How to Cleanse Toxins in the Body The Ayurvedic Way
Ayurveda is an ancient yogic tradition of mindful medicinal practices focused on bringing balance to the mind and body. They use a powerful cleanse known as panchakarma whenever there is a buildup of excess toxins from undigested food, emotions, and experiences (ama). This detox is balancing for all constitutions (doshas) and is extremely low-cost. Traditionally, panchakarma is performed 3 times a year, at the change of each season, however you may do it whenever you feel any symptoms of excess ama, which include:
- Stiffness
- Undesired weight gain or inability to lose weight
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Cravings for sugars and carbohydrates
- Candida
- Dry skin, rashes or acne
- White coating on your tongue
Unlike modern detoxes like juice fasts or elimination diets, which can bring about imbalance, Ayurvedic cleansing is all about nourishing and healing the mind-body. A typical panchakarma lasts 3- 4 weeks and has equal 3 phases, but can be customised to suit your needs.
Phase 1: Preparation
The first week is about preparing the gut with a clean diet that creates minimal gut residue. You need to focus on hydration during this phase. During this phase, aim to eat foods that are simple and warm, and incorporate lots of green veggies, leafy greens and beets. Foods to avoid are:
- Processed foods
- Dairy
- Sugar
- Meat (eggs are fine)
- Beans
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
Menu Example:
Breakfast:
- Oatmeal cooked with apple and cinnamon
- Savoury oatmeal with ghee, salt and wilted micro-greens
Lunch and supper:
- Veggie soup and salad with shredded beets and rice
- Quinoa, roast veggies and tahini
Phase 2: Cleanse
This phase comprises a nourishing kitchari mono-diet with and ghee oleation (ingestion of healthy oils). Kitchari is a traditional Indian dish made with basmati rice, mung dahl, ghee, and spices. It is considered a “perfect meal” as it provides all the essentials: carbohydrates, a complete protein, and fats. It also promotes strong digestive fire called agni. This kitchari recipe will get you started. Remember, it’s totally normal to feel emotional, tired or irritable during this phase as healing will release stored emotions and toxins.
During this phase, you will eat kitchari for all your meals. Try to eat 3 meals a day and eat until you are full to sustain you between meals and avoid being tempted to snack. You can either incorporate in your kitchari, or take it melted in water in the morning on an empty stomach.
Phase 3: Rejuvenate
This phase is similar to the first, however, it’s important to reintroduce foods slowly and not eat everything at once. Start by adding steamed veggies, and then later add egg or beans. Continue to avoid caffeine, alcohol and meat which you’ll be sensitive to post cleansing. Rather focus on your health and how to win big online instead.
Hydration
It’s extremely important to keep the body well hydrated throughout by drinking plenty of water. This will help to lubricate the digestive system and optimally thin lymph fluids to support immunity.
Lifelong Balance
Use this cleanse whenever you are feeling out of balance to support and nourish your body and mind. Get a friend to join you to help each other along the way!