e. Lymphatic System ---------------- The lymphatic system is used to bring nourishment to cells and to remove wastes. The lymph nodes, located in the lymph vessels, break down toxins. The breakdown of toxins is especially important during infections and other acute illnesses. Deep breathing and movement help keep the lymph moving through the lymph vessels. Lymph cleanses are often recommended during or after acute illnesses or after an extended period of inactivity. i. Simple Cleansing Ideas ---------------------- 1. Regular exercise (e.g., walking) is an excellant way to keep the lymphatic system from stagnating. However, if exercise cannot be performed due to your condition (e.g., CFIDS), then refer to the "Yoga" chapter for ideas (including breathing exercises). 2. Deep breathing exercises should be performed to help keep the lymphatic system moving (e.g., pranayama/ yogic breathing, Hendricks breathwork, holotropic breathwork). 3. A whole body massage is a great way to revive a stagnant lymphatic system. If you can afford it, definately give it a try! 4. Lymphatic Cleansing Tea (Dr. Hobbs): 1/2 part Red root 1 part Red clover tops 1/2 part Echinacea root 1 part Lemon peel 1/4 part Ginger root Simmer 2 ounces (1 part) of herbs in 10 ounces (5 parts) of spring water for 20 minutes. Strain and drink 1/2 cup twice per day. ii. Norman Walker Detoxification ---------------------------- This is a cleanse that was used by early 20th century American healers with great success. It is an excellant cleanse to perform in the Spring if you are not very weak. Cleanse Summary --------------- The cleanse is basically a three-day fresh vegetable and juice fast with the addition of a saline solution to draw toxic matter (i.e., excess mucus) into the intestine. In cases of constipation, a colonic or an herbal laxative (i.e., Arise & Shine's Atomic Blockbuster) may be used to keep the toxins from being reabsorbed. Additional activities include daily skin brushing (see Skin Cleanse above). Optional add-ons to the cleanse include daily yoga and/or meditation, abdominal massage, breathing exercises to loosen the diaphram area, plenty of support, nuturing/relaxation, and enjoyment. Detailed instructions for performing the cleanse can be found in the following books: School of Natural Healing by John R. Christopher Biworld, Provo, Utah, c1976 Raw Vegetable Juices by Norman Walker Norwalk Press Rather than rehashing what Norman Walker says in his book, I will add my own ideas and suggestions to his excellant program: 1. Fasting ------- This fast should not be performed by persons who are weak or who have any kind of food addiction or who tend to eat for emotional reasons. For more information on fasting correctly, please read books by Paavo Airola such as "Are You Confused?" 2. Pre-Fast -------- Three days before the cleanse, begin reducing the amount of heavy foods in your diet (meat, grains, legumes) and move gradually towards more fruits, cooked vegetables, broths, a small amount of easily digestible grain products. 3. Post-Fast --------- It is absolutely crucial not to immediately begin eating a normal diet after the fast. It should take your three days to gradually build up to your normal diet. The first day after the fast should consist of only fruit, well-cooked vegetables, broths, juices, and herbal teas. Begin adding rice cream and sea vegetables (i.e., wakame, kelp) on the second day after the fast. Do not add soy products (i.e., tempeh) or legumes until the third day after the fast and then only eat a very small portion. 4. Hunger ------ During the cleanse, you will be getting nutrients from the juices, broths, and teas. A 3-day fast is *not* starvation. Thousands of people, including myself, have safely performed fasts of over two weeks. You may experience times of hunger, especially during the first two days. The following ideas may help you through those times: a. Be certain to get sufficient amounts of liquids, including juices, teas, broths, and water. b. H.A.L.T. -- It is important to avoid getting too Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired. Remedy these situations *long before* they cause you to want to reach for the food. c. Spend time doing relaxing, enjoyable activities. Rebuilding & Strengthening -------------------------- 1. Regular moderate exercise if the condition allows, otherwise see "Yoga" chapter for other ideas. 2. Deep Breathing -- See "Yoga" chapter and Hendricks Breathing Exercises in "Emotional Healing" chapter. 3. A massage from time to time.