Is Fasting the Answer to Reversing Ageing?

Leaving behind the overwhelming hustle and bustle of London Paddington, I embarked on a two-hour journey to Devon—a much-needed escape. The sight of lush green fields, trees gently swaying in the wind, and the melodious chorus of birds welcomed me as I drove along the scenic country roads for 40 minutes to reach my final destination. As I arrived at Newhouse Farm Cottages, the picturesque location that would host the Karuna Detox retreat, a glimmer of optimism flooded through me. This would be my sanctuary for the next 7 days—a home of pure bliss encompassing 30 acres of private grounds, where I would join 14 other remarkable individuals, each with their own unique concerns, all of us poised to embark on this extraordinary journey together.

I settled into my cozy cottage, scattered my skincare products about, and adorned the room with a bouquet of fresh flowers before attending the orientation. With a mix of apprehension and excitement, the fasting period commenced. Armed with supplements, water, and a colonic kit, I pondered how I would sustain myself without food for the next few days—though, truth be told, I didn't have much choice in the matter. Each day felt like an eternity, but I constantly reminded myself of my purpose. Why was I here? Who did I aspire to become? How could I reclaim my power? Extended fasting has been an integral part of human life since time immemorial, and although we have made significant advancements in many areas (not always for the better), it seems we have often overlooked and overshadowed ancient approaches to health. Yet, hidden within these ancient practices lie numerous gems that still hold relevance today. Fasting has been scientifically proven to offer various benefits, including weight loss, reduced inflammation, improved blood sugar control, and some even argue it may protect against certain cancers and neurodegenerative disorders.

Karuna Detox Retreats was founded by Shoshana, a healing practitioner with over 20 years of experience leading individuals and groups on their journey to wellness. She possesses a lifelong dedication to human growth, embodied transformation, and healing personal and collective trauma. I connected deeply with Shoshana both before and during the retreat, and she provided an invaluable space for me to express my happiness, fears, worries, joys, and concerns. As a woman and a mother, our connection resonated on a profound level, enhancing my experience throughout this transformative week.

Fast-forward to day six, where I found myself having consumed over 14 litres of water, shedding buckets of sweat during saunas and country walks, exhausting my supply of effective supplements, and undergoing 10 colonics. At this point, my positivity and faith were fully restored, and it was time to break the fast. Not only had I shed 10 pounds, but my skin radiated with a glow reminiscent of a sun-kissed Caribbean island. My gut felt alive and rejuvenated, ready to welcome wholesome nourishment. However, the benefits extended beyond the physical realm. To my pleasant surprise, the claims made by Karuna Detox about nurturing the mind, body, and soul were wholly accurate. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude and readiness to honour and respect my body as I returned home.

Now, the million-dollar question remains: Does fasting truly reverse the ageing process? It all depends on how one defines ageing. The numbers I saw on the scales following the retreat hadn't graced my eyes in nearly three years. Having lost faith in my body's ability to shed anything, I realised the scale held a significant role—especially when one works tirelessly in the gym, counts calories, and faces pressure from doctors to lose weight. Today, I possess a renewed lease on life that makes me feel youthful, worthy, sexy, and capable. Prior to the retreat, my body felt older than its years; I experienced sluggishness and lack of motivation, presuming it was the norm for someone in their early thirties with children. Now, I eagerly anticipate life, and fasting has provided the catalyst I needed to keep the inner child alive within me.

For more information about Karuna Detox retreats and to embark on your own transformative journey, visit their website at www.karunadetox.com.

Looking to optimise your health? Our Longevity Accelerator retreat combines pioneering science with restorative spa treatments to promote a healthier lifestyle long after your stay. Book your experience with us here.