Spring Detox: Realigning Your Body for the Coming Season

Contributor: Saffron & Sage
Photographer: Sarah Shreves

After spending the winter season predominantly indoors, it can be common for the body to feel sluggish as spring approaches. Although this is completely safe and normal, this tired feeling is not the way we want to start spring! We want to feel revitalized, awakened and confident, as well as healthy and happy. One way to fully refresh the body is through a detox. 

The word detox does not have to fill your mind with the fear of restrictive diets or liquid fasts. Instead, we can use natural remedies to revitalize us from the inside out. 

Hydrate 

Drinking water is always important, but try to amplify your water intake in order to eliminate the toxins from your system. Adding a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or the juice of a lemon to your water can get your organs going and move your dietary tract ahead. A healthy way to introduce this is to start your mornings with a glass or two as you get out of bed, and then continuing to drink as the day progresses. As a rule of thumb, aim for one half gallon to one full gallon per day, based on your body size, hydration needs and activity levels. 

Eat Clean

One of the best ways to take bad things out of your body is by putting good things in. A wonderful side effect of springtime is the rebirth of everything, and that means plenty of delicious plants and herbs. To clear out your body, stock your kitchen with things like dark greens (kale or arugula will work) and prepare your dinners with ingredients like dandelion greens, asparagus, and fresh squeezed lemons. These seasonal foods are delicious, nutritious, and will enhance your detoxification process. For some light reading, check out Eat Pretty by Jolene Hart, CHC, AADP. The book offers a full breakdown of the nutritional benefits of seasonal foods and provides yummy recipes in which to utilize them. 

 

Get Your Sweat On

It is common knowledge that your body releases toxins through the natural act of sweating. We can use the wonderful weather of springtime to our detoxing advantage! Take yourself outside to participate in a workout session, becoming one with nature as you sweat out the toxins plaguing your system. If you have the opportunity, take some time for yourself and sit in a sauna, too. The time sweating it out should leave you feeling invigorated and full of energy. Don’t forget to hydrate plenty both before and after to revitalize yourself.