My first spiritual discipline, though I wouldn't have called it so at that time: an elimination diet. Akin to fasting. A purification process. For two months (mid-July-mid-Sept 2012) I did not consume any:

1. Gluten
2. Dairy 
3. Alcohol 
4. Shellfish
5. Nuts
6. Corn
7. Egg
8. Citrus
9. Fish
10. Soy

The entire process took over a year, reincorporating each item individually to isolate any potential reactions. It was interesting, helpful, and strangely fun. A project, and I love projects. (Not to be confused with fads, which I don't love!) Another step in my whatever-it-takes-to-get-me-out-of-this-place process that I'm trying to chronicle here.

Emotionally, it was exciting to take on a challenge - one that I asked for, one that was specifically designed for my benefit - and stick with it. Since my previous efforts seemed to continually backfire, it felt so good to get positive, immediate results: better digestion, bigger repertoire of food, better understanding of health. I felt cleaner, lighter, brighter. My confidence increased. I convinced myself that the perimeter of my face had a healthy glow, even if my rosacea persisted.

Most importantly, it was an action that led to a better mindset. It shifted my daily focus from frustrations and failures to health and little victories!

Happily, I was at this very show last Saturday! Thanks, B :)