Cleansing Techniques

During your January Cleasnse as well as dietary measures there are many ways of supporting the body in its cleansing process. Here are a few suggestions:

Massage

Massage gets the lymph and circulation moving. Its through these systems that waste products and toxins are transported to the liver and kidneys for elimination from the body. To make an aromatic massage oil combine a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil such as almond or sesame oil.  Examples of beneficial oils to use are grapefruit, lavender, lemon, rose and rosemary.

Heat

Heat has long been used to induce sweating and cleansing. The Native Americans used sweat lodges and the Scandinavians are big fans of saunas and steam baths. Steam baths are good for clearing the sinuses and respiratory tract as well as opening the pores of the skin. Saunas are good for breaking a sweat. Following the heat treatment with a cold shower is recommended to bring the body temperature down to normal. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Dry Skin Brushing

Dry skin brushing removes dead skin cells and aids the circulation of the lymph and blood. Use a natural bristle brush to brush up the feet and legs with firm strokes. Brush the abdomen in a clockwise direction to aid bowel flow. Brush from the hands to the armpits and down the neck and back. The scalp can be brushed but avoid brushing the face. Follow this with a shower and enjoy the glow!

Detox bath

Add a cup of Dead Sea salts or Himalayan salt crystals to a warm bath, lie back and relax.

Exercise

Regular exercise aids circulation, metabolism, bowel health and elimination of toxins. However, during a cleanse it is important not to over do it as this will deplete the body at a time when it needs nutrients and energy for the cleaning process.

Breathing

Ayurveda, the Indian system of health, uses breathing techniques, called pranayama, to balance, calm and cleanse. Prana means vital force and yama means control. In pranayama the vital force of the body is increased. Certain breathing techniques can enhance the elimination of toxins.