It’s officially SPRING!! As the weather warms and we (hopefully) see more sunshine, I wanted to chat about the importance of adapting your wellness routine with the changing season.
Although this past Winter was a relatively mild one, it is still important to help the body transition into warmer, more detoxification-friendly months. Here are my recommendations to shake off the cobwebs of Winter and facilitate optimal wellness this Spring:
1) Introduce a gentle cleanse
I typically dislike the word “cleanse” or “detox” because it usually implies significant dietary restrictions and system irritation in order to facilitate excretion. In order to properly detoxify the system, the organs of elimination (Liver, Kidneys, Colon and Skin) need to be working optimally (consult your ND to manage this!). Here are some safe, gentle “cleanse” practices:
- Drink one large glass of warm water with lemon per day to help the Liver eliminate toxins.
- Eliminate alcohol and caffeine to reduce the detoxification burden on the Liver and Kidneys.
- Add 30 mins of exercise per day to your routine, to help transport toxins from the cells into the bloodstream for processing.
- Add foods into your diet that stimulate detoxification as they support the Liver, Kidneys and Colon. Foods like lemon, ginger, black pepper and turmeric are fantastic!
2) Cold showers or plunges
The practice of cold showering or taking cold plunges supports detoxification by stimulating blood flow and toxin processing by the Liver and Kidneys. It takes some getting used to, but start with 1 minute of hot exposure, followed by 20-30 seconds of cold exposure, and repeat this cycle 3-4 times. Try to work your way up to ending with 2 minutes of cold (and always end on a ‘cold’ cycle, as it's a natural stimulant for energy!).
3) Dry Brushing
This ancient practice is so powerful in helping with detoxification, because it encourages lymphatic drainage. It is important to choose the right brush for the job (there are dry brushes of varying strengths and textures), and to always brush toward your groin and armpits for optimal drainage. This practice can be repeated 3-4x per week. Additional benefits include reduced appearance of cellulite, varicose veins, skin discolouration and fine lines. I also dry brush my face every morning to help the skin cells turn over and rejuvenate for a fresher complexion!
4) Add a “sponge” to your water
A “sponge” is an element that is capable of binding toxins in the blood. These commonly include Vitamin C, as well as chlorella, spirulina, algae and kelp. Adding these to your morning routine (either in powder or capsule form) can boost the natural filtration system in your body and reduce the presence of free radicals!
Wishing you all a healthy, rejuvenating Spring!
Be well,
Dr. Kate Hunter, ND