Today, let’s talk about 3 easy ways to detox on a daily basis. These practices are really easy to incorporate into your daily routine and they will not break the bank (very important too!). Why is it important to include some form of detox practice into your daily routine, you ask? Well, because it not only assists your body in its own daily detoxification process, but it also enhances the removal of toxins and waste from your body. This further ensures that your immune system stays strong, that you age more gracefully and, as a bonus, you will have more energy. Awesome, right? Now, let’s take a closer look at your new favorite detox tools.
Another thing I forgot to mention about these detox practices is that most of them can be done in the morning, before you get out of the house (if you wish to, of course). So without further ado, let me invite you into my morning routine…
The first thing I do after I get out of bed and get to the sink is scrape my tongue! It is a small step I have gotten used to doing ever since my Ayurveda class in Nutrition school. It is an excellent way to get rid of undigested ama, which has resurfaced while you were asleep. So, first thing in the morning for me, is scraping my tongue, rinse my mouth and get ready for detox practice number 1:
OIL PULLING
Image: by Meal Makeover Mums via Flickr
I am sure many of you are familiar with this other Ancient Ayurvedic technique as it has gained popularity in the past few years on the Web. But for those of you still unfamiliar with it, let me tell you a little more about it.
HOW? Simple. Take 1 Tbsp of vegetable oil (preferably organic) and swish it around your mouth for 20 minutes. Yes, you read that right, 20 minutes. You want to make sure that you give the oil the time to really “pull” out all of the nasty bacteria and impurities that have come back to the surface and have been “camping” in your mouth while you were asleep (gross I know). You will see that as you pull, the consistency of the oil will change. And once you spit it back out in the trash (NOT in your sink as it may clog your bathroom plumbing overtime) , it will by then be all foamy and white. That is normal. After that, simply rinse your mouth with warm water and epsom salt or simply warm water and proceed with brushing your teeth as normal or eating breakfast, if you brush your teeth after you eat.
By then, I am showered and dressed up (this is my way of making the 20 minutes go by quickly). Feel free to read, journal or prepare your breakfast as you oil pull in the morning to make good use of your time.
Health Benefits: Oil pulling is a great way to help your body remove any toxins and bacteria present in the mouth. It also helps to strengthen your gums over time and whitens your teeth. A win-win for me. Oh and my favorite oils to use for that are extra virgin coconut oil and sesame oil as they are very effective and their taste is the least bothersome to me. Moreover, coconut is also naturally anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal.
So now, it is time to hit the kitchen to start making breakfast. This leads us to detox practice number 2:
WARM WATER & LEMON/ACV
Image: by DMA International via Deliciously Vibrant
Many of you will have heard of this one as well. But let me remind you of all the benefits of drinking, first thing in the morning some warm water with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or 1 tbsp of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV).
Health Benefits: The first health benefit of this detox practice is that it gently wakes up your digestive system. Warm water is important so as to not damage the Vitamin C content in the lemon (don’t use boiling HOT water). And do not use cold water either, because it makes your body work to bring it back to room temperature. Next, lemon contains some constituents that help the liver in its detoxification pathways, it prepares your digestive system for the rest of the day, helps clear the skin and the vitamin C content is a great way to boost your immune system. If you use ACV instead, it contains some healthy bacteria (the mother) that help maintain a healthy balance in your gut flora, all further helping your digestion, and immune system. So again, a win-win situation here and very cheap!
Finally, my third detox practice actually happened before I took my shower. It is one of my favorite things to do, right before I shower (whether it is in the morning or at night). Drum rolls, please…. Here is your detox practice number 3:
DRY SKIN BRUSHING
Image: by DMA International via Deliciously Vibrant
Dry skin brushing is a very gentle way to massage your body, wake up and stimulate your lymphatic system as well.
The HOW? Get a natural bristle brush that is specifically made for dry skin brushing. Many health food stores carry them now. If not, you can find one: here. Start from the bottom of your feet and working your way up your body in circular motions towards your heart. This will activate your lymphatic system, which is the main system getting rid of any toxic waste and it is important to support your immune system’s function as well.
The great thing about dry skin brushing is that not only does it stimulate your lymphatic system and immune system but it also promotes the removal of dead skin cells. Think of it as a gentle exfoliating of your skin and a nice massage. Your skin will feel like soft baby skin after a few weeks of using this method. Of course, make sure you stay well hydrated from the inside (i.e. drink water) and that you moisturize your skin properly after each shower.
And there you have it, folks. 3 easy ways to detox on a daily basis, without breaking the bank! Of course, method 1 & 3 can also be done at night before going to bed. But I really enjoy doing them in the morning.
What about you? What are your favourite detoxifying practices? …
Stay healthy & vibrant,
Sarah.
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