Our bodies themselves are perhaps the most incredible detoxification
systems that exist. I once saw a holistic doctor, and he told me
that, as long as our bodies are functioning properly, we could “eat a
bowl full of parasites and be totally fine.” And it’s true.
The thing is, though, when we overload our own bodies with toxins –
through things like unclean, processed foods; chemical-laden beauty
products; alcohol; and especially negative thoughts – our systems don’t
function as efficiently as they truly should. To help get ourselves back
on track, it’s about eating clean, avoiding chemicals, getting enough
sleep, moving our bodies, and avoiding negativity. But, since I know you
already know all of that, here are four more things you can do to help
move those toxins through your body so that they can be removed for
good.
Yoga
In addition to helping detoxify the mind, yoga is a beautiful
practice for cleansing the body. The pushing, pulling, stretching
movements of every part of your body – in combination with deep,
rhythmic yogic breathing – cleanses the body by helping along the
removal process of waste products throughout. One of the very best yoga
poses for detoxification? Downward dog.
Abhyanga
This is an ayurvedic massage performed by vigorously stroking the
skin in upward motions toward the heart, using a special oil blend that
corresponds to your primary dosha. According to my ayurvedic
practitioner, Abhyanga “moves obstruction in the lymphatic and
circulatory systems, which enhances the health of the skin, organs, and
endocrine system.” Daily Abhyanga, usually performed on one’s own self,
is one of the main practices in Ayurveda. If you aren’t familiar with
it, though, I would suggest your first experience to be a treatment
performed by a well-versed ayurvedic practitioner. It’s incredible, and
you will not regret it.
Oil pulling
If you’re not yet aware, oil pulling is an ancient Indian practice
performed by swishing a high quality oil (such as organic unrefined
coconut oil) in the mouth for about 20 minutes, aiming to pull
toxins from the body. Studies show that oil pulling has incredible
benefits for oral health – like whitening teeth and preventing disease –
but many believe that this practice can help remove toxins from the
entire body, bringing overall health to a maximum. Just make sure you’re
up to date with your dental visits before beginning. When asked a dentist who explained to me that the presence of plaque
will prevent the oil from penetrating the gums, greatly taking away from
the effectiveness of the practice.
Dry brushing
This practice is similar to Abhyanga in that it stimulates the
lymphatic and circulatory systems, helping to speed up the removal of
metabolic waste from the body. It also offers a ton of other benefits,
from unclogging the pores and exfoliating the skin, reducing the
appearance of cellulite and possibly even improving digestion. All you
need is a good body brush with natural bristles. Before you bathe, brush
your dry skin in large, upward stroking motions, always going towards
the heart – this encourages lymph flow in the proper direction. Once
you’ve finished, take your shower, and emerge with smooth skin and a
soothed mind.
What other ways to you help your body to detoxify itself? Please share!
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