How long did you fast?
6 days
When did you fast?
February 14-19, 2004
What is your age, gender, weight before your fast, and height?
48, Female, 5’7 1/2″, 166 lbs
What was your weight after completing the fast? What is your weight now?
155 lbs/157 lbs
Why did you decide to fast?
I needed to detox from caffeine diet soda, salt, dairy, other foods.
What was your biggest apprehension going into the fast?
I knew that the fast wasn’t really long enough to do a complete detox.
Did you ever consider ending the fast during the process? Why and why did you continue or stop?
No.
Did you accomplish what you set out to do with your fast?
It’s a good beginning, and now I’m committed to continuing with the raw diet to complete the detox process.
Would you recommend that people have their fasts supervised? Why or why not?
Absolutely. I think it’s critical to have the daily consultations to get feedback about any symptoms or questions as the fast progresses. The sharing of information establishes a bond of trust and opens communications as the process unfolds.
Why did you choose to fast at the Tanglewood Wellness Center?
I’ve been here before and really liked the doctor, staff and center itself, as well as its proximity to Washington.
What was your experience at the TWC like?
It was restful and therapeutic. Dr. Trader and the staff are very caring and gently encouraging.
What did you experience during the fast?
At first the need to sleep. Later a few aches and soreness as I began detoxing, some restlessness and emotional issues surfacing.
How did you spend your time?
Resting, reading, talking with other guests, meditating, attending talks.
Just purified water? Did you get hungry?
No, hunger didn’t really enter in. I did think about coffee for a couple of days and then that faded.
Did you get weak?
I did feel weak around the 4-6 days, but just rested and took it easy.
What was the best part of the process for you?
Time away from a hectic schedule to rest, relax and get off of the substances that were impairing my ability to function at my best.
What was the most difficult part of the process for you?
Some of the emotional issues that come up without food to obscure them.
Was it ever painful?
There was some muscle pain, a brief, but intense headache and nausea and some lower back pain, as the toxins started releasing.
What did you experience after the fast?
It’s only day 2, but already I have more energy and feel myself coming “back to (a more serene) life.”
Did you experience any changes due to fasting?
So far, I feel cleaner, calmer, and more grounded.
What kind of diet did you follow after your fast?
I’m committed to be raw for the next 6 weeks to allow the healing process to continue.
Was eating difficult afterwards?
No.
Would you fast again?
Yes, I’m still interested in doing a long fast.
What piece of advice would you give to other fasters?
Realize that it’s a process and that, as you go through the rough spots they pass.
How could your experience at the Tanglewood Wellness Center be improved?
A second movie night, or more sharing question/answer sessions with the doctor/staff, particularly for short-term fasters.