As we soak up the year-end festivities, more often than not we get a little more indulgent in food and partying. This also means that after the post-festive season binge, a detox is in order. We take a look at some of the ways to cleanse and nourish our bodies after the festive excesses.
Drink Lemon Water
Swap your coffee in the morning for a glass of lemon water, which is known to detox the body. A squeeze of lemon into a glass of lukewarm water is all it takes. This low-calorie concoction not only aids digestion but is also said to boost metabolism, kick-starting the detoxing. Drinking lemon water is also great for your body to recharge and rehydrate, especially after a late night out. For those who prefer a more flavourful drink, try adding a drizzle of honey.
Have A Hearty Salad
After all the high-calorie meals, your body needs a timeout. There’s no better way to do this than by having a powerhouse salad filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Such high-fibre foods promote bowel movement and can help rid the body of toxins. You can never underestimate the power of a hearty salad in detoxing the body and boosting it with essentials such as vitamins C and E, folic acid and lycopene, among others. Choose cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and kale, which are known for their cancer-fighting properties. A good detox salad would also include high-antioxidant fruits such as blueberries, raspberries and pomegranates.
Cupping
This is part of the traditional Chinese medicine canon in which cups made of glass or silicone are applied onto the body, creating suction on the skin. The pressure then draws blood to the areas where the cups are placed, increasing overall circulation. Proponents believe that cupping can improve the flow of qi, or vital energy, that flows in the body. Having a smooth flow of qi and improved blood circulation are known to dispel toxins and relieve muscle tension and renenergise the body, promoting healing. There’s downtime, though: There’s usually bruising on areas where the cupping is done, so be prepared for it.
Sweat It Out At A Sauna
The health benefits of saunas have long been documented by doctors. Sweating is one of the best ways to remove toxins from the body, which are then excreted through its largest organ: the skin. The efficacy of saunas is such that they are now a staple of the global wellness culture. Sweating it out at the sauna, however, should be practised with caution, especially if you suffer from high blood pressure.
Take A Cold Shower
Did you know that jumping into a cold shower can actually promote detoxification? As the cold water hits you, your blood circulates more quickly in the body so as to maintain a constant temperature. Such a shower also jump-starts the lymph system, stimulating lymphatic flow. The result is that the body detoxifies waste products and toxins, boosting one’s metabolism and immune system. Besides, there are also physiological benefits to a cold shower. The act opens up the lungs and enhances oxygen intake, releasing endorphins to lower stress while increasing mental alertness.
Unplug From Technology
Try a digital detox and get a good mental cleanse. Unplug from devices such as the TV or mobile phone, and take a clean break from social media. This timeout will not only provide you with some quietude but also “detoxes” your mind by letting it take a breather. Take a break from reading news that can negatively affect your mental well-being – a news fast over a couple of days also means you’re removing the stress and “anxiety toxins” from reading negative headlines. Instead, start afresh with a renewed perspective of the coming year. Take a deep breath and put a smile on your face.
