Winter Mini-Detox

When my friend Emily texted me asking me about doing a detox, I knew it was a sign that it was time for me to do one too. A detox is a period of time set aside to be extra good to our bodies and minds by committing to eliminating habits, thoughts, and foods that keep you stuck, inflamed, and toxic. I created the mini-detox below specifically for the winter season because our bodies need different things at different times of the year. If you are looking to experience weight loss, clear skin, better digestion, improved mental focus, balanced moods, and more energy consider joining us for a few days! Do it at any point this season when you feel your body and mind could use a re-boot!

Prepare: Decide the length of time you are going to commit to the detox (3-7 days). Write it down and pick your start date. Get a journal or notebook. Get your groceries and supplies.

Tools for the detox: All tools can be purchased at my online store, where you can be sure you are getting high quality products. Free shipping over $35!

-Tongue Scraper: Tongue scraping clears toxins, bacteria, and dead cells from the tongue to prevent bad breath, enhances the sense of taste, promotes overall oral and digestive health and can gently stimulates the internal organs. Bonus...some say it might make you a better kisser!

-Chlorella: Chlorella contains many nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and omega-3 fats. Exact quantities may differ among brands. Chlorella can help the body detox by binding to heavy metals and other toxins. Taking chlorella supplements may help lower blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity.

-Apple Cider Vinegar: Helps balance blood sugar, improve digestion, balance pH, and more.

-Organic Coconut Oil: For oil pulling

-Epsom Salt: For an epsom salt bath

Foods to include: Water, herbal tea, lemon, berries, lean organic protein, fresh vegetables, vegetable broth, quinoa, flax seeds, fresh herbs like parsley, ginger, rosemary, and sage.

Foods to completely avoid: Sugar of all types, artificial sweeteners, citrus (except lemon), alcohol, yeast, soy, eggs, dairy, flour, gluten, corn, all meat aside from organic chicken breast or fish, nightshade veggies (tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers), caffeine and other stimulants, peanuts, refined oils and trans fats, processed food, food additives, fast food, junk food, and all packaged food that is commercially prepared.

The detox: 

1. Upon waking, oil pull, then brush your teeth and tongue scrape. Then drink a large glass of hot water with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (add some ginger for extra warmth and digestive benefits).

2. Grab your journal and write down any dreams you can remember. Journal for 5-10 minutes about the following questions: How do I feel this morning? Are there any thoughts that aren't serving me? What thoughts would serve me better? What are three things I am grateful for today?

3. Meditate 5-10 minutes. 

4. Post-it on your mirror: "I relax and trust in life" or "I am enough" or "I choose peace" or "I'm awesome" or anything else that feels peaceful and good to you.

5. Exercise: Stretch, do an online video, yoga, or go for a walk 15-30 minutes.

6. Drink filtered warm water and/or herbal tea throughout the day. 

7. Meals: Eat slowly and chew well. Lunch can be steamed or lightly sautéed veggies with 1/2 c brown rice, quinoa, or millet. Snacks can be 1/2 c of berries, freshly pressed green juice, or detox broth. Dinner might be 4-6 oz of lean organic protein cooked or beans made with with olive oil and lemon juice and herbs, veggies, 1/2 c brown rice or quinoa. Chew 5-6 chlorella tabs with each meal.

8. After dinner: 1 Tbsp of apple cider vinegar in 7 oz warm water. 

9. At least once during your detox take an epsom salt bath.

10. Go to sleep by 11pm if possible. Before bed give thanks for your day, write down any reflections, read 5 pages of something inspirational, and intend to have a wonderful night's rest.

At the end of your detox: Acknowledge yourself for participating in the process, even if you fell off at any point, be proud and give praise. 

Hope you feel amazing after your detox! Detoxes are always easier to do with friends, so please share this post with any and all you think could benefit!