Over the summer, I had a friend recommend I try acupuncture with Natasha Baihly at Holistic Health Associates of Boonsboro to help alleviate some issues that I have been dealing with in this peri-menopausal stage of my life. After booking my appointment and setting up my new patient account online, I stumbled upon the detoxification program that was being offered at HHA in the fall. The detox program listed benefits such as weight loss, lower cholesterol, reduced aches and pains, increased energy, and improved hormonal health. I became intrigued as I suffer from anemia, bloating, puffiness, irritability, mood swings, emotional ups and downs, anxiety, fatigue, joint stiffness, and insomnia. I have never tried detoxification, and I do not suffer from any food allergies, nor do I take any prescription medications. I’m always looking for opportunities to challenge myself, so I signed up for the full detoxication program (with supplements). While I don’t consume large amounts of caffeine in my diet (one cup of coffee in the morning), I knew that would not be a problem, but giving up dairy products (especially cheese) would be tough. I was determined to follow the plan’s instructions along with the list of foods/beverages to eat and those to avoid. It wasn’t as difficult as I thought it would be and although I have never tried the vegan lifestyle, I was able to get through that week without any struggles. While I did not exercise as much as I should have, I tried to stay busy with work and other events so that I would not think about all the unhealthy food that I gave up over the 21-day program.
I was fully committed and determined to make the best of the program that it had to offer by participating in the onsite meeting at the Common Market, the Zoom meetings, and the Facebook group. At the end of the program, I had lost 6 pounds. My overall health improved, and I now suffer less bloating, puffiness, stiffness, aches, and pains. My energy level has increased, my irritability and mood swings have diminished, and I noticed a slight improvement in my sleep. I don’t feel as anxious and tired as I had before the detoxification. I had bloodwork performed the Monday after the detox was over, and my cholesterol is now 177 (it was 226 when I last had it checked in March 2023). All my other numbers are good and in the recommended ranges (besides my iron level but that is a separate issue that is being monitored by my physician).
I plan to continue living a healthier lifestyle and pay closer attention to the foods I consume. I look forward to participating in future detoxification programs that HHA has to offer. Many thanks to Ryan Diener and HHA for this educational opportunity, guidance, and support on health and wellness.