Spring Cleansing

In many parts of the world, people honor the age-old tradition of cleansing with the seasons. Spring is the perfect time to refresh and renew you physical body as well. There are a few simple things to consider before doing any cleanse or fast:

• Is my colon and digestive tract functioning well and ready to take on the additional task of cleansing? During any cleanse protocol you literally give your body permission to let go of all the old or unnecessary stored minerals, toxins, and cholesterol that it has been holding on to. Every organ gets its chance to dump waste.

•  Is my liver health good? The liver processes hormones, nutrients, minerals, medications and chemicals allowing the body to determine which things it needs to use and which things need to be stored or released. Flushing creates extra work for the liver.

• Are my kidneys ready? Cleansing requires good water consumption (at least 64 ounces of spring or distilled water). Fluid waste is processed in the kidney and an overload of flushing can create kidney stress. For example, if your body has been storing calcium, this calcium may be released and an abundance of calcium passing through the kidneys could result in kidney stones.

• Am I mentally and emotionally prepared? You should check your calendar to make sure your commitments will allow you the freedom to follow your program. A sudden necessary business luncheon could put a quick end to your cleansing protocol. Make sure you have the support of those around you.

• Will I have adequate time to rest during cleansing, after all the body will be working extra hard at this time and fatigue is common for the first few days.

• Check all medications, if any, and plan how to take them appropriately.

Choosing your cleanse or fast is the next project, unless you already do them and know which ones work for you. There are several types to consider:

• Religious fasting. Many elders and practitioners in the church do this. The process can vary from fasting with only water for several days, to fasting with light meals once a day. Many fast one day every week for religious reasons. Those experienced in fasting can do longer fasts, but it is always wise with longer fasts to have support from others well versed in the process.

• Regular fasting is done with water and minor nutrients.

• Detox cleansing supports the body more because some supplements and/or shakes/drinks are used to deliver minimal nutrition to the body. Some protocols are food based.

Preparing for your cleanse is next:

• Give your body a mini diet, reducing sugar, artificial sweeteners, gluten and alcohol in advance of starting your program - this will give your body a head start and minimize the harsh effects of the first few days of your cleansing. It will also help to reduce your cravings during the first few days of a cleanse

• Reduce your caffeine intake greatly before starting the cleanse – to help eliminate the withdrawal symptoms such as headache and fatigue

• Drink more water for a week before starting the cleanse

• Depending on the type of cleanse – consider lining up tools like dry brushing your skin, massage, relaxations techniques like meditation

Joan Goodman, CTN, MH
1950 Eldridge Parkway, Suite #5101
Houston, TX  77077

281-493-9473 

All articles are copyrighted by Joan Goodman. They may only be reprinted with her express permission.

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