Detox

Detoxification is a natural process that our bodies undergo to remove toxins. The body naturally eliminates toxins through the kidneys, intestines, lungs, lymphatic system, and skin.

Although this process does occur naturally, due to the state of our environment, pesticides on our food, the chemicals that we’re exposed to every day via cosmetics, cleaning products, candles, and the list goes on, it is so beneficial to aid our bodies natural process. Some of us have a harder time with detoxing, wither genetically (MTHFR gene) or our detox systems are just sluggish and backed up. This can show up externally in the skin for example acne, rashes, excess skin, congestion etc.

Favourite ways to detox…

MOVEMENT

1. Our lymphatic systems, unlike the circulatory system (which naturally pumps on its own), has no way of circulating without our help. The lymphatic system is a vital component of detoxification as it cleanses our blood and removes waste. The best way to get your lymph flowing is through daily movement. Walking, rebounding, stretching, pilates, dancing, whatever you enjoy the most. Massage and osteo are also incredible tools as well as dry brushing.

    

2. HYDRATION

   Water quality is key. Investing in a Berkey water filter or spring water is so worth it. Adequate water intake is not only important for cell function but also flushing our whole systems. The filtering capabilities of our kidney system are totally dependant on water to function properly. The kidneys remove waste products from the blood, eliminate toxic substances in the urine, and receive water-soluble toxins from the liver for processing.

    

3. SLEEP

   Just like our bodies have a waste management system, our brains have a similar system called the glymphatic system. During deep, restful sleep our brains glymphatic system is 90% more efficient at clearing toxins than during the day.

    

4. BREATHWORK

   Around 70% of detoxification occurs when we breath. Our lungs help to pump the lymphatic system while oxygenating deep tissues, organs, and glands in the entire body. While different types of breath work are fun to explore, being mindful of taking big deep belly breaths throughout the days is most important.

    

5. DETOX BATHS

   Recipe:

   2 cups of epsom salt

   1 cup of baking soda

   1 tbsp borax

   A couple drops of lavender essential oil

   You’ll want to start slow as this bath is a potent detoxifier and work your way up to around 20-10 minutes. Make sure to rehydrate after and during. I like to bring a bottle of mineral water or coconut water in the tub with me.

    

6. SAUNA

   A sauna is an excellent way to flush out various toxins that collect in the fat cells of the body.Various studies have proven the effectiveness and efficiency of saunas when it comes to removing heavy metal toxins, PCBs, solvents, pharmaceuticals and organic chemicals from the body. I recommend infrared saunas as they have the ability to penetrate deep into the tissues and detoxify 7x more than traditional saunas. I recommend this sauna blanket from Higher Dose.

    

7. CASTOR OIL PACKS

   Castor oil has been used for centuries to heal a multitude of conditions. I use them over my whole abdomen or focused specifically on the liver.

   Here is a great resource and guide: Castor Oil Packs

    

8.  GUT SUPPORT

   Ensuring you are getting enough fibre in your diet helps with elimination of toxins through your colon. My favourite forms of fibre come from lots of fruits and veggies, lentils, whole grains and occasionally a fibre supplement like this one.

   Occasional coffee enemas and colonics are also a great addition to a detox protocol. Everything in moderation as too much of a good thing is not a good thing at all. We want our bodies systems to work smoothly without much intervention but occasionally these are a great tool.

    

9. CLEAN UP YOUR ENVIRONMENT

   Sub all cleaning products, self care products (body lotion, face oils, shampoos, body was, deodorant, lip balm, makeup, sunscreen, perfumes, nail polish) candles and any air freshener for natural alternatives. Of course its impossible and unrealistic to avoid all harmful chemicals at all times. But we do have the most control over what we purchase and use in our homes. We are so lucky that we have access to such amazing, clean products and brands now that making the switch is quite simple. The goal is not perfection and hyper-vigilance with everything we come in contact with, just an awareness and shifts that keep the toxic load on our bodies down to a manageable level.