Image source: Shutterstock

Summer is upon us and Christmas is behind us; what better time to reassess our habits and think about how we can kickstart the new year with a new and improved lifestyle. It’s no secret that many of us exhibit choices that do not do our body or our mind much good. If you want to truly transform yourself this year, read on to see how you can prepare your body for a cleanse this season.

• Get your detox diet down pat

Preparing your body for (or keeping it in shape during) summer is as simple as a little discipline and planning. Decide exactly what you want to detox from – be it alcohol, coffee, sugar, cigarettes or all of the above. Begin by completely cutting out these toxins, and although it may be uncomfortable for a few days or more, the benefits in the long run are unparalleled. Before you embark on a rigorous diet and exercise regime, the first step of a detox is cutting out the nasties that you want to prohibit from your life.

• Select smart supplements

Next on your detox journey, you’re going to want to equip your body with an adequate amount of nutrients to keep you healthy, energetic and satiated. If you have a restricted diet – for example vegetarian, vegan or gluten free – think about what nutrients you may be lacking, and try to incorporate these into your diet via a supplement or otherwise. For example, if you don’t get a lot of dairy in your diet, consider opting to buy calcium supplements to aid in enriching your bones and body.

• Boost your activity

There’s no point in detoxing just one part of your life.

If you’re going to prepare your body for summer, you ought to get it in the best shape possible – in every sense of the phrase. Of course, cutting out toxins and ensuring you are getting the right supplements is key, but after that you need to keep your muscles and bones active, too. Whether that means getting off the bus one stop early, cycling to work instead of driving or hitting the gym after work, try to incorporate activity into your daily routine. Then, exercise doesn’t feel like such a chore.

• Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!

Just like you, your liver enjoys being clean.

There’s no better way to flush out your liver than with refreshing H20. Water alkalizes your insides with natural minerals (providing you’ve bought natural spring water rather than chlorinated tap water). A good idea to make tap water healthy and tasty to drink is to use a water filtration system that removes the carbon and chlorine particles. Add a squeeze of lemon to your water to boost your water’s cleansing properties. Containing vitamin C and minerals, lemon boosts bodily functions and sweeps out bodily wastes.

• Don’t forget to have fun with it

A cleanse doesn’t have to be a depressing, boring exercise.

There is a plethora of recipes out there that can ensure that when you are detoxing, you’re eating satisfying food and fitting it into your current lifestyle. Think about mixing up your recipes, and not solely relying on counting calories. Just because something is low in kilojoules doesn’t mean that it’s good for you.

Are you feeling sluggish and slow?

Perhaps your productivity is dipping at work, or you’re finding it hard to remain in a stable mood? Think about the habits you have in your life, and if they are ultimately benefitting your mind and body. A detox might be just what you need to prepare your body for this season.