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“Detox” has become a buzzword in the health and wellness industry but what does it really mean?

Our bodies are regularly and inevitably exposed to toxins that are removed through liver, gastrointestinal system & kidneys but, there are some ways to reduce the amount of toxins we introduce into our body and to improve the functions of those organs and systems.

In this post will explore how Yoga can help, and we’ll provide also practical tips and techniques to let you started.

How Yoga can help :

• Improves digestion and boosted energy
• Enhances mental clarity and focus
• Supports immune function and overall health
• Reduces stress and promotes relaxation
• Stimulates lymphatic system to remove toxins
• Increases circulation and oxygenation
• Aids in digestion and elimination

According to a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, practicing yoga can improve the function of the liver and of the kidneys by reducing stress and enhancing circulation. Certain poses in Yoga like breathing exercises, twists, inversions and forward bend can significantly contribute. These poses are known to stimulate blood flow, aid in digestion and promote the reduction of inflammation.

TWISTS:

These are the best to stimulate digestion, remove toxins from the digestion system and to stimulate the lymphatic system.

In the pic. : Seated Sage twist pose – aka half Lord of the fishes variation – (Ardha Matsyendrasana)

INVERSIONS:

They improve circulation, stimulate the lymphatic system and metabolism. Remove toxins from neck, shoulders and brain and energize the immune system.

In the pic.: Plow Pose (Halasana)

FORWARD FOLDS:

They are the best to stimulate liver, kidneys and adrenal glands. They also improve flexibility and reduce stress.

In the pic. : Downward facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

Remember to always practice Yoga with a qualified instructor, to take it slow, to listen to your body and to focus on your breath and alignment.

A regular practice of Yoga and, in general regular exercise, is always beneficial to our overall wellness.

For optimal benefits, we can also reduce our exposure to chemicals and harmful products with small precautions. We can incorporate a healthy diet avoiding junk food, processed food and reducing or eliminating the amount of alcohol, eating organically grown foods. using non-toxic household cleaners and personal care products, limiting the exposure to plastics, avoiding smoking and drugs and reducing the exposure to heavy metals (for example using a non-toxic cookware, filtering water, avoiding areas with high level of pollution).

Remember, Yoga is the best gift you can give yourself at all levels.

In terms of detox we also have extra small changes can make a big difference.

Start with what you can manage and gradually work towards a healthier lifestyle!

Bonus tip!

Go get a detox juice!

Juices extract vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables making them more accessible for the body to digest. The liquid nourishment is easily absorbed by the digestive system allowing the gut to rest while nourishing the cells and flushing out waste/stuck particles from the colon.

Benefits: Helping detox the body / Increasing energy/ Reducing inflammation/ Improving digestion/ Boosting hydration

Which juices and why?

• Cranberry : Reduce the risk of UTIs by 32.5% (despite mixed research), rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, support immune system and urinary health.
• Tomato : Good source of vitamin C, potassium and lycopene, which promote skin health, reduces inflammation and improves immune system.
• Beet : Great source of betalains, antioxidants and inorganic nitrates, which have been shown to increase athletic performance, decrease heart disease risks reducing the blood pressure, help skin health, benefit your liver and immune system.
• Acai berry : Rich in flavonoids, ferulic acid and chlorogenic acid, which have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and mental decline.
•  Obviously, you can use any other fruits or veggie and you’ll certainly cannot go wrong.

It is extremely important to consume also whole vegetables and fruits, during the day, to obtain a great source of fibers, essentials for our well-being.