Always stop watering at least 3 days prior to removing from the flower room. Let sit for 2-3 days of darkness then proceed to start trimming.
I have not witnessed the plant eating itself. That sounds pretty intense. Enjoy your smoke.
Trim plant while still in container. Hang whole plant or large section of plant in a room approx. 65-70F and 40-60RH until most stems snap. Approx. 7-10 days. Cut buds from stems and place in large container with re-sealable lid. Open the container every 24hrs for 30mins for the first week...