It is ESSENTIAL that you choose a time to cleanse/detox (I use both words interchangeably) when you will not be under a lot of stress. The ideal time is one where you have created the space to breathe and relax. This state of relaxation supports you both physically and mentally in the natural process of letting go.
Below are the 3 key areas in your life you need to address before you detox to set yourself up for success.
Clean Your Diet:
The intention of any cleanse is not to be a shock to your system. Everyone’s goals for doing a cleanse may be different, but are similar in that the intention is to bring a greater sense of well-being to the body.
The week before you begin your cleanse, cut out gluten, processed foods, and added sugar. This will mean a bit more planning and food prep on your part, but will set you up for greater success in the long run.
If you’re a regular coffee drinker (like me) or consume caffeine daily in another form, begin to slowly reduce your caffeine consumption each day. For example, if you’re a coffee drinker and normally consume close to 16 ounces, go to 12 ounces. Stay at 12 ounces for a couple days. Then reduce your coffee consumption to 8 ounces, stay there for a couple days, then go down to 4 ounces of coffee, then to 2 ounces. Ideally, by the time you start your cleanse, you have already weaned your body off caffeine. Letting go gradually like this, will allow the transition into your detox to be much easier on both your body and mind.
CleanYour Environment:
I believe it is really important that the space you are living in is beautiful, clean, and organized. Especially during a cleanse. Even if you do not realize it, clutter affects us on a subconscious level. Take the time (or hire some help) to do some spring cleaning chores around the house; the ones you have been putting off that are always in the back of your head. Begin doing this a couple weeks before your planned cleanse. Then, when it is cleanse time, you will be able to sit back and relax, enjoying the clean comfort of your home, without the nagging household to-dos in your head (except of course the daily ones 🙂 )
Clean Your Schedule:
Prep for success and ease during your cleanse by creating space in your both home and work schedule. Before you begin your cleanse, clear as much unnecessary work or obligations as possible. If you’re a stay-at-home mom or dad, or if you cook dinner after work for your family, hire some outside help. Have someone come in and help you with the laundry, cooking, cleaning, etc. This will only be a temporary position, but you may very well decide it is worth the small investment as you can give more fully of yourself. Having the extra help during your cleanse will also help you have the space and freedom for more relaxation (the state in which all healing takes place) and less stress.