Total body cleanse: Why do an autumn cleanse?

September 14, 3:31 PMSF Mind and Body ExaminerAna Poirier

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Autumn leaves: Stock.xchng

Summer is a time for abundance, generally filled with lots of activities and events with family and friends, picnics, parties, and vacations. It tends to be a very energetic time of year with many activities packed into 3 short months. Given these conditions, it is not uncommon to take in more foods, beverages and environmental elements that are not so great for the body like alcohol, sugar, ice cream, processed and/or barbequed meats, soda, chlorine, etc.

The autumn is an ideal time to do a total body cleanse and help support the body, mind and spirit feel its best. According to The Chinese Five Element theory, the fall season is associated with the metal element, which relates to the Lung and Large Intestine.

The Lung and Large Intestine energies are at a peak during the autumn; acting to take in vital energy and release what is not needed. Imbalances in the metal element can result in excess mucus, allergies, cough, bronchitis, sinus and ear infections, asthma, skin problems, headaches, fatigue, gas, constipation and, diarrhea.

Any excess toxins that have accumulated in the system over the more active summer months will now attempt to make their way out through the body’s channels of elimination, which include the colon, lungs and skin. By doing a cleanse at this time, harmony is created and the body is supported in detoxifying thoroughly and more effectively.

In choosing to gently cleanse the lungs and colon in the autumn you can often stave off the usual colds and flu, as well as cancer. Pungent foods such as hot peppers and chilies are excellent at protecting the lungs. White pungent foods, such as garlic, ginger, turnips, horseradish, cabbage, daikon, and common radish can be especially important to include, as this color specifically affects the lungs. By consuming these foods raw or slightly cooked, their effect is maximized.

Dark green and golden-orange vegetables are very helpful in keeping the immune activity bolstered and protecting both the lungs and colon against cancer. The chlorophyll in the green foods is strongly supportive in inhibiting viruses and assisting the lungs in discharging toxic residues. Eat abundant amounts of broccoli, parsley, kale, turnip and mustard greens, watercress, wheat or barley grass, spirulina, and blue green algae. Include the golden-orange vegetables such as carrots, winter squash and pumpkin.
Fiber will help support the colon, so be sure to include plenty of whole vegetables and fruits as well as high fiber seeds such as ground flax seed and soaked chia seed.

For better health, immunity, energy and even digestion, a total body cleanse in the autumn can be just the thing to get through the holiday and winter season at top form.

For more info:

Online Autumn Cleanse

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Devana Wellness

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