Abstaining from alcohol, cigarettes and recreational drugs might be difficult for some.

Others find that the complete absence of temptation or opportunity makes it a lot easier.

Consuming any of these during the retreat only detracts from your experience of your retreat.

It is recomended that you abstain in the days leading up to the retreat if you can to give you body chance to be 'cleaner' during the retreat itself.

Bingeing just before the retreat is probably the least beneficial thing to do.