How to Detox Your Body Naturally
During the stay-at-home order, we all had to make significant adjustments to our lifestyle. Between being unable to go to the gym and limiting our trips to the grocery, take-out may have become the new normal and our exercise routines likely took a back seat. Understandably, self-isolation has been a hindrance to our health. If you’re struggling with stress eating or simply want to hit your body’s reset button, a natural detox may be just what you’re looking for.
What is a detox and how does it work?
For some people, the term “detox” brings a feeling of skepticism. But it’s not nearly as intimidating as you may think. Detoxification has been practiced for decades as a way to cleanse the body. While your body can naturally filter blood, process nutrients, and remove toxins on its own through the liver (among other organs), a detox can help support this process. Here is a list of a few of the health benefits you may experience during and after a detox:
- Increased energy and less fatigue
- A stronger immune system
- Clearer skin and healthier hair
- More balanced hormones (ie. less frequent mood swings, headaches, etc.)
- Improved digestion
How do I detox naturally?
A common misconception about detoxification is that you have to drink green juice all day to reap the health benefits. Like anything else, a detox can be taken to the extreme by fasting, juicing, food restricting and consuming an excessive amount of supplements. But don’t let these deter you from trying. Here are six simple and natural ways to detox the body:
- Eliminate food and beverages that irritate the gut. This includes caffeine, gluten, alcohol, saturated fats, and processed sugar. The first few days may be difficult, but after a week, your body will start to adapt. Try removing these products from your diet for 21-30 days.
- Introduce more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet that are high in antioxidants, like broccoli, kale, grapefruit, avocados, and cauliflower. This can be an exciting opportunity to get creative in the kitchen and try new recipes throughout the week.
- Drink a glass of warm water with fresh lemon as soon as you wake up in the morning and continue to stay hydrated throughout the day. If you normally start your day with coffee, opt for green tea instead. This will contribute to clearer skin, better digestion, and stronger joints.
- Move your body. As the weather gets warmer, there will be plenty of ways to get fit outdoors. Whether it’s yoga in the park or a jog around your neighborhood, sweating is a great way to detox the lymphatic system.
- As long as you’re removing the toxins from your body, you might as well work on cleansing your mind as well. Yoga, meditation, or journaling are great tools to help you focus on your mental health, remove negative thought patterns, and restore your mind.
- Soak in the tub for 15 minutes before bed. For added relaxation, drop in a 1/2 cup of baking soda, a few tablespoons of ground ginger, 1 cup of Epsom salt, and 5-10 drops of essential oil.
Above all else, it’s important to practice detoxification safely. If you have questions, please reach out to your holistic health practitioner or medical physician. Please contact us to learn more about bringing balance and vitality back to your life.
