Update: If you'd like a guided cleanse, I now have a guided program on Insight Timer !
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An Ayurvedic Cleanse is not fasting, nor does it involve restricting food.
A short or longer cleanse is recommended twice a year (Spring and Fall), when seasons change and we are more suspectible to dis-ease and when our immunity is more vulnerable.
In the Fall, our goal is to eliminate the residual heat of Summer that might be trapped in the body, as well as to ground and anchor as things get a bit wobbly and Vata (think dry, mobile, rough and cold) becomes more present in the weather.
An Ayurvedic Cleanse include pre-cleanse days to ease us into it, mono diet days to give our digestive system a break, and post-cleanse days (which are SUPER important), where we gently re-introduce (or decided not to...) some more normal foods.
During the whole cleanse process, we want to reduce and limit the outward expression of energy and take good care of ourselves, ie have limited appointments and social times, and spend more time resting and connecting with nature. It's not just food, it's a whole energetic reset.
Each one of us is different and has different needs. If you'd like me to craft a personalised cleanse, including yoga and meditation practices, please reach out and email me (info@emiliebergeryoga.com).
There are so many reasons to participate in an Ayurvedic cleanse...
- for a physical reset - to clear mental fog - to (re)engage with your own authority and willpower
- to (re)commit to self care
- to (re)prioritize your well being
- to start to address physical symptoms and imbalances
- to mark the seasonal transition
etc
Throughout the cleanse:
- wake up around 6am
- go to bed by 10 am
- eat around 12 for lunch, and 6 pm for dinner
- start your day mindfully, with practices that nourish and ground you (journaling, meditation, gentle movement etc)
- end your day mindfully, with practices that nourish and ground you (oiling the body or the feet, using aromatherapy, doing something creative and relaxing)
- limit your use of electronic devices and screens, especially at night
- hydrate with warm water throughout the day (about 60 oz)
- don't snack and make friends with a bit of hunger. We are trying to lighten the load on the digestive system, and a constant input of food isn't helping
- rest (yoga nidra, restorative yoga and short 20 mn naps are great options)
- be in nature as much as possible
Pre Cleanse Days (usually 2 to 5 days)
- each day, eliminate one or several of the following, in this order: cold beverages, animal protein, alcohol and cafeine, processed and natural sugars, processed carbs, dairy, nuts, then any processed food at all)
- eat plant based, warm, well spiced and soupy foods (breakfast: oatmeal; lunch and dinner: grain bowls, stews, soups)
Mono Diet Days (usually 3 to 5 days)
- breakfast: oatmeal or miso soup
- lunch and dinner: kitchari
Post Cleanse Days (usually 4 to 5 days)
- slowly reintroduce foods, one at a time (or not at all...), in this order: all vegetables, fruits (favor cooked over raw), all grains, all legumes, then dairy (preferably warm, fresh and spiced, like a spiced warm milk drink or fresh cheese over cured cheese), nuts and seeds in small quantities, natural sweeteners (honey and maple syrup)
- eat plant based, warm, well spiced and soupy foods (breakfast: oatmeal; lunch and dinner: grain bowls, stews, soups)
I have been using Banyan Botanical products for a decade, both for myself and with clients, and I trust the care and ethics put into their work. Use code EMILIE to receive 15% off your order.
I recommend:
- the Kitchari Kit
- the Cleanse (or Vegan) Cleanse Bundle
- the Daily Routine Bundle
as well as
- the tongue scraper
- Triphala tablets
- Kitchari Spice Mix
- CCF tea
When you click on the link below, I receive a 15% commission from your order.
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I understand that the purpose of this article is to educate me on the modalities of yoga, Ayurveda, meditation and aromatherapy.
I understand that I am to listen to the feedback my body is giving me and am responsible for monitoring my own condition in collaboration with my team of doctors.
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read through The Holistic Initiative LLC. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency department or call 911 immediately.
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