We continue to receive wonderful feedback for our Holistic Detox program, the first of which has just concluded 🙂
B.T.K.
What was your goal when you started this program?
My goal was to learn to live without gluten and sugar, and to support these needs with alternative recipes. Getting rid of evening snacks was especially important for me. Thankfully, I can say I’ve learned to zip up my food after dinner (sometimes even after 7 pm in the summer).
How did the program help you?
This type of eating was very different from my usual habits. Not knowing is limiting, but having boiled legumes and seeds at home was very important. Sprouted mung beans, in particular, became invaluable for me. They add flavor to everything. Even if I added them, it would taste good, that’s how good they are 🙂 Managing gluten-free breakfast was the most challenging part, but I also had very delicious breakfasts without bread. I mostly eliminated snacks from the menu because I was full. And I was filled with truly delicious food, not bland and tasteless. From now on, I’ll boil quinoa, sprout mung beans, and make chia seed mixes every week. Changing my refrigerator habits was my biggest gain.
What physical and behavioral changes have you noticed in yourself as the program ends?
First of all, I lost 2 kg, which felt great. My energy increased, I was able to do challenging workouts that I couldn’t do before, and I was also chatting with those around me. My performance improved.
Who would you recommend this program to?
I would recommend this program to anyone who intends to take responsibility for themselves and their lives because just getting through the preparation phase is enough. The shopping list and preparation suggestions you provided during this phase were very helpful. Everything went smoothly throughout the week. You can’t bear to waste the preparation you’ve done; it motivated me to think, “I’ve put in so much effort, I should continue.” Apparently, people who cook their own food have the least amount of food waste in the world. The effort was important, and this requires being ready to take responsibility for doing something for yourself.
Anything else you’d like to add…
I love to eat very, very much. I’m a food lover. This actually makes it difficult for me to stay healthy. However, healthy eating is also delicious. I also did this: I thought, “Well, if I can’t resist and really crave it, I’ll eat a slice of bread.” I put the bread on the table again, ate my meal from the menu, and checked if I needed it; no. I said, “I’m full, and it was delicious anyway,” and put it back in the bag. There was only one time, when my mother was hospitalized for two days, I had to eat toast there, but the next day I continued where I left off.
I’m a psychologist who has been working as a psychotherapist for 20 years. I understand the value of the mind-body relationship. This process has been very beneficial for me. The results reinforced my knowledge.
And most importantly, the program, the email flow, everything was clearly prepared with great care; the fact that I could feel your effort really connected me to the program. You never withdrew your support. Your interest and dedication to this path even reached me digitally. I can’t help but express my thanks and appreciation for that. What you’re doing is valuable, yes, but the fact that you know its value is even more valuable. May your path be clear. I wish you health, peace, and happiness, and that you prosper by expanding your work.
N.D.
What was your goal when you started this program?
My goal was to overcome emotional hunger. To be able to give up eating because I saw food and wanted it, rather than because I was actually hungry.
How did the program help you?
Actually, I generally knew what to do, both from the internet and from my own knowledge, but having a list made the process easier. Especially since I wasn’t going hungry, I was able to overcome emotional hunger more easily. I absolutely loved cheese and yogurt and thought I couldn’t get through the day without them, but I saw that I could.
What physical and behavioral changes did you see in yourself at the end of the program?
I especially had bloating and gas problems, and those are completely gone. I felt extremely full after meals, but there was absolutely no indigestion or bloating that bothered me.
Who would you recommend this program to?
I would recommend it to those who suffer from emotional hunger, not because they are actually hungry, and also to those who, like me, have bloating problems after eating.
First of all, I would like to thank Ms. Sema for always making us feel her support throughout this process, and for her efforts. This was my first time taking an online program like this, and honestly, I had some concerns about how it would go, but thanks to the emails we received every day, I felt as if I were actually in a session with Ms. Sema; I felt her presence with me, and this motivated me a lot. Thank you again for everything.
Ö.Ö.
What was your goal when you started this program?
I came across this program while browsing Instagram. (I’ve been following Sema Hanım since 2017.) During a period when I was experiencing food cravings, feeling uneasy, and unable to achieve the results I wanted, I suddenly saw Sema Hanım’s post and thought, “This must mean something, I think it’s a sign,” and wanted to participate. I think Sema Hanım has a magical quality, believe me, I’m not exaggerating. Suddenly, without any difficulty, I started enjoying the food I ate, following the list she provided without any problems, and on top of that, feeling lighter, both mentally and physically. I’ve been following her for years; I’ve never tried everything she says, but I’ve truly understood how effective they are, how they are the product of a subtle intelligence, and most importantly, how the recipes, created through countless trials, are presented to us with such finesse that they would never let us down when I try them myself. My admiration for her has only increased. While sharing these things with my son, I always found myself saying, “Eating healthy isn’t boring at all, is it, son?”
How did the program help you?
The program felt like a beautiful path leading me to the discipline I wanted to adopt, to the self I wanted to see. It felt like a path that lightened things up without forcing, without tiring, and without stress.
What physical and behavioral changes did you notice in yourself at the end of the program?
Peace, lightness, self-respect, and joy.
To whom would you recommend this program?
To everyone, everyone…
Anything else you’d like to add…
I haven’t met Sema Hanım and Püren Hanım personally, but believe me, even from behind the screen, they have such beautiful energy that it reaches you. They are so wonderful that everyone they touch continues on their path with light. With love…
G.C.
What was your goal when you started this program?
My goal was to lose weight, but I realized there’s something deeper than that, something between me and food. Sema Hanım explained to us beautifully that weight loss shouldn’t be the goal.
How did the program help you?
I understood what I ate, why I ate it, and what kind of emotional connection I had with it. Forbidden foods always seemed appealing to me; I lived with the mentality of “one time won’t hurt.” Now I research and learn about “how harmful it is to my body, what’s in it?” It’s like I’m relearning life; my perspective on life has changed.
What physical and behavioral changes have you noticed in yourself since the program ended?
Physically, I feel lighter, and behaviorally, I’ve become a more positive and constructive person.
To whom would you recommend this program?
Anyone can do and implement this program.
Anything else you’d like to add…
Thank you. I don’t want to stop the program at all. I couldn’t eat avocados and beets before, but now I eat them with great pleasure. Thank you for being here.
N.U.
What was your goal when you started this program?
My goal when I started this program was to lose a little weight, that’s all.
How did the program help you?
This program wasn’t just a weight loss program. The meaning of the word “detox” as I knew it changed. It’s a complete cleansing, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I did it very easily. Without ever feeling hungry. I enjoyed reading the emails and information you sent every day, eagerly waiting to see what would come tomorrow. I never felt alone.
What physical and behavioral changes did you see in yourself at the end of the program?
Physically, it made a big difference; I lost 4 kilos in two weeks. I feel so light, like I could fly. My fear of going hungry is gone. I didn’t have the hunger and scarcity mindset I had in previous diets. I learned how and when to eat food. I learned to eat healthy, clean-ingredient foods at the right time. Most importantly, I started to incorporate what I learned into my life and organize my kitchen accordingly.
To whom would you recommend this program?
I would recommend such a wonderful program to everyone. I tell everyone who has seen the change in me. This isn’t just a two-week program; I recommend it to anyone looking for a sustainable source of information to integrate into their whole life.
Anything else you’d like to add…
Honestly, I didn’t expect this much. I’ve been following you for a very long time; your warmth, sincere and heartfelt sharing brought me here. My journey, which began with my search for breathwork, continued with my MBSR training, and then my transition to detox… Thank goodness. Thank you so much, Sema Hanım. Best regards…
E.A.
What was your goal when you started this program?
To support the renewal and rejuvenation of my body, to reduce or even stop my nighttime eating if possible, and to understand more deeply what a “healthy meal” means.
How did the program help you?
I felt full! I understood and felt what true satiety means. And as you said, perhaps that’s why my nighttime eating stopped. I’ve had a long-standing digestive problem, and it’s now much better. A few episodes ago, you told me, “What you eat will be your cure,” and I’m starting to see that it’s really true. Onions, garlic, and even sprouted legumes were foods I couldn’t eat before, but I tried them with you here, and I’ve seen that none of them are the end of the world for me anymore! My energy has increased. Another surprising thing I noticed this morning is the change in my premenstrual cravings. I used to have sweet cravings a week before my period, but this morning I realized there are only 4 days left and I haven’t even thought about sweets. I’ve been trying to eat sugar-free, gluten-free, and lactose-free for a long time, but I never imagined I could experience such a change with such simple and incredibly delicious meals. Receiving those enthusiastic, positive emails from you every morning has increased my motivation because it makes me feel like I’m part of a beautiful, big family, that I’m not alone. Knowing that what and when I should eat each day is all healthy has been incredibly helpful. In short, you’ve contributed so much, we’re so glad you’re here, we’re so glad you exist. Thank you so much!
What physical and behavioral changes did you notice in yourself as the program ended?
I accidentally realized days later that my premenstrual cravings didn’t occur this time. My energy increased. I lost weight (hopefully many more will too 🙂 I’m not sure if it’s from MBSR or Holistic Detox, but I feel calmer now. I can live “slowly,” at least when possible.
Who would you recommend this program to?
Everyone!
S.G.
What was your goal when you started this program?
I had previously followed a sugar-free diet for a while and noticed I was getting lighter, but then the pandemic, stress, etc., intervened and I lost my routine. For a while, I was tracking my daily hunger pangs with publications I was reading and following, and I realized I wasn’t eating the right things and that I was starving like a wolf in the evenings (it felt like my cells weren’t getting enough to eat). I couldn’t do such a program alone. My goal was to learn how to make it sustainable, and I thought that if I had a program, I could get back on track. And during the program, I had a few days or two of skipping, but generally I stuck to the program and never felt hungry, so I achieved my goal. And last night when I said, “What am I going to eat tomorrow?” I got up and prepared myself a nice breakfast salad the night before. Thank you!
How did the program help you?
Everything in the program was organized and explained, showing me what to eat and when, and the preparations weren’t too difficult (for example, on days I couldn’t make carrot balls, I ate dried apricots and almonds with green tea), so it was very clear. It was good that the menus came weekly because I didn’t encounter any surprises the next day. Planning ahead is always good in a busy work schedule. In the first few days, I just felt like I would be hungry and made my salad portions very large, but your advice to “Eat as much as you want” reassured me.
What physical and behavioral changes did you notice in yourself as the program ended?
I felt lighter when the program ended, I lost 3-3.5 kilos. I’m thinking about what alternatives I can eat on my upcoming vacation. Eating is often a psychological issue. Lately, with all the cafes and pastry shops that have opened, I used to feel like I’d be excluded if I didn’t eat that huge cake with my friend. The hunger pangs in the evening and the exhaustion I felt on the way home from work are gone. Six or seven years ago, when I was very hungry (because I was eating sugary foods), I would get all flustered. While it’s not as bad as it used to be, it still happened during periods of poor eating, but it hasn’t happened in the last two weeks 🙂 I recently read something that said, “People who are impatient and irritable when hungry are those who haven’t reached emotional maturity.” I think the same applies to those who don’t feel full enough during the day 🙂
Who would you recommend this program to?
I would recommend it to everyone, but it’s something that only those who want to can do. It ultimately depends on the individual. Just because “broccoli” is on the list doesn’t mean you need to look for broccoli in July 🙂 Of course, there’s nothing you can do about that. I think people shouldn’t be afraid of lists and menus, and if they take the time to read it, it’s a wonderful program. It’s a program that doesn’t make “big promises” at the beginning, and that’s why it makes you feel good 🙂
Anything else you’d like to add…
Thank you so much for gently, without commands or strict rules, disciplining me and bringing me back to myself. For giving immediate and adequate answers to every question. I just wish access to “good food” wasn’t so expensive all the time…
M.A.
What was your goal when you started this program?
My goal was to feel lighter, better, and more energetic. And also to lose some weight.
How did the program help you?
First of all, I learned what healthy eating is. I saw that you can lose weight without starving yourself. After that, I learned how to balance things out when I overindulge a little.
What physical and behavioral changes did you see in yourself at the end of the program?
I feel lighter. My stomach isn’t bloated. I lost 2 kilos. I went down 2 cm. I’m not attacking food anymore 🙂
Who would you recommend this program to?
Anyone who aims for healthy eating.
Anything else you’d like to add…
This was my first time participating in one of your programs, but I’ve been following you for a long time. I really liked your advice and recipes, so it wasn’t hard to decide. I always thought you were sincere. Seeing your energy in the live broadcasts, I realized I wasn’t wrong. Thank you very much. I hope we’ll meet again on another occasion. Best regards…
S.N.K.
What was your goal when you started this program?
My aim was to restructure my eating habits for a healthy lifestyle and prepare for it. I had also started a diet 20 days before starting this program. My insulin resistance levels were found to be high.
How did the program help you?
I’m a doctor, and after retiring, I started gaining weight. I gained 20 kilos in 13 years. I went on diets occasionally, but then I gained it back. This time, in the diet I’ve been following for the last month, I lost some weight by consuming fewer carbohydrates and sugars, but my main goal was to create a healthy diet while losing weight. When your detox program came to my attention, I realized I had been reading your previous articles but didn’t fully understand them, and that my eating habits and cooking should be like yours. This program didn’t strain me because my body was already used to the pace of dieting. In fact, by combining the detox with your menus, and without overeating, I also lost weight without experiencing hypoglycemia. I also learned that your recipes suited my taste and were very easy to make once I had the ingredients.
What physical and behavioral changes did you notice in yourself at the end of the program?
As I wrote above, I both lost weight and realized that I didn’t crave the things others were eating because I had delicious meals of my own.
To whom would you recommend this program?
Actually, I can recommend it to everyone because what we’re doing isn’t very difficult, but in programs like this, individuals need to be mentally prepared first. Otherwise, even if they follow the program, unless they change their kitchen and themselves, it’s very likely they’ll revert to their old lives.
Anything else you’d like to add…
First of all, I’m very happy to be doing this program with you. I feel more energetic and healthy. Those around me say the same thing. During this process, I also acquired the food ingredients I will use in my kitchen, and I will make my bread, cookies, and other meals with them. This time, rather than dieting, my primary goal will be to create my own kitchen and lose weight by reducing the amount of food I eat.
E.E.
What was your goal when you started this program?
My goal wasn’t to lose weight; I felt I needed a physical and, more importantly, a mental detox after the holidays. I had previously participated in your “Nutrition Shines” program and was very happy even with what I could follow. My aim isn’t to lose weight, but simply to develop healthy eating habits, which is possible with you. I’m 55 years old, not overweight, but visceral fat is a serious problem, and I needed to solve it. I benefited a lot.
How did the program help you?
As I said, I could cut out sugar, but I couldn’t eliminate unnecessary carbohydrates like bread and rice, and also late-night eating… and then I would get upset. Before the program, I had been used to intermittent fasting until noon for a month, eating two main meals a day (lunch and dinner), which made it very easy for me to follow your program. Your program had frequent meals, but the smoothies were especially delicious, and I was very happy thinking about how my body benefited from drinking them.
What physical and behavioral changes have you noticed in yourself as the program ends?
First of all, I realized that it’s possible to feel full with healthy and natural foods. I really like your recipes; trying new things in the kitchen has taken me on a journey of discovery. As I made them and tasted them, I gained courage, thinking to myself, “It’s so simple!” My shopping habits have changed; I’ve especially started looking for healthy and fresh fruits and vegetables. Then I enjoyed taking the time to prepare them for weekday use. Most importantly: I never smoked until I was 55, I didn’t use antidepressants during difficult times, and I don’t like sugary, carbonated drinks because I consider them empty calories. Instead, I prefer to use my right to consume those calories with a nice dessert. I thought that if I could manage to treat my body this way and stay away from these things, I could take another step and age healthily by also eating healthily. I saw that I could make this thought a lifestyle with you. 🙂
To whom would you recommend this program?
To everyone… To anyone who likes to be organized and wants to do good for their body…
Anything you’d like to add…
Your style of communication, your sincerity, and your approach have been an inspiration to me and my family. You know how fulfilling that is in a person’s life; you have every right to feel very happy because you are truly helping and touching our lives. Thank you so much 🙂 Best regards…
M.M.
What was your goal when you started this program?
For the last 3-4 years, I had been eating healthily, giving up sugar, focusing on protein and vegetables, and regulating my fruit intake. However, for the last 6 months, I had strayed from my eating habits for various reasons. My goal when starting the program was to return to my chosen routine, to see what I was doing wrong, what I had started doing wrong, and to detoxify.
How did the program help you?
With the program, I fully achieved my goal and even gained wonderful benefits. First of all, thanks to Ms. Sema, whom I admire and follow, I saw/confirmed how correct my approach to healthy eating was, which created incredible motivation for me to return to my old habits. I was delighted to see that my shopping list didn’t contain anything that could be described as ‘quirky,’ and that a significant portion of it was already in my kitchen. I started eating less but with better quality and more satisfying meals again, and I realized why I’d been constantly feeling hungry for a while. During this period when I felt unmotivated to cook, someone providing a practical, followable, and healthy list made it so much easier to return to my old habits. I learned why things like artichokes, ginger, and smoothies are necessary and adopted using them in my kitchen. I’d never sprouted lentils before, and I found it so easy and delicious, thank you so much 🙂 I even started using my tongue scraper that’s been sitting in my drawer for years 🙂 So, for me, it was exactly what I wanted; an inspiring and motivating experience.
What physical and behavioral changes have you noticed in yourself as the program ends?
I started eating less but with better quality food. I rediscovered the inspiration I’d been missing in my kitchen for a while, and I’m enjoying cooking again. I wake up feeling more refreshed and clear-headed. My constipation problem is solved, and I no longer have bloating/water retention.
Who would you recommend this program to?
I would recommend the program not only to those who might consider their eating habits ‘unhealthy,’ but also to anyone who questions and wants to change their lifestyle and eating habits, or who has been feeling a lack of motivation and inspiration for a while, who wants to reassess and reaffirm themselves and their habits, and who wants to enrich their kitchen with creative and practical ideas. The recipes are easy and practical, and Sema Hanım supports you with a grounded and very realistic approach. She clearly explains why dieting isn’t just about losing weight, but about changing your lifestyle.
Anything else you’d like to add…
You’re so sweet. I only follow you from afar; I don’t know your life story, etc., and of course, I don’t need to, but in both live broadcasts, your motivation, passion, and joy really touched me. You were made for this job, and only someone who loves their work so much can give you that feeling. May your path be clear. With love,
S.K.
I joined this program on the recommendation of a friend who participated in your sugar-free diet program. As someone who struggled to lose 17 kilos in a year and then quickly gained 15 kilos back in 6 months, I avoid diets but am unhappy with my weight. I started thinking your program would help me change my eating habits. And you have been far more helpful than I expected. As a cheese lover, I’ve discovered I can have breakfast without cheese. I’m currently 2.5 kg gone. As someone addicted to pastries and cheese, I never included fruit in my daily life, but I’ve noticed my need for bread has decreased with your menus. I really liked your salad recipes; they’ve become a great meal alternative for me.
F.G.
What was your goal when you started this program?
I was going through a period where I was neglecting myself and was unhealthy. I constantly thought, “I have to start somewhere,” but I felt I needed a more holistic cleanse, not just a diet or anything like that. The program’s start date coincided perfectly with this period, so I saw it as a sign.
How did the program help you?
I followed it almost completely for 13 days. I couldn’t follow the list for the last two days because I was out of town. Knowing what to eat helped me a lot. I really needed detailed recipes telling me what to eat at each meal. It was great. At the same time, I learned from Ms. Sema what I was eating, why I was eating it, and the reasons why certain foods were combined. Otherwise, I couldn’t have followed this program immediately after a period where I was “eating whatever came to mind.”
What physical and behavioral changes did you see in yourself at the end of the program?
I didn’t hesitate; I prepared different foods for the family and for myself. I had never made a smoothie for myself before. I’ll do it from now on (I bought a Defya blender 🙂)
I’ve never stayed away from dairy, sugar, and gluten for so long. Cheese, yogurt, milk, buttermilk, etc. are products I eat a lot of because I think they’re healthy. Staying away from them has been good for me. Sugar-free wasn’t difficult either, and sugar is my biggest weakness.
My water intake is always very low. During the program, I managed to get close to two liters. My fluid intake increased with smoothies, soups, etc. I lost 3 kilos. If I could have exercised, I would have lost even more. My edema is gone. I felt more energetic and lighter. I felt like I was taking control of myself, and the increased awareness of my eating and drinking made me happy. My face looked smaller. My skin became brighter and fuller.
Who would you recommend this program to?
-Those stuck in their routine,
-Those who want to make a fresh start,
-Those tired of diets, dieticians, and cliché detox lists,
-Those fed up with the agenda, the state of affairs, the burden of the world, and the news (Those who only think about themselves, Making my list and thinking about my next meal has been so helpful in this sense… I recommend it.
Anything you’d like to add…
I want to say thank you. For your positive energy and all the information…
Q.S.
What was your goal when you started this program?
To return to healthy eating and get rid of the bloating caused by gluten in my body, especially in my abdominal area.
How did the program help you?
I think the program has been very good for me, I’m grateful for the motivation you gave me to eat healthily again. Also, the flattening of my belly made me very happy.
What physical and behavioral changes have you seen in yourself by the end of the program?
I couldn’t weigh myself before starting the program, but thanks to the slimming in my abdominal area, I’ve started to fit into my pants/shorts a size smaller again.
Who would you recommend this program to?
Actually, I would recommend it to everyone, but primarily to those who intend to eat healthily but are hesitant about difficult diets. Because it’s possible to observe a significant difference in the body with just healthy foods.
Anything you’d like to add…
I never thought smoothies could be so delicious. Thank you also for breaking my prejudice against green smoothies.
B.K.
I’ve participated in all your previous programs. I’m currently in Yin Yoga. I wholeheartedly applaud you for Yin Yoga; you’re amazing. It should be called the Yin Yoga Sema Therapy course, and you didn’t disappoint me again. Every detail is meticulously thought out, and the approach is gentle, compassionate, and heartfelt. Well done!
I do the eliminations myself every six months, but I definitely come with you once a year because you never disappoint me and always come up with wonderful new information. Thanks to you, I’m motivated to continue and stay on track.
What was your goal when you started this program?
My goal was to learn exactly how to do a detox. And of course, how could I miss out on something new with you? 🙂
How has the program helped you?
I feel much more relaxed and slimmer during the eliminations, but I also wanted to lose fat here. Even though I had some innocent slip-ups, I saw a 2-3 cm reduction in my waist, hips, and legs. In one of your live broadcasts, you said, “Don’t be afraid to go to bed hungry, nothing will happen. Try it, see how your body feels.” That phrase, “DON’T BE AFRAID TO GO TO BED HUNGER,” really affected me. Because I apparently had this fear. Now I love going to bed hungry and waking up feeling so light in the morning. One of my fears has been eliminated.
What physical and behavioral changes have you noticed in yourself as the program ends?
You started the change in me years ago, so I can say that you taught me balanced detox here.
To whom would you recommend this program?
To everyone!
Anything else you’d like to add…
Your detox program was fantastic, the menus were plentiful, and this 2-week program would give me more than a month of detoxification.
I’m the only one living in Sweden, and even though there are many Turkish markets and vegetable sections, I couldn’t find fresh green beans. But I found and ate what you emphasized so much. Instead of green beans, I made zucchini or ate a green salad.
Finally, dear Sema Hanım, I want to say something and express my gratitude. I learned to cook with you over the years. No joke, I fell in love with the kitchen, it became my therapy, and I became independent from going out. How wonderful it is to be able to make practical, delicious, and healthy meals in a short time! I think all newlyweds should follow you and add another wonderful new beginning to their lives by participating in one of your programs! They would debunk the saying, “You’ll gain weight after marriage anyway.” I’m calling out to all newlyweds from here. Thank you for everything, and thank you in advance for everything I will learn from you in the future!
