Today I have been fasting (liquid - juice only) for one week. Here are a few truths:
- This is the longest I’ve ever done a full fast.
- The first four days were easy.
- I’ve had some cravings (day 1:popcorn, day 2&3: pizza, day 4: waffles…)
- I’ve had some GREAT prayer times.
- I’ve mostly gotten lots of sleep.
- I’ve lost 10 lbs (I know it’s mostly water, but still…)
I admit that yesterday was a low point. Starting after day four, the hunger pains set in with a new fervor. The low point? My co-worker caught me sniffing a can of almonds. It was a weak moment.
I have really enjoyed this fast, which is a surprise to me. In the past, I dreaded fasting. It encourages me because, these past few years I’ve been working on “being disciplined.” I see some growth!
A few short days into my fasting, I realized that I wasn't "limiting" my intake of juice and had to set up a more controlled schedule (juice does have calories after all!) I believe that fasting should have an element of denial in it. This helped, but also brought the hunger pains! (I'm getting just over 800 calories per day, a little more than half of what I normally do.)
Another thing I’ve struggled with is a low level of boredom. I realize how much food, eating, food prep have dominated my social life. This is not necessarily bad, yet when it is removed I shouldn’t be stumped for ways to hang out with people. I’ve been challenged to get more creative in this area.
One week to go. Looking forward to it.
I’d love to hear how others are doing. Share what you are learning about fasting!
