Currently in week 6 of #lockdown and I am privileged to be with my husband where we share the same spaces. Whilst working from home we’ve been able to structure our day around each other most importantly schedule in downtime (Married in lockdown post coming soon) - whether it be talking a walk at lunchtime or evening making sure that there is enough points throughout the day to release our thoughts from the ongoing pandemic reality. I’m sure at first during the few weeks of lockdown we all found comfort in food & drink (a bit too much of it) and one too many anxious eating decisions that my belly has had enough of! I’ve found that some of my go-to tactics of self-soothing actually end up adding to the stress in my life and taking a toll on my health.

It’s important to structure your day however it’s also ok to detox in ways that contribute to your overall wellbeing. Your body will feel rejuvenated and restored.

Here’s 7 simple ways to detox that I’ve found that I can do everyday:

1. STAY HYDRATED - WITH LEMON WATER

   Staying hydrated is essential to overall health, but water is especially effective at cleansing the body of unwanted toxins. Plus, dehydration can lead to more toxic buildup in the body, so making sure you’re drinking enough water every day is key to both feeling and looking healthy. Drinking warm lemon water that’s high in vitamin C and potassium is proven to help prep the body for digestion and boost immunity. I do this every morning or throughout the day I leave the lemon in my mug and refill with water or whatever tea i’m feeling at that moment. So refreshing.

2. SWEAT IT OUT / GO FOR A WALK

The lymphatic system is a key player in the detoxification process. Sweating has proven to help rid the body of harsh chemicals like phthalates and BPA, as well as heavy metals like arsenic and mercury that we can pick up from our utensils, food, environment and more. Most of us probably don’t have access to a steam room right now, but even a good workout will help you get your sweat in and get the bad stuff out. Try to do this even if it is very fast walking around your local park - appreciate the small things and bask in nature as the weather in the UK during lockdown still can be enjoyed!

3. SWAP YOUR COCKTAIL FOR A CELERY + GINGER JUICE - BUT STILL DRINK IT OUT OF A WINE GLASS BECAUSE WHY NOT?

There are a number of drinks that claim to boost digestion and lower inflammation, like celery infused ginger juice. Drinking pure celery juice is a morning must have for many health enthusiasts, who claim the antioxidants and nutrients found in the juice promote clear skin, increased energy, better digestion and more. However, I like to experiment and drink foods that still boost my immune system & electrolyte count, so I always add coconut water+ginger for that extra pizzazz! Don’t forget to drink it out of your wine glass because that’s a forever mood, hun.

4. DRINK DANDELION ROOT TEA 

Don’t be fooled by all of the “detox” teas out there this can actually be dangerous for your body. Dandelion Root tea is rich in fiber and vitamins and has been scientifically proven to support your liver and gut. Dandelion root is also a diuretic, which means it helps flush the body of excess water. I also make sure that I check with my herbalist Sophia (A herbal medicine enthusiast) for extra questions on herbs/all things health in regards to upping our daily intake of nutritious foods and newly discovered herbal teas.

5. EAT PLANTS

Processed sugar, alcohol, dairy, refined carbs and other inflammation triggers can be taxing on your gut and liver. You can support your body’s organs of elimination by making the swap for more plant-based foods that help boost detoxification in the body. Kale, broccoli, and Spinach are loaded with fiber and help your digestive system work efficiently. Berries, greens, beans, nuts, avocados, as well as healthy herbs and spices like turmeric & ginger will boost overall health as well.

6. GET SOME SLEEP.  

Sleep is arguably the most healing and restorative practice you can do every day for your body. Sleeping for 7-8 hours every night will help your body flush out excess toxins, boost digestion, promote mental clarity and even improve your skin. We also have blackout curtains and it helps block out the uncessary street lights. In addition it helps your body to be programmed to waking up when it needs to. Always listen to your body, it will thank you!

7. BREATHE + PRAY

Managing stress is essential to lowering inflammation, promoting balance and preventing the buildup of unwanted toxins in the body. Believe it or not, simply doing some breathing exercises or prayer can be extremely effective in supporting your body’s ability to detox, and will leave you feeling calm, relaxed and focused I always tend to do breathing exercises like inhaling through your nose for counts of 4 and exhaling through your mouth for 7 seconds; just before I go to sleep because it relaxes me as I let go of everything on my mind. It feels like my muscles are sinking into the bed.

In addition, having an air diffuser infused with essential oils and an air purifier helps reverse all the environmental agents that can cause ugly, unseen airborne dust. So get some essential oils & fragrances from Neals Yard or Holland & Barrett - I personally love Eucalyptus, Lemon, Bergamot, Peppermint & Ylang Ylang

With prayer, I tend to meditate on scripture for the day and fast on that specifically for those early morning moments alone or together. The word of God is truly supreme and calming - I can’t get enough of the mysteries as well as promises God has in store.

What are the other ways you detox? I would also like to add that with all these tips please try all the ones that suit your current lifestyle, however, please note that whilst you do, make sure that your phone, computer or laptop is also on time out because being present is key to detoxing your mind body and consciousness.

Photography by Kings_art

Stay Safe, Vea x