Spring is finally here! In honor of the season of reawakening, it’s time for a little “spring cleaning” for your body and mind. Follow these five simple ways to start fresh this spring!
1. Rinse & Refresh. The arrival of spring is unfortunately accompanied by a host of outdoor allergens that can slow you down. A daily nasal rinse (typically done with a saline solution and administered using a pot or spray) is not only refreshing, but can wash away pollens, harmful pollutants, icky mucus and other irritants to support normal nasal health.
2. Cut out Chemicals. Stop toxins from affecting your system by avoiding them in the first place! From packaged snacks to pleasant-smelling soaps, chemicals are found in abundance in many everyday products. Start fresh by replacing processed meals with raw, whole and natural foods, especially fruits and veggies. When it comes to personal care, look for products that are free of chemical additives and artificial ingredients.
3. Detox. This step may be beneficial for those who have been consuming chemical-laden food or using conventional personal care products. Popular natural detox and cleansing methods include consuming teas with liver-supporting herbal compounds such as dandelion and burdock root, or taking supplements such as milk thistle extract, which may support liver function and the body’s natural detoxification process.
4. Achieve Balance. The key to a clean mind and body is balance. Work hard, but play hard too. Get plenty of sleep (7-8 hours per night), as well as plenty of exercise. Eat a balanced diet with a large variety of healthy foods and drink at least 8 glasses of water per day. Set aside time each day to engage in activities that you enjoy.
5. De-Stress Your Life. Traffic jams, screaming kids, angry bosses””the list goes on. The daily burdens of life can throw your whole body into a tizzy. Make time for relaxing activities, including meditation, yoga, walking, reading and listening to music.