We’ve all experienced that Monday after a long weekend, where we might have overindulged a little. You know the feeling: sluggish, tired, and craving a reset. While our bodies naturally detoxify, there are ways to help them along the way, says detox expert Rebecca Faria, who counts Jennifer Aniston, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Hailey Bieber among her clients.
But what exactly is ‘detoxification’? “It’s the process of clearing out harmful substances from the body,” explains Faria. “Our bodies naturally do this through organs like the liver, kidneys, and skin. By ‘detox’, I mean taking steps to support these organs in doing their job. It’s like giving your body a boost to handle and eliminate things that can slow you down and impair your health.”
Where do these toxins come from? You’ll find them everywhere: in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the products we use daily. Faria points to pesticides on produce, additives in processed foods, and rising pollution levels as prime examples. While we’re constantly exposed, we don’t always realize it. “Our bodies are designed to handle a certain amount of these substances, but too much exposure can overwhelm the detoxification process,” Faria warns. “Being aware of these sources and making conscious choices like eating organic foods when possible can help reduce exposure.”
So how can we help our bodies detoxify? Here are Faria’s top tips:
Lymphatic Drainage Massage:
The lymphatic system plays a vital role in removing waste, but it doesn’t have a pump like the heart. A lymphatic drainage specialist encourages lymph fluid flow using their hands, reducing swelling, improving circulation and energy, and boosting your body’s natural detoxification process. It’s also incredibly relaxing! For best results, seek a specialist therapist, or try dry body brushing at home. Consistency is key!Leg Elevation:
Getting your legs up the wall is a free and easy way to drain lymphatic fluid. By elevating your legs above your heart, you encourage the flow of lymphatic fluid back towards the drains of the body, where it can be processed and eliminated.Start Your Day Right:
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Wake Up Early:
Aligning with your body’s natural circadian rhythm is essential for proper detoxification. This rhythm controls hormone release, including cortisol, which helps manage energy levels and stress. Waking up early helps regulate this rhythm.*
Tongue Scraping:
During the night, toxins can accumulate on the surface of your tongue. Scraping your tongue in the morning removes these toxins and prevents them from being reabsorbed during digestion.*
Hydration:
Drink a glass of water upon waking to flush out overnight toxins, stimulate your digestive system and kidneys, and help move waste effectively.*
Herbal Teas:
Incorporate herbal teas with ingredients like guaraná or ginger to support liver function and promote toxin elimination. These ingredients enhance the body’s natural detoxification pathways, especially in the liver.*
Sunlight Exposure:
Sunlight exposure helps regulate your internal clock and supports vitamin D synthesis. Vitamin D is important for immune function and influences detoxification enzymes in the liver. So after your morning routine, spend a few minutes in the sunlight to signal to your body that it’s time to start the day.By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can help your body naturally detoxify and feel your best. Remember, consistency is key, and small changes can make a big difference in your overall well-being.
