Detox!

Spring, according to the calendar, has arrived! With that, every year, I do a liver cleanse. In Chinese medicine, each season corresponds with an organ, or a system or organs (the Chinese view things in groups of organs, more of a “systems thinking”). And Spring matches up with the liver.

Carlos, bless his heart, did this one with me. It makes such a difference when you have a partner. We tried the Metagenics 10-day detox plan (for tips on how to gently detox yourself, click here.) It was great. The gist of it was eliminating processed foods, the top allergenic foods (gluten, egg, dairy, nuts) and animal protein, while eating lots of fruits, veggies and some cleansing herbs and vitamins. Except for the lethargy, it was smooth sailing for me. But, I do detox every season and keep a pretty healthy lifestyle. However, I feel like a new person and am motivated to stick to a lifestyle of slowing down, and less animal protein and chocolate.

Carlos had a rougher time with some detox symptoms (chills, sweats, nausea), but as a result, I think he’s a new man…and one dedicated to going without coffee! If anyone knows Carlos, this seems like I’m writing the fiction that he writes. But nope, he is enjoying not feeling the ups and downs in his moods that come from excessive coffee intake.

The hardest part for me wasn’t the food plan but the slowing down. It was the slowest I’ve been in probably three years. It made me realize what a break neck pace I’ve been keeping and I’m ready to bring more stillness. During the 10-day detox, I got a massage, read some great books, really enjoyed catching up with friends on the phone and reading trashy magazines like US Weekly and those other star magazines that recycle the same drama every month at Barnes and Nobles (I won’t pay for them!). It was so much fun!

So as Spring brings new beginnings, what would make life feel brand new and guide you toward the life you want to lead? I think all of us should look at how we can take better care of ourselves. And then do it…and pass on that energy to others. What a wonderful world this would be.

R.B.’s Story: Connecting to Her Body & Life

Ali is fun, informative and inviting…she made learning about food, recipes and finding a healthier balance fun. When I first met Ali, I could barely find time to breathe, let alone think about cooking a meal. However, Ali helped me to slow down and find a healthier balance that extended far beyond my plate. Ali gave me easy suggestions for ways to change my habits, but mostly she put me in touch with my own body. She helped me become more aware and recognize when things are off so that I could adjust and achieve improved digestion and wellness. She helped me find an inner balance and think about the decisions in life that truly work for me.

Her unconditional support made these changes feel like a natural evolution that just needed a gentle nudge to wake up and start moving on a better, healthier path. Ali is truly dynamic! Her positive and warm energy made each meeting even better and her consistent support and encouragement helped every step of the way. ~R.B. Philadelphia, PA