Cleansing for Rejuvenation

When you hear the terms “refresh” and “rejuvenate” what do you think of? Perhaps a long vacation in which you lounge in the warm sun. Or a good night’s rest, uninterrupted by disturbed-sleep patterns. But do you also think of internal cleansing, to help clear your organ systems of toxins and to rebuild your system?

Fasting and cleansing have become quite popular in recent years as we grow more aware of the toxins in our environment and foods. Cleansing serves many purposes, such as eliminating toxins and waste, rebuilding and re-toning organ systems, building a healthier immune system, and even re-establishing healthier food cravings. After all, very few of us survive the holidays without an excess of sugary and fatty foods.

In the dark, cold days of deep winter that we are now fully engaged with (although, the light is now starting to return!), I do not like the idea of long fasts. Spring, summer, and late summer are generally better seasons to explore fasting. In the winter, your system is working harder to keep warm; a rigorous fast can actually cause damage during this time of year. If you do feel compelled to fast, try just a one day fast, a brown rice fast, or vegetable juice fast with spirulina for added nutrition. For a juice fast in the winter, consider including ginger for its warming properties.

This time of year, I prefer cleansing to support and renew the body. However, I believe that gentle cleansing is most appropriate. While cleansing, try simplifying your diet to include mainly warm, cooked whole grains, steamed vegetables, and clear soups. Then consider herbs that may support a healthy cleansing for you.

Milk Thistle is cleansing for the liver and blood. If you are noticing a lot more anger, frustration, or depression surfacing in your psyche than usual, liver cleansing may be a beneficial way to clear stagnation.

Burdock root and dandelion root are excellent blood purifiers and builders.

Chlorophyll offers a variety of benefits, including blood cleansing, blood building via increased oxygenation, and inflammation reduction.

Another popular way to cleanse is by drinking the lemonade blend that is traditionally part of the Master Cleanse. This lemonade is made by blending lemon juice, ground cayenne pepper, and grade B maple syrup (contains more nutrients than grade A), and water. Although the Master Cleanse usually includes fasting, drinking the cayenne lemonade described here, along with a simple diet will provide great benefits to your system.

Seaweed, especially kombu (also known as kelp), is a highly nutritive source for building and supporting the kidneys.

When using herbs, it is a good idea to do so in cycles that incorporate time off from the herbs. Possible cycles include 3 days on, 1 day off; 2 weeks on, 3 days off, 3 or 4 weeks on, 1 week off. Before starting a cleanse, be sure to speak with an herbalist (such as Anji Church), naturopath, physician, or other health care provider, especially if you currently take any prescription medications that may contraindicate a cleanse or fast.

May peace and health be upon you!

Guided Meditation

Click here to listen to or download an MP3 file of the guided meditation that is part of this month's newsletter.

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