Why is it that whenever we quit negative behaviors, we tend to quit the good behaviors that accompany them?  There’s an old saying about not throwing the baby out with the bath water, yet I recognize now how I’ve done that with every self-destructive behavior I overcome.

Smoking called for me to step outside into the sunshine a couple of times each day to take a few deep breaths (ok, so it was smoke I was inhaling, but I was still breathing slowly, deeply, and rhythmically) and enjoy a break from my routine as well as nature and socializing.  When I quit, I stopped taking regular breaks outdoors and consciously breathing deeply.   It is time reintroduce a couple of outdoor “breathing breaks” into my daily life.

Cocaine cost a ridiculous amount of time and money to believe I was confident, energized, and awesome.  When I quit, I became overly cautious and responsible with my time and money, probably atoning for the prior excess.  It is past time to indulge in regular pedicures, inspirational events and media, yoga classes and other things that enhance my energy and confidence.

Drinking was quite a social time for me.  It was an excuse to invite friends and colleagues out to release the stress of the day or week with indulgent spending, tasteless jokes, loud laughter, and much dialogue.  Drinking more often meant enjoying more frequent social interaction.  Now that I seldom drink, I find I have drastically decreased my social activity.  I am now finding new ways to indulge myself socially and often spiritually like drumming circles, group lunches, etc.

Sugar is my original addiction which triggers the same sensual dopamine surge through the body that cocaine releases while being cheap and available everywhere.  As I decrease my sugar intake, I continue exploring new foods and satisfying my taste buds with rich-tasting organic foods and delicious herbal teas.  I see the value in turning off all the distractions and mindfully savoring our meals.   These foods may not release dopamine, but they certainly are making my body feel great!

Fear and pain drive all self-destructive behavior.  No longer content to hide in plain site and medicate with vices, I continue along my journey healing trauma and stepping deeper into vulnerability and intimacy.  Next week feels like a quantum leap!

Today’s Ceremony Detox Menu:  Frozen strawberry/blueberry/wheatgrass smoothie with a boiled egg for breakfast.  Herbal teas and water throughout the day.  Apple for snack.  Oatmeal for lunch on this cold day.  Since I ate my lunch late yesterday and had no dinner, I’ll have that fish tonight with boiled fresh new potatoes, and steamed broccoli.

Tonight’s Unplugged Time:  Quality time with my cats and my journal beneath a blanket on my loveseat.  Maybe a heart-to-heart chat with a kindred-spirit friend.  Journaling and then off to bed.

Namaste and much love,

Sheryl Sitts, Founder, Journey of Possibilities

Spirit guided me to create this “Countdown to Sacred Plant Medicine Intensive”  blog series to help demystify this sacred healing/awakening path while simplifying the dietary preparations by sharing practical ways I am preparing for the Amazon while working and living in a modern society.   If something I share sparks your curiosity or interest, please COMMENT BELOW and let’s create a conversation here.  I receive no compensation for sharing here but am drawn by my heart to create a safe space and portal of possibility for anyone seeking hope and help to know there are many natural solutions we have not fully explored.  Only by searching within and carefully selecting holistic modalities that resonate for us and practitioners who hold their work and healing space sacred can we truly unlock our own amazing journey of possibilities!  I am here for you if I can help in any way.