<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Health Archives - Braving Boundaries</title> <atom:link href="https://bravingboundaries.com/category/health/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/category/health/</link> <description>PROFESSIONAL LIFE COACHING & TRAINING</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2025 10:36:36 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-ZA</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <image> <url>https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Asset-1.svg</url> <title>Health Archives - Braving Boundaries</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/category/health/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>Beyond Wellness Hours: Why Teams Need Real Training Time</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/</link> <comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:59:23 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Corporate Wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Effective communication]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Team building]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Team communication]]></category> <category><![CDATA[work-life balance]]></category> <category><![CDATA[coaching]]></category> <category><![CDATA[continuous learning]]></category> <category><![CDATA[corporate training]]></category> <category><![CDATA[corporate wellness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[employee development]]></category> <category><![CDATA[employee happiness]]></category> <category><![CDATA[leadership training]]></category> <category><![CDATA[learning culture]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health at work]]></category> <category><![CDATA[team growth]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wellbeing at work]]></category> <category><![CDATA[workplace engagement]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/?p=235389</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/">Beyond Wellness Hours: Why Teams Need Real Training Time</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_0 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_0"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_0 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_0 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h5><strong><span style="color: #be9727;"><em>WRITTEN BY ALICIA KOCH, FOUNDER OF <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a style="color: #be9727; text-decoration: underline;" href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">THE LEGAL BELLETRIST</a></span> </em></span></strong></h5> <p><strong><span style="color: #be9727;"><em></em></span></strong></p> <p class="p1">Ah wellness.</p> <p class="p1">We often take it for granted, don’t we? Like it’s this “thing” that needs to be constantly maintained. Another “task” or item on your to-do list that you need to take care of.</p> <p class="p1">So, when the company you work for provides activities, resources and screenings to support your and your colleague’s health, you are relieved that it’s one less thing you have to worry about. </p> <p class="p1">Sure, the goal of these activities is to help employees recharge, decompress from stress and return to work feeling more productive and engaged, but you often wonder whether one wellness day every couple of months is really going to cut it.</p> <p class="p1">Let’s be honest here, is one day of yoga or one day of mindfulness sessions really going to bridge the gap between feeling fulfilled and at peace with your work environment and working to your full potential? Or do you need something a little more concrete? A little more permanent? A little more constant?</p> <p class="p1">Let’s take a look, shall we?</p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_1 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>Learning Is a Sure-Fire Path to Happiness: And Science Proves It</strong></h2></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_0"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Learning-by-shironosov-from-Getty-Images-Pro.jpg" alt="Learning by shironosov from Getty Images Pro" title="Learning by shironosov from Getty Images Pro" class="wp-image-235404" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_2 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">The title from an article that appeared in <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2021/10/17/learning-is-a-sure-path-to-happiness-science-proves-it/?sh=8d93468768e3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">Forbes</span></a> talks about how learning empowers you – which is 100% true.</p> <p class="p1">While happiness arises when we are generous, grateful and connected with our people, research suggests that another path towards happiness is learning, growing and challenging ourselves in new ways – all of which results in us thriving.</p> <p class="p1">This can be translated to both our work lives and our personal lives. Thriving tends to occur when we experience success, but also when we are continually developing our skills and capabilities.</p> <p class="p1">Why is learning so important to happiness and thriving? What is it about learning that makes it a key ingredient of joy and achievement? There are multiple studies which demonstrate the relationship between learning and thriving and how these can increase happiness. Here are some of the outcomes –</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_1 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_1 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_1"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/1.png" alt="" title="1" class="wp-image-1486" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_2 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_3 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Self-Determination </strong>– we all crave choice and want to feel like we have some control over our lives and futures. Learning is frequently oriented toward self-determination. Some roles or companies may require certain learning, but many times learning is the result of pursuing your own interests and goals. No matter what the learning involved entails, it has the potential to open doors or provide options for growth that are uniquely interesting to you.</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_2 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_3 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_2"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/2.png" alt="" title="2" class="wp-image-1487" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_4 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_4 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Self-Confidence </strong>– learning can also be a source of self-confidence or likability. When you know more, you can contribute your perspectives and expertise and ask questions about others’ points of view that build on a solid foundation of your own knowledge. Your expanding capabilities can provide you with skills which help you contribute confidently to your current and future success.</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_3 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_5 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_3"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/3.jpg" alt="" title="3" class="wp-image-1488" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_6 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_5 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Resilience and Motivation</strong><i> – </i>learning also helps to build resilience. How you may ask? Well, learning requires you to admit that you don’t know everything. It also requires you to try something new and fill in gaps of information. So, both resilience and motivation. Fascinating research at the <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0896627314008046" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">University of California Davis</span></a> also finds that curiosity helps your brain remain more open to additional learning and this openness helps you remember new information and cement memories. </p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_4"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_7 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_4"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Resilient-Flower-in-Arid-Landscape.-by-Gemini-studio.jpg" alt="Resilient Flower in Arid Landscape. by Gemini studio" title="Resilient Flower in Arid Landscape. by Gemini studio" class="wp-image-235403" /></span> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_5 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_8 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_5"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/4.png" alt="" title="4" class="wp-image-1489" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_9 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_6 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Broadened Perspective</strong><i> – </i>when you learn new things, you also expand your horizons. Greater perspective is linked to experiences of happiness and joy. No matter what you’re studying, you gain a new view and extend your knowledge of the world. This broader view of others, of the world, of circumstances and of possibilities. Brings about greater happiness.</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_6 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_10 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_6"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/5.png" alt="" title="5" class="wp-image-1490" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_11 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_7 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><strong>Health and Happiness</strong><i> – </i>a study between Oxford University and the <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/17533015.2016.1193550" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">Workers Educational Association</span></a> of England and Scotland finds when people participate in classes outside of work, they improve their mental and physical health and report greater satisfaction with their lives. According to a study by <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10902-009-9166-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1">San Francisco State University</span></a>, those who engage in formal education experience greater happiness and life satisfaction overall.</p></div> </div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_7"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_12 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_8 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">So, learning – in whatever form it takes – on a regular basis has been proven to have a positive impact on overall wellbeing, happiness and confidence. It also helps you further your career.</p> <p class="p1">One would say that those are a lot of positives, as far as ongoing learning is concerned.</p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_9 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>So, are ad hoc wellness days enough? </strong></h2></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_10 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">We have already established two things –</p> <ol class="ol1"> <li class="li1">Wellness days offered by companies are intended to help employees recharge, decompress from stress and return to work feeling more productive and engaged; and </li> <li class="li1">Thriving in life and in work is a result of (amongst other things) continually developing our skills and capabilities. In continually learning.</li> </ol> <p class="p1">If we accept the above two points as fact, it makes sense that one wellness day every now and again is not enough. Companies should invest in scheduled, structured training days which seem to be essential for long-term team development, genuine behaviour change and sustainable workplace wellbeing.</p> <p class="p1">If a company is curious about what they will “get out of it,” here is a list of key benefits of employee training and how it can transform their workforce.</p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_11 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>10 Key Benefits of Employee Training</strong></h2></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_7"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="1500" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Happy-business-team-at-corporate-training-team-building-activity-diverse-employees-group.-by-Jovanmandic-from-Getty-Images.jpg" alt="Happy business team at corporate training, team building activity, diverse employees group. by Jovanmandic from Getty Images" title="Happy business team at corporate training, team building activity, diverse employees group. by Jovanmandic from Getty Images" class="wp-image-235405" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_12 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><ol class="ol1"> <li class="li1"><strong>Increased performance </strong>– Knowledge changes fast. Continuous learning keeps teams sharp, confident and capable. Companies that invest in professional development see better results, productivity and innovation.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>A stronger workforce </strong>– Employees no longer stay just for the pay cheque. They stay where they can grow. Ongoing training helps attract, retain and inspire top talent.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Fewer costly mistakes </strong>– Well-trained teams make fewer errors, saving time and money while improving safety, efficiency and overall quality.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Alignment with company goals</strong> – Prioritising learning shows that growth and adaptability matter. It strengthens trust, loyalty and shared values across generations.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Motivation and engagement </strong>– Learning fuels purpose and self-belief. When people feel challenged and supported, they’re more creative, energised and willing to take ownership.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Knowledge sharing</strong> – Open access to training breaks down silos, encourages empathy and helps teams understand each other’s challenges and goals.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>More innovation</strong> – A culture of learning naturally sparks curiosity and experimentation. When people feel empowered, new ideas follow.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Better processes</strong> – Skilled employees spend less time firefighting and more time improving systems, experiences and performance.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>A stronger brand </strong>– Investing in people builds reputation from the inside out. It positions your company as one that values growth, inclusion and excellence.</li> <p> </p> <li class="li1"><strong>Competitive edge</strong> – Training your people is cheaper and smarter than constantly hiring new ones. Cross-training builds flexibility, resilience and long-term success.</li> </ol></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_13 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p class="p1">With that, we have set out the benefits that ongoing training has for the individual as well as what scheduled, structured training days has for the company.</p> <p class="p1">A happier and more well-adjusted, confident employee and a company that has a staff contingent that is engaged, that shares knowledge freely amongst the different teams, that’s open to and welcomes innovation and that makes less errors.</p> <p class="p1">Of course, wellness days are good (don’t get us wrong), but ongoing training and development is better.</p> <p class="p1">It’s about investing in the assets of your company. Those assets are your employees and when it comes to investment, the employee/employer relationship is reciprocal. If employees feel that their company is investing in them, they will return that investment with excellent work and a positive culture. When employees have more than just access to training and knowledge, it will not only create a culture of learning that will help employees enjoy their work more, but it will also better equip them to manage unexpected events.</p> <p class="p1">So, from where we’re sitting – it’s an easy decision.</p> <p class="p2"><i>(Sources used and to whom we owe thanks – </i><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/tracybrower/2021/10/17/learning-is-a-sure-path-to-happiness-science-proves-it/?sh=8d93468768e3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1"><i>Forbes</i></span></a><i> and </i><a href="https://www.continu.com/blog/employee-training-benefits#:~:text=Discover%2520the%2520key%2520benefits%2520of,Training%2520From%2520the%2520Employee's%2520Perspective" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span class="s1"><i>Continu</i></span></a><i>). </i></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_8"> <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Revised-Corporate-Services-Brochure-2025.pdf" target="_blank"><span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="810" height="450" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/End-of-blog-post-CTA-image.jpg" alt="End of blog post CTA image (5)" title="End of blog post CTA image" class="wp-image-235400" /></span></a> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_divider et_pb_divider_0 et_pb_divider_position_bottom et_pb_space"><div class="et_pb_divider_internal"></div></div> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_8 et_pb_gutters1"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_1_4 et_pb_column_13 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_9"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1080" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Alicia-Koch-The-Legal-Belletrist.jpg" alt="" title="Alicia Koch - The Legal Belletrist" class="wp-image-1704" /></span> </div> </div><div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_3_4 et_pb_column_14 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_14 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner">About the Author, <strong><em>Alicia Koch, Founder of The Legal Belletrist.</em></strong> Alicia, an admitted attorney with over 10 years PQE, and now a legal writer and researcher, has established The Legal Belletrist to assist companies (in different sectors) to write well-researched articles that speak to each company’s core business, enabling growth and commercialism.</p> <p>Click here to visit <a href="https://legalwhizz.wixsite.com/thelegalbelletrist">The Legal Belletrist website</a>. <strong>Email: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">[email protected]</a> </strong></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/">Beyond Wellness Hours: Why Teams Need Real Training Time</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://bravingboundaries.com/beyond-wellness-hours-why-teams-need-real-training-time/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>My 10-day liver cleanse with Juice Revolution: A journey of self-compassion and transformation</title> <link>https://bravingboundaries.com/my-10-day-liver-cleanse/</link> <comments>https://bravingboundaries.com/my-10-day-liver-cleanse/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[friedaL2020]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 04 Oct 2024 05:39:49 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Change]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Mid-Life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[braving boundaries]]></category> <category><![CDATA[clean yourself from inside out]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cleanse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[detox]]></category> <category><![CDATA[gallbladder cleanse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[good health]]></category> <category><![CDATA[healthy eating]]></category> <category><![CDATA[healthy living]]></category> <category><![CDATA[juice revolution]]></category> <category><![CDATA[juicing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[kidney detox]]></category> <category><![CDATA[liver cleanse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[menopause]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mid-life]]></category> <category><![CDATA[middle age]]></category> <category><![CDATA[peri-menopause]]></category> <category><![CDATA[self-care]]></category> <category><![CDATA[self-compassion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[take care of yourself]]></category> <category><![CDATA[transformation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[your body your life]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://bravingboundaries.com/?p=6384</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/my-10-day-liver-cleanse/">My 10-day liver cleanse with Juice Revolution: A journey of self-compassion and transformation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="et_pb_section et_pb_section_1 et_section_regular" > <div class="et_pb_row et_pb_row_9"> <div class="et_pb_column et_pb_column_4_4 et_pb_column_15 et_pb_css_mix_blend_mode_passthrough et-last-child"> <div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_15 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h5><strong><span style="color: #be9727;"><em>WRITTEN BY FRIEDA LEVYCKY, FOUNDER OF <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/" style="color: #be9727; text-decoration: underline;">BRAVING BOUNDARIES</a></span> </em></span></strong></h5> <p><span style="color: #be9727;"></span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As I mentioned in last month’s newsletter, after finishing the Braving Change Challenge, I felt like I needed an additional boost to regain control of my energy and overall well-being. Despite increasing my exercise routine, I was still feeling sluggish, weighed down by hormonal swings (hello, peri-menopause!) and a bit disconnected from my body. I wanted to feel more in tune with myself and, let’s be honest, I was also eager to get back a bit more control over my figure. That’s when I decided to embark on a 10-day liver cleanse with </span><a href="https://juicerevolution.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Juice Revolution</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and I’m so glad I did it.</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_16 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h2><strong>The Cleanse Breakdown</strong></h2></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_17 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The 10-day cleanse was structured in a way that felt achievable (even though, I’ll admit, I had a few moments of doubt)! Here’s what the process looked like:</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_18 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>Days 1 to 3: Clean eating and liver stone softening</b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_19 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The first three days were all about clean eating coupled with regular consumption of apple juice to soften liver stones. This phase eased me into the cleanse, giving my body time to adjust to the lighter food load and preparing it for the more intense detox days ahead.</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_10"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Liver-detox-cleanse-1-1.png" alt="" title="Liver detox cleanse (1)" class="wp-image-6394" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_20 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>Days 4 to 6: Juicing </b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_21 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">These days were filled with delicious juices and soups provided by </span><a href="https://juicerevolution.co.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Juice Revolution</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and I have to say, they were surprisingly tasty! I didn’t feel deprived of food because the juices were rich in nutrients and had such a variety of flavours that kept things interesting. It was during this phase that I really started to notice a shift in how I felt; lighter, clearer and more in tune with my body. By day 5 though, I hit a bit of a wall. The headache I experienced was intense as the toxins were being released from my body. However, I knew this was part of the process and a necessary step in the detox journey.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Something that really kept me engaged during this phase were the educational videos that explained why we were eating certain foods and taking specific supplements. I’m one of those people who needs to understand the “</span><b>why</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">” behind what I’m doing, rather than just following directions because someone said so. It was fascinating to learn how each element played a role in supporting the cleanse and detoxification process. This knowledge made the whole experience feel more purposeful and kept me motivated.</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_22 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>Day 5 and Day 10: Colonics!</b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_23 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Now, let’s talk about colonics – something that I’ve been doing for nearly two decades. I know, I know, many of my friends are horrified at the mere mention of it, but let me tell you, colonics are a game-changer! Sure, the idea of flushing out your insides might not sound like a day at the spa, but it’s an </span><b>incredibly</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> effective way to support a cleanse. Trust me, we carry around a lot more </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">‘baggage’</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> than we realise, and colonics help you let go – both literally and figuratively! The results? Well, let’s just say it was a liberating experience and I left feeling </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">light as a feather</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (and perhaps a few pounds lighter too).</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you’ve ever wondered whether we’re all full of … well, you know, the answer is yes! </span><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img src="https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.0.3/72x72/1f60a.png" alt="😊" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> But I promise you, once you’ve done a colonic or two, you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_24 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>Day 6/7: Fasting</b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_25 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ah, the infamous fasting day. I never thought I’d drink neat Epsom salts (let alone a grapefruit and olive oil concoction) but I did – and it worked! To my surprise, the fasting day went way more smoothly than I had anticipated, even though my husband and friends were busy demolishing four pizzas and chicken wings right in front of me! That moment really tested my resolve, but I stayed dedicated to the process and it felt strangely empowering.</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_11"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Liver-detox-cleanse-3-1.png" alt="" title="Liver detox cleanse (3)" class="wp-image-6396" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_26 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>Days 8 to 10: Reintroducing whole foods</b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_27 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The final three days were about reintroducing whole foods and, interestingly, adding a kidney cleanse to the mix. It was wonderful to bring back solid food, but I was mindful of how my body was responding to every bite. I felt a newfound appreciation for nourishing my body with clean, wholesome ingredients. And the taste of the </span><a href="https://www.lifeshine.co.za/edible-eden-menu" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Edible Eden </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cottage Pie on Sunday night was just sublime!!</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_28 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>How I felt after the cleanse</b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_29 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So, let’s talk about the results. It’s safe to say that I feel completely transformed – both physically and mentally. The energy I was missing is back in full force and my brain feels clearer than it has in months. My skin is glowing, my figure has returned to where I want it to be and perhaps the most surprising benefit of all: I didn’t experience the usual hormonal swing as that time of the month approached. That, in itself, is a huge relief – not just for me, but for everyone around me!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">What’s more: my eyes are brighter, my skin feels smooth and I generally feel lighter and more at ease in my body. But beyond the physical changes, this cleanse gave me a much-needed reminder of the importance of </span><b>self-compassion</b><span style="font-weight: 400;">, especially as I navigate the realities of middle age.</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_image et_pb_image_12"> <span class="et_pb_image_wrap "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://bravingboundaries.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Liver-detox-cleanse-4-Medium.png" alt="" title="Liver detox cleanse (4) (Medium)" class="wp-image-6397" /></span> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_30 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>Learning self-compassion during middle age</b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_31 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As we age, our bodies change in ways we can’t always control and that can be tough to accept. I’ve spent most of my life with a good figure, so watching these changes unfold has been challenging for me – both physically and emotionally. There’s an underlying fear of losing control over something so central to how we perceive ourselves. But what this cleanse taught me is that, while we may not have control over everything, we do have a say in how we care for our bodies.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’m learning to be more compassionate with myself during this transition period. Rather than fighting against these changes, I’m focusing on what I can do to support my body: regular exercise, weight training and eating healthily (and learning what “</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">eating healthily</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">” really means). These are all things within my control and they make a huge difference in how I feel day-to-day.</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_32 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>Why I recommend a liver cleanse</b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_33 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’m not a doctor or a nutritionist, but from what I’ve learned from experts, taking care of your body from the inside out really does make a difference – especially as we go through the hormonal changes that come with middle age. A liver cleanse like this one isn’t just about losing weight or getting a ‘quick fix’ for feeling sluggish. It’s about resetting, giving your body a chance to detox and allowing it to function at its best. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This cleanse showed me that I can still feel good in my skin, no matter what age I am. It’s given me renewed energy, clearer skin and a sense of pride in what I was able to accomplish over those 10 days.</span></p></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_34 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><h3><b>A HUGE thank you</b></h3></div> </div><div class="et_pb_module et_pb_text et_pb_text_35 et_pb_text_align_left et_pb_bg_layout_light"> <div class="et_pb_text_inner"><p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I couldn’t have done this without the incredible guidance of </span><a href="https://juicerevolution.co.za/about-juice-revolution/#founder" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fiona Stander from Juice Revolution</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Her support and the delicious juices and soups she provided made the entire process so much easier and, dare I say it, enjoyable. I’m also grateful to my fellow participants. Sharing our experiences and challenges along the way kept me motivated and inspired. We laughed, supported each other and emerged from this journey feeling stronger.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To anyone considering a cleanse, I highly recommend it. Not just for the physical benefits but for the mental clarity and self-compassion that comes with it. So, here’s to embracing the changes that come our way and to finding ways to love and care for our bodies through every stage of our lives.</span></p></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The post <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com/my-10-day-liver-cleanse/">My 10-day liver cleanse with Juice Revolution: A journey of self-compassion and transformation</a> appeared first on <a href="https://bravingboundaries.com">Braving Boundaries</a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://bravingboundaries.com/my-10-day-liver-cleanse/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>4</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>