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Detox

Our bodies have an incredible ability to detoxify and excrete unwanted and potentially harmful substances from the system. Naturally, this process works very efficiently and does an excellent job. However, our environment has changed quite dramatically and more than ever we are exposed to exogenous and endogenous toxins that can have a negative effect on our health. Detoxification is a primary function of the body, constantly working and interacting with all other systems of the body. So when we are talking about detoxification, it is about improving and optimizing the function of your body’s own detoxification systems. This is done by decreasing the amount of toxins we put into our bodies while at the same time supporting our body’s detoxification and elimination systems with the nutrients it needs to function properly.

The detoxification system is a key component of our body’s optimal functioning. Most of the molecules made by our bodies every day, are for getting rid of waste products. Hundreds of enzymes, vitamins and other molecules are needed to help rid the body of unwanted waste products and chemicals. Hencce, it is important to ensure a steady supply of all essential nutrients through diet. Although the bulk of the work is done by the liver and the intestinal tract, the kidneys, lungs, lymphatic system and skin are all involved in this complex detoxification system.

Health experts agree that regular detox programmes can help to keep the body clean and functioning optimally. Take that time out for yourself - once or twice a year. To look after yourself internally and externally and feel light, clean and refreshed.

During the course of our detox programme you will learn how to continue keeping your intake of toxins low, what to eat and what not to eat. Small every day habits you can acquire that will help you stay healthy and how to prepare your meals to get the most nutrition out of your food.

By following a few simple guidelines you can support your body’s detoxification making sure your body is clean and healthy. Reduce the amount of toxins you ingest as a first measure. That means, avoid processed foods that can be alternated and fortified with chemicals unnatural to your body, reduce the amount of stimulants such as alcohol, coffee and cigarettes that can be extremely hard for your liver to process - your most important detoxification organ! Also, have as much fresh air as possible - avoid polluted streets, opt for quiet roads and parks wherever possible.

There is a lot more you can incorporate into your daily life to avoid accumulating too many toxins that can make you ill. Small things such as starting the day with warm lemon water and having as many liver supporting foods as possible can do wonders. Liver supporting foods include brassica vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, mustard greens, brussels sprouts, but also spices such as turmeric and cinnamon, leafy greens such as spinach, collard greens, swiss chard, watercress and green as well as dandelion root tea. Exercising daily or as much as you can and visiting the sauna once a week are other means to keep your toxins at a minimum and support your body's natural detoxification.

Do I need to detoxify?

Here are some commonly known indications (list is not exhaustive) for possible toxic overload - if you answer any with yes, you might be accumulating toxins:

- I live in a large urban or industrial area
- I eat large fish (swordfish, tuna, shark, tilefish) more than once a week
- I almost never break a real sweat

- I have one or more of the following symptoms: fatigue, muscle aches, headaches, concentration and memory problems

- I have Fibromyalgia or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

- I drink tap or well water

- I dry clean my clothes

- I am constipated and only go every other day or less often

- I urinate small amounts of dark, strong smelling urine only a few times a day

- I work or live in a building with poor ventilation or windows that don’t open

- I use household or lawn garden chemicals or get my house or apartment treated for bugs by an exterminator

- I have more than 1-2 mercury amalgams

- When I drink coffee or caffeine containing substances I feel wired up, an increase in joint and muscle aching or anxiety, palpitations, sweating, dizziness

- I suffer from recurrent headaches, allergy symptoms, nausea, diarrhoea or indigestion

Each one of us is genetically and biochemically unique. Some of us are good at getting rid of toxins and waste, and others are not. It may take years for a person to develop symptoms of toxicity as it's a slow build up. Regular fasts and other means to support the body's detoxification as well as acquiring healthy habits are key for long-term health.

 

At Earth Yoga Village we specialize in a detox programme that is holistic and includes different aspects, physically and mentally. It is important to regard every individual person as a whole interlinked being and our Detox Therapist focuses on evaluating the root cause of ailments, discomforts or just every day struggles like headaches, digestive issues or acne. Our programme can help initiate the body's self-healing process and together with the advice given to follow after the retreat your path for a healthy future is set.

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