How To: Detox
It was around this time last year when I nonchalantly told my parents I was about to do a detox. They were kind of confused. Next thing I know, I got a concerned call from my aunt: “Are you going on a diet?”
Cleansing may be the latest rage in alternative medicine, but it’s still somewhat misunderstood. It’s not a weight-loss program, but a way of naturally cleaning out the system. Think about all the unhealthy chemicals that we accumulate in our bodies, particularly from everyday stress and eating unhealthy. Often times, fatigue and headaches are the side effects of poor lifestyle choices and routines. Detoxing is a way of ending bad habits and giving the body some much-needed R&R.
After completing that five-day program at a detox center, I’m a lifelong believer in the concept. I felt lighter and more energetic than ever before. My detox experience was amazing, but I have also heard about some really bad ones. Mostly, when people try to “DIY” and detox at home with disastrous results.
Doing the program in a center with staff and other clients was the best option, because it removed me from my regular routine. I was forced to relax and focus. But that’s not always possible, in terms of time and also cost. It is possible to cleanse on your own, but the proper steps need to be taken. Here are my recommendations for how to properly detox at home:
• Keep it simple. A detox doesn’t have to be a total interruption of your lifestyle. It could just be making a change for a short period of time. You could try doing a couple weeks without coffee or only eating fresh fruits and vegetables. Set goals for yourself every now and then - it’s all about kicking bad habits over time.
• Clean out the cupboards. Before doing a cleanse at home, remove all the temptation from your life. That means going through the kitchen and getting rid of the junk. That way, you won’t be able to cheat. Even afterwards, you’ll be more inclined to continue with this new-found routine.
• Don’t starve. One of the biggest misconceptions about detoxing is that you have to go hungry. But that’s simply not the case. Going hungry is only going to create added stress, which is ultimately counterproductive from the goal at hand. Stay away from juice cleanses that will leave you unsatisfied and with high sugar levels. Eat fresh fruits for breakfast, vegetables for lunch and take snacks in between. Soups and purées are very filling, great for evening meals.
• Pick an easy time at work. As the toxins leave your body, it can leave you feeling a little cranky and tired at times. Pick a few days to detox when there are no big projects or long hours at the office. Take it easy and schedule a few yoga classes to help yourself stay relaxed.
• Stay hydrated. Dehydration can make the whole experience a lot more unpleasant, and even lead to headaches and fatigue. Drink lots of water, and keep some sea salt close by for an extra boost of energy.
The post How To: Detox appeared first on tentree.