Looking for a fresh start in 2011? Consider these six simple ways to kick-start your body’s natural cleansing process:
1. Say “goodbye” to stress. Keep your body running smoothly by keeping stress in check. How? Make time for relaxing activities, taking special care to clear your mind at least once a day. Helpful activities include meditation, yoga, walking, listening to music and reading.
2. Eat your fruits and veggies. Loaded with healthy nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, fresh, organic fruits and veggies are an important part of a healthy diet. Fiber is especially vital to the natural cleansing process, as it can help move waste and toxins out of the body.
3. Avoid processed foods. Clean up your diet (and your body) by cutting out processed or refined foods, as they tend to be heavy in preservatives, sodium, unhealthy fats or added sugars. Instead, eat as much fresh, natural food as you can!
4. Supplement your diet. Need a little extra help? Consider supporting your cleansing routine with a vitamin or herbal supplement ““ antioxidants such as vitamin C and liver-supporting herbs such as milk thistle may be especially helpful.
5. Drink eight glasses of water. The easiest way to keep your system flowing normally is to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. A well-hydrated body means less water retention, smooth digestion, normal nutrient absorption and efficient waste elimination.
6. Sweat it out with exercise. An often neglected step in detoxifying your system, exercise is a great way to speed up the cleansing process. Exercise increases circulation of fluids throughout the body and accelerates respiration, helping to remove waste and bring oxygen to the body’s cells.