Spring is right for seasonal cleanse and detoxing

(April 13, 2013) Every change of season is a good time to clean things up – our homes, our bodies, time to clear the clutter in our minds.  Time for spring cleaning the house, the garage, our yards (I even cleaned up my office to the shock of many) and a great time to get our bodies prepared for something new in our training program.  It’s also important to clear the clutter in our mind.  Spring is a perfect opportunity to go on a yoga and meditation retreat, or to take a girls weekend, or a few days off of work to spend with your family, just focusing on the things you want to do together.

I personally don’t recommend doing any harsh cleansing or complete fasting unless recommended by your medical provider.  I like to do natural cleanses, which include cleaning up the foods in your diet and assisting your body in the removal of toxins.  That means cutting out greasy meats, sugar, alcohol, white flour, saturated fats and processed foods while adding in whole, clean, nourishing foods such as fresh vegetables and fiber rich meals.  There are different ways you can implement cleansing like this according to what your personal goals and taste preferences are.  There are also other things that you can implement in your daily routine to help your body with the cleansing process.

Ways to help your body detoxify:

Yoga: Yoga not only helps the body relax and reduce the cortisol levels in your body, many yoga asanas (poses) help the body detoxify.  Twisting poses help the digestive system and many poses stimulate the lymphatic system.

Epsom salt baths: Mixing Epsom salt with a natural oil such as coconut oil or olive oil makes a great, natural body scrub.  Epsom salt in hot water helps to draw out toxins, help the body to relax. (Epsom salt can also be used as a gentle laxative when ingested)

Massage therapy: Massage also helps you to relax, releases endorphins into your body, stimulates and drains the lymphatic system and releases lactic acid built up in your muscles.

Dry brushing your skin and hair: Dry brushing your skin and hair also helps stimulate the lymphatic system as well as removing toxins and waste from the surface of the body.  This also stimulates natural healing. Natural bristle brushes are best and always brush toward your heart.

Apple cider vinegar: helps with digestion and is said to flush fat from the body.

Water, water, water!: Drinking enough water each day is probably the best way to help your body remove toxins, stay hydrated and refresh the entire body.

Barley powder: barley powder is a great addition to your diet when doing a cleanse.  It is one of the most nutritionally dense substances out there including nine amino acids.  It is known to help with skin ailments as well from the inside out.  Its high fiber content helps the body to eliminate waste.

Lunch & Learn April 24

On Wednesday April 24, there will be a member appreciation Lunch & Learn, “Spring detox for your Family,” at 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the JER Chilton YMCA.  A healthy lunch will be provided.  Healthy potluck items are welcome.  The speaker will be Diane Porter, a certified detox specialist.  Caring Transitions will provide water, fruit and information on decluttering your home, whether you are downsizing tor just want to free up some energy and some space.  The presentation is free will be open to the public with pre-registration at our Welcome Center (get a guest pass if you are not a member).

I’m always happy to talk to people about their individual needs and find ways that we can help you reach your goals and find resources.  Please e-mail me if there is something I can help you with.

Liz Jones is the Membership & Wellness Director at Rockwall Family YMCA, located at 1210 N Goliad in Rockwall, TX.  She is a writer, certified yoga instructor, personal trainer and wellness coach.  She holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership and Strategic Management, with a graduate certificate in Ethics and Leadership.  Her undergraduate studies included communication, business, writing, art, fitness, and dance.

She is trained in Reiki, Guided Imagery, and various healing methods. She has also trained in Shotokan karate and other forms of martial arts and self-defense.  Her background includes non-profit management and working with various at-risk populations, women’s empowerment workshops, and mentoring programs. 

Liz Jones can be reached at: ejones@ymcadallas.org or 972-772-9622.

  de-toxing your body, Liz Jones, natural cleanses, seasonal cleanse, toxins, YMCA