When looking at the overview of the program we can see that the practices stack.

That means that as you go through the program you can build up a more robust routine of self care and that is OK.

We can also see that the botanical herbs shift.

This means that when appropriate you’re using Stage 1 herbs, and then when it’s time to enter Stage 2 you add the Stage 2 herbs in as well.

Before moving to Stage 3 it’s time to phase out the Stage 1 herbs and make sure your progress is holding.

This way you can give yourself support through the stages with a layering effect, and you’re not taking a ton of stuff every day. Just enough to get the job done.

Stack your practices. Shift your herbs.

*Also we have a couple special formulas. Microgard and the Tibetan Foot Soaks can be used safely at any stage as needed.

How to Take Herbal Teas

For the teabag formulas, the best way to prepare them is to make a big pot of filtered water in the morning, add the herbs, and boil for the appropriate amount of time. Anywhere from 10-20 minutes depending on the formula.

Then have a mug to start the day, and pour the rest into a thermos (or a cool pump pot like one of our MVSP members) and drink warm throughout the day.

It’s best not to drink your herbs cold. Warm liquids are better absorbed and don’t shock your digestive system.

It is also best to drink today’s herbs today, and not try to save them for the next day.

Freshness matters as the volatile active oils can decrease the longer they’re sitting in a cup.

It’s also best to begin each day with fresh teabags and not try to reuse yesterday’s teabags. It will be weaker, and there’s also the possibility that bacteria, molds, etc got into the wet teabag over night.

How to use your Herbal Foot Soaks

Place 2-3 teabags in a basin or bucket. Add at least a few inches of boiling water and let sit 5-10 minutes so the volatile and aromatic ingredients can be extracted from the teabags.

Then, either wait until the water is at a safe temperature (115 F or lower) or add more cool water to bring it down faster. Soak feet for 10-20 minutes. The entire time the water should be as hot as you can comfortably tolerate.

If you have any diabetes, neuropathy, or difficulty sensing temperature make sure you use a thermometer to prevent injury. Above 115F the water is unsafe to soak in.

To keep the water warm while soaking, add more hot water.

When finished, dry feet completely and cover. Do not walk around barefoot on a cold floor, especially right after soaking.

You may feel itchiness as macrophage activity increases in the legs.

You may feel old injuries start to get sore. Both of these are normal as your body is encouraged to heal. Continue daily soaks and it should pass within 2-3 days.

Do not soak your feet if you have open wounds on the skin. Cracked heels are ok, as long as there's no bleeding.

Consult a healthcare practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant, nursing, have an active infection/cold, or cancer.

*Download, print and complete the Progress Graphs and Tracking Sheets daily.

Progress Graphs

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 4

Tracking Sheets

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 4