Spring is here! The daffodils have bloomed, seeds are sprouting, the birds are chirping before the sun has risen. Along with nature bursting from the earth, so is the notion that in spring we need to ditch the clutter, get active, and detox our bodies.
Changing seasons are perfect opportunities for modifying food choices, organizing living spaces, and finding the space outdoors for movement. Rather than viewing the changing season as a time for detoxing, we like to honor the shifting needs of our bodies. A complete overhaul, like a detox, is not always necessary to move with the rhythm of the changing body. What is beneficial is the mindful approach to making small changes that encourage a greater feeling of well-being - to feel good, to sleep better, to keep our bodies and minds in harmony, free of disease and sickness, digesting well, and feeling ample energy. We have come up with some simple changes that compliment the blossoming spring energy:
A week without coffee: Swap your coffee for dandelion root tea for a week and see how you feel. Dandelion root tea is known as a gentle diuretic that is full of vitamins and minerals. Buy organic when possible. We are using this tea to support liver and gallbladder health. Heavy winter eating, drinking, and resting can add more stress to the liver. Taking a break from coffee and supporting liver health may improve digestion, allergies, PMS symptoms, and a tendency for frustration and impatience. This tea has a deep, rich and nutty flavor. Double up on tea bags if the craving for coffee is severe- the bitterness will curb the craving. Drink plenty of water during this week!
Superfood infusion: Add a dose of super green powders to your morning ritual. Dark greens and algaes are alkalizing for the body (anti-inflammatory) and provide a feast of phytonutrients that your body uses at the cellular level. Green powders with algae have protein too- which can help relieve sugar cravings and symptoms of frenetic blood sugars. Try adding super green powders to smoothies or pineapple juice. We suggest Alive N Vibrant Super Green powders or Amazing Grass Green Superfood Powder. If the afternoon slump is a common issue, add a super green juice to your afternoon.
Eat more vegetables. Shop the produce section or local farmers markets that are open again and thriving. Eat salads with fresh spring greens topped with asparagus, leeks, lemon and ginger fried lightly in coconut oil. Pluck homegrown herbs from a garden, windowsill or balcony for flavor and overall wellbeing. Herbs are amazing healing tools for many ailments and they add interesting flavors to common salads. Lightly sautee veggies to aid in digestion but do not cook them until completely soft (keep a little crisp in the middle). Substitute bread with romaine lettuce when making that turkey sandwich and go to fresh veggies with dip for snacking. Get creative with recipes to add new interest to valuable, wholesome, nutrient-dense vegetables.
Get fresh with new beverages. Take a break from the bars and host backyard get-togethers sipping on tea, homemade kombucha, or infused spritzers. Simply cutting back on your alcohol intake can help you cultivate awareness around drinking habits, reduces sugar intake, and give the liver space to detox from a heavy winter. Try a nice organic, no sulfites added wine if eliminating alcohol is not an option.
Spring is the perfect time to make a transition from comfort habits to intentional wellbeing. Make some small changes in big areas of life and try new things. Letting go of pent up emotional tension, addressing unhealthy eating habits, and striving for more balance in life will relieve stress and provide more energy as we move into summer.
Find small but beautiful moments throughout your day. Give yourself time to relax and enjoy the little things.