Is Winter A Good Time To Detox?
Sometimes our bodies crave a detox. After a season of rich foods and overindulging, it can feel good to clear out toxins and digestive build up. But is winter really the best time for a cleanse?
One of the best ways to embrace natural living is to recognize and flow with the seasons. With the return of warmer temperatures and fresh greens, spring is a naturally good time to cleanse the body. Fall is another transition season where we are preparing our bodies for winter wellness. Even summer, with its abundance of fresh fruit, makes for great juices and smoothies that can cleanse the systems of the body. But what kind of cleansing might be best for winter?
We should approach winter as a time of rest, replenishment, and nourishment. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find gentle ways to help support your body’s natural detoxification and elimination systems in the coldest months of the year. Let's take a look at four simple ways to start a detox!
Drink herbal teas
Staying hydrated is very important in cold, dry months and hot tea is a great way to keep the body warm. Try a spicy chai, healing ginger, or maybe a turmeric elixir to speed up your circulation.
Eat nutrient-dense winter foods
Root vegetables are great for supporting the liver (a key player in detoxification) but they also fit right in to a natural winter diet. Healthy fats, bone broths, and warming spices like cinnamon, pepper, cayenne, and ginger are also perfect for winter detox.
Add bitter herbs
The addition of bitters such as dandelion, artichoke, arugula, and chamomile can improve digestion and speed up transit time, providing a helpful boost to your elimination system.
Sweat it out
Even though the temperatures may not be high, your detox systems can still benefit from the elimination of toxins through sweat. Stay active through walking or yoga and consider a hot sauna to really kick the sweating up a notch.
An effective cleanse doesn't have to be harsh, so this winter, set your mind to these gentle ways to replenish and support your body.