Right now, I am in the middle of a 3-day water fast, and let me tell you—it’s been far more challenging than I anticipated. But every time I feel like giving up, I come back to my “why.” Why am I doing this? What am I hoping to gain? These reflections keep me going.
There have been countless moments when I’ve wanted to grab something—anything—to quiet the pangs of hunger and ease my sense of unrest. I’ve watched as my mind tries to convince me that 36 hours is enough or that stopping now wouldn’t make much of a difference. Then, I start to future-trip, thinking about how far away the finish line feels.
Remembering the bigger picture–my why… I take a deep breath, make another cup of tea, step outside for a walk, or dive into my work. In these small moments of discomfort, I’ve found peace. It’s remarkable how the sensations shift and lose their grip when I lean into them instead of resisting. This experience has been a powerful reminder of how adaptable and resilient the human body is—and how often we underestimate its innate ability to heal.
There are many different types of fasts, a topic I’ve taught about at length in the past. Maybe you’ve even tried intermittent fasting or OMAD (one meal a day) or juice fasting. A 3-day water fast would be considered an extended fast and it’s something that’s been getting a lot of attention these days, so I wanted to try it for myself! And I have to say, I love it. Not only do I love all the benefits that are now being researched and made available, I love that it is one of the most essential tools in a detox toolkit.
Now more than ever I am convinced that we have to learn how to properly detox the body. It’s not enough to simply avoid toxins. We are being bombarded at an unprecedented level with toxins, and sadly there is still a lot of it that’s out of our control.
Why Detox?
So let’s talk about detox. Our modern world has inundated us with messages about “doing more” to stay healthy: take this pill, avoid these foods, exercise harder, eat more protein, cut out sugar, and so on. While some of these strategies definitely have merit, they often overlook the body’s natural capacity for self-healing. What if, instead of adding more to our plates (literally and figuratively), we focused on removing the obstacles that prevent our bodies from thriving?
This is the essence of a true cleanse–when massive amounts of waste matter leave the by. In a good detox, we not only give the body a break from digestion and other daily demands, we create space for it to repair, rebalance, and rejuvenate. Detoxing isn’t about deprivation; it’s about nourishment—nourishing your cells, your gut, and your entire system. It’s about clearing the clutter so your body can function as it was designed to.
The Benefits of Detoxing
When done correctly, detoxing can:
- Support Gut Health: By eliminating inflammatory foods and giving your digestive system a break, you allow your gut to heal and restore balance.
- Boost Energy Levels: Many people report feeling lighter and more energized after a detox as their body clears out toxins and recalibrates.
- Improve Mental Clarity: Detoxing can have a profound effect on brain function, enhancing focus and reducing mental fog.
- Reduce Inflammation: Detoxing helps to decrease systemic inflammation, which is often linked to chronic pain and various health conditions.
- Balance Hormones: Detoxing can support hormonal balance, which is especially beneficial for women in perimenopause and menopause. Balanced hormones play a critical role in brain health, mood stability, and overall well-being.
- Kickstart Weight Loss: Detoxing can help shed excess water weight and bloating, making you feel less puffy and more vibrant.
- Strengthen Your Connection with Food: A detox can help reset your relationship with eating, making you more mindful of how and why you consume certain foods.
Join Me in the Next Level Detox
If the idea of fasting or detoxing resonates with you but feels overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone. My upcoming Next Level Detox is a gentle yet effective program designed to open up your detox pathways while nourishing your body with:
- Fresh green juices
- Hearty soups and broths
- Steamed veggies
- Comforting baked squashes
- Optional protein like fish and eggs
It’s a 5-day reset that focuses on nourishment and release, helping you reconnect with your body’s innate wisdom.
What’s Your Why?
My 3-day water fast has been a chance to explore how extended fasting impacts my mental clarity and cognitive function. I’m curious to see how my brain responds to being in a fasted state and how it might “turn on” in new and unexpected ways.
But everyone’s motivation for detoxing is different. Maybe you’re struggling with bloating, stubborn belly fat, or feeling stuck in a cycle of unhealthy eating habits. Perhaps you’re dealing with hormonal shifts, chronic fatigue, or simply want to feel at peace in your own body. Whatever your reason, detoxing (and fasting) can be a powerful tool for transformation.
Whether it’s physical discomfort, mental fatigue, or a desire to feel more in tune with your body, identifying your “why” is the first step toward transformation. What’s motivating you? What’s the one thing you’d like to resolve to feel better about yourself?
And if you’re ready to join me on your own detox journey, check out my Next Level Detox program and how it can support you.
With love,
Jules