The Goal Conqueror

This is what I aspire to be. 

It's incredibly difficult to set manageable goals - it takes a rather intricate understanding of not only what you're capable of doing, but moreover what you're capable of resisting.... and for how long.

As you all know, over the last 5 or so months I have been training for the Carlsbad Half Marathon (on 1/23/11) and, to my delight, completed it! I managed to run the entire thing in a pretty decent time for a first-timer (2:25)! I surprised myself. Taking on a challenge and actually seeing it through inspired a bit of self-assuredness... and a belief, albeit a small one, that I actually can accomplish something.

Now onto the next challenge.

This next battle deals with my bodily health and integrity. On Monday (1/31) I will begin a 21-day cleanse, which will hopefully rectify, or at least assist, my internals into becoming the self-sustaining system it once was. Between lymph issues, parasites, allergies, liver and kidney problems, heavy metals, etc, my body is by far the least efficient at taking care of itself out of most people I know. I exercise quite frequently and eat rather healthy, but through these efforts I have only managed to control my problems, not rid myself of them.

The cleanse is based off of the "Clean Program" created by Alejandro Junger, M.D., and expounded on in his amazingly informative book "Clean." It's not the most drastic of cleanses, yet appears to be one I can manage while achieving the same results, with a higher probability of maintaining those results with some permanency. For 21 days I will have 2 liquid meals and one solid meal. The liquid meals will consist of green juices, smoothies/shakes, or non-cooked soup, and the solid meal will consist of cooked, solid foods, that follow certain guidelines. I will be removing wheat, dairy, sugars, most fats, alcohol, caffeine, some fruits, and any processed/refined foods from my diet. Essentially, the program aims to eliminate any foods that are difficult to digest or contain allergens that tax the system, thus freeing up your body's energy to eliminate toxins, yeast, or any other negative substances that plague your organs. Simultaneous with the detox, your body is provided the nutrients to replenish organs with the essentials and to restore the "intestinal flora." This, I'm learning, is the difference between this type of cleanse, and most others, such as the Master Cleanse. The book, and testimonials of the book, purport there will be a myriad of positive effects, including increased energy, better sleeps, possibly weight loss, and a clearer-thinking brain. With all the possible positive effects, I figured - how can I pass up this opportunity?

While it is just that - a great opportunity - I've always had a weakness for food - bread, french fries and candy have been my ultimate indulgence/nemesis since I could walk, and it seems to be catching up with me. But hey - 3 weeks is nothing in this grand scheme we're a part of, right? They say the first few days tend to be the most difficult, but thereafter the body adjusts itself, and finds its way to physical and mental peace and clarity.

However, I will not fully mask my intentions as hopeful. Let it be known this is also my last-ditch effort to do something... anything... to heal myself. If it doesn't work, who knows what will.

Next up: Training for the La Jolla Half Marathon.

Salud!