Detox is Not a Dirty Word

Detox is Not a Dirty Word

What do you think of when you hear the word “Detox?”

Weird green juice?
Putrid-smelling potions?
Hunger? 
Missing out on fun?
Boredom?

Unfortunately, the imbalanced approach to detox popularized by a culture that prioritizes external appearances over inner peace has taken what is a totally natural process and an essential component for health and made it into an extreme deprivation-based regimen that, instead of promoting well-being actually inhibits it. In simpler terms, the way we do Detox in our culture is all wrong.
 
The first mistake we make is WHEN we detox. 

The Spring and Autumn Equinox are the ideal times to detox—not the dead of Winter when we require more sustenance to balance more extreme temperatures. All you need to do is see what is happening in nature as the season shifts from winter into spring to understand that for something new to arise, something old must be shed. Seeds sprout only after laying dormant, butterflies emerge by shedding their cocoons. The same is true with us: our evolution requires that we release what no longer serves us.

In fact, Detox, or the release of waste, is an integral part of the natural cycle of life. Detoxification is happening constantly, but most of us are ingesting more toxins through the food we eat, the products we use, the clothes we wear, and the air we breathe than our body is able to eliminate naturally. A seasonal detox aligned with the energy of movement, however, helps to balance and accelerate this natural, ongoing process. 

The next issue is WHY we detox. 

Like so many things, detox is often marketed to prey upon our fears and insecurities. So like so many health initiatives cloaked in the disguise of self-improvement, detox becomes about a quick fix. Something we can do once and then go back to the way we were living instead of being a great way to introduce healthier habits. Maybe you have heard the gimmick Detox to Retox? Instead of creating lasting changes, this approach does more damage than good. But one of the best results of an intelligent detox is the potential to make significant shifts to your routine. 

This is not about getting your body bikini-ready—though glowing skin, toned muscles, and a feeling of lightness are part of the natural process of releasing toxins—it’s about feeling vibrant, awake, and aligned with the natural rhythms of life. Detox gives us an opportunity to press the “reset” button. 

Having a clear intention for why you want to Detox helps to keep you focused throughout the process, and having a group of people to support you and hold you accountable has a huge impact on your ability to stick with it and enjoy positive results for a long time. 

Finally, HOW we detox is, of course, the most crucial factor. 

As a naturally-occurring process, it makes sense that when we detox, we would want to support what our bodies are already accustomed to doing. But many detox approaches go completely against our natural rhythms, giving the body a complete shock that may give initially impressive results but fail to create any significant, lasting changes.  

And while detox usually focuses on the physical body, as we know, an holistic approach that takes into account all aspects of our wellbeing will have the most impact for our total health. 

Having the support of guides who understand the natural process of detoxification and can provide specific support for everything from meal plans and shopping lists to encouragement and moral support is invaluable. So is having the connection to others who are going through the experience with you. And whether it’s your first time or your 50th, each time you go through the process, you will learn something new and have a unique experience. 

Ultimately, like everything really, your experience of a Detox depends on how you approach it. You can set yourself up for a great Detox experience by timing it right with the seasonal shift around the Equinox, by having a clear and positive intention, and by aligning yourself with experienced guides and a supportive group.