Beach Metro Community News

It is that time of year again when many of us are contemplating our spring cleaning routine – where to start, what to do and how to do it? Just as we would clean our homes, it is also a good idea to cleanse our bodies as well. Similarly to cleaning out the kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, living and dining room in our homes, we need to cleanse our liver, kidneys, colon and other organs involved with detoxification in our bodies.

Detoxification is the process by which we remove toxins (any substances that have a harmful effect on our bodies) from our system. Everyday, we are increasingly being exposed to toxins – through food, water, and the chemicals in our environment – not to mention the toxins that are naturally created daily within our bodies. Even negative thoughts, emotions, electromagnetic energy, and stress can also be considered a form of “toxins”.

Why is detoxification necessary?

An overload of toxins from the environment can weaken the immune system. It can also contribute to many symptoms or illnesses such as: fatigue, acne, allergies, mood changes, headaches, nervous system problems, and even cancer. This is why we must ensure that our detoxification mechanisms are working efficiently and that we eliminate these toxins on a regular basis.

When is the best time to detoxify?

The optimal time to embark on a detoxification program is mid-spring (although fall can also be a good time). This is the time of the year when nature renews itself and it is important for us to harmonize ourselves with the seasonal cycles.

Who needs detoxification?

Because we are all exposed to external and internal toxins every day, we all need to “detoxify” at least once or twice a year. Of course, it is optimal to do little things every day to help with this process, such as drinking adequate water, exercising, eating healthy, managing stress, and consciously decreasing our exposure to toxins. We all know what happens when we have not cleaned out our closet or basement in years! The garbage accumulates and it becomes increasingly difficult to get rid of the clutter. The same concept applies to our bodies. If you have never detoxified before or only do it once every few years, you have to be careful that you do not overwhelm yourself all at once. There are many different levels of detoxification (ranging from making simple changes in one’s diet to the most extreme – fasting) and one must determine which is the most appropriate detoxification program for them. Choosing the wrong type of cleansing program, can actually do more harm than good. So, it is a good idea to undertake any detoxification program under the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner. As well, people who are: on prescription medications, underweight, diabetic, hypothyroid, hypoglycemic, recovering from surgery, are low in vitality or someone who has cancer should also consult a qualified health care professional before undergoing any detoxification process.

Benefits of detoxification

Because you are clearing out unwanted toxins from your body, there are many additional benefits of detoxification. These include: improved cognitive function, reduced stress on the immune system, increased vitality, reduced blood pressure and cholesterol and an increased capacity for the body to heal.

What are ways in which one can detoxify?

Just as you would use different materials and methods to clean the different areas of your home, there are many different ways one can cleanse the body of toxins. Dietary changes and stress management techniques are very helpful. Exercising, deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and using an infrared sauna can also release many toxins. For more involved detoxification programs, the use of nutritional supplements, herbs, and homeopathic remedies can also be utilized. The essential thing to remember is that you need to maintain and cleanse your body, because the better you take care of your body and health, the better you will feel – all year round!

Note: This article is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace proper diagnosis and treatment by a qualified healthcare professional.