To stop our toxic bucket from tipping over, we need to know what we can do to care for ourselves and our environment, not only detoxing where we can, but also nourishing our spiritual, physical, and emotional wellbeing.
As part of this, the power of ritual is important. Studies have shown that rituals have the capacity to deepen connections, as well as bring us fulfilment and light. They can be small, simple, seemingly insignificant acts we repeat every day, or more profound routines that we return to whenever we need help or nourishment. Whichever the case, rituals are an important component of our lives and something to be nurtured.
4 key areas of our lives which could do with a detox and benefit from ritual:
– Our home
– Our diet
– Our beauty and personal care regime
– Our mind and emotions
Some of our favourites include;
TAKE A SAUNA OR A BATH
A sauna or bath is one of those rewarding luxuries we should all indulge in, at least once a week. Not only do they help to relieve and relax tired muscles, they also increase circulation, help release toxins via the GI tract, and lift our mood. In other words, they’re a fabulous ritual for mind and body, with saunas having the added benefit (if they’re used regularly) of helping to relieve stress, control blood pressure, generally improve cardiovascular performance, and even help us sleep better! When bathing, our experience can be enhanced further by prepping the skin with a spot of dry brushing prior to the bath, as well as by the addition of quality salts and essential oils to the bath itself. But be warned about essential oils! They should only be added to the bath via a carrier oil like olive or grapeseed oil. Adding them directly will leave them sitting on top of the water, where they’ll likely come directly in contact with the skin, something which can sting or cause irritation.
MASSAGE OR PAT PRODUCTS IN,TAKING THE TIME TO APPLY WITH A LOVING ATTITUDE
Therapeutic skin massage, warm compresses and fragrant botanical oils make aromatic, sensory beauty product application a treat for the soul as well as the skin. Studies show that massaging products into our skin helps increase blood circulation and encourages lymphatic drainage, something which holds true even when we focus on one small area of our body, like our feet, giving it our undivided love and attention for the day. Note though, that there are areas, like the delicate skin under our eyes, where we may find it more beneficial to gently pat the products in.
SET CLEAR INTENTIONS
Consider finishing your ritual by setting one clear goal for the day. It may be as simple as connecting with a friend or as difficult as completing that work assignment that you’ve been stressing about, but make sure it’s achievable and that you put a timeframe to it, so that it doesn’t stretch out to the point where you miss doing it or it becomes an unattainable drama.
