

1. Breakfast: Oatmeal, or Warmed up Pumpkin (with coconut oil and maple syrup) or A Spice-filled Smoothie (Almond milk, cinnamon and nutmeg, 2 dates, and a banana). Chai tea​ for a bit of caffeine, and more healthy spice.
2. ​Lunch=Quinoa Pilaf, Steamed Greens, Warmed Pumpkin or Roasted Squash)
3. Dinner=Soup (Chicken Vegetable  is a nice choice), oatmeal with maple syrup.

• You sip hot water throughout the day, and drink 60 oz. of room temperature water as well.   
• Avoid nuts, dairy, and gluten.
• Foods are whole and simple.
• Keep yourself to three meals, if you get hungry, warm up a cup of almond milk with turmeric  and maple syrup.
• Meditation is welcome.
• Hot baths with Epsom Salts are rejuvenating.
• Showers with massage oil applied while skin is wet are restorative.
• Light exercise: Yoga and walking.
• Quiet, introspective time resets your body clock and calm.
• On the last evening drink a glass of prune juice to help "empty out."

We have much to be thankful for this holiday season, including the ability to exercise some restraint.  Give yourself that gift and your body will thank you!

Gratefully,
Lisabeth