Spring Cleaning
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Despite the fickle temperatures of recent weeks, one thing is clear in Central Florida – Spring is just around the corner. Seeds are sprouting and the weather is warming. Winter gave us respite to relax, reduce our activity, and go within. Spring brings us a time of renewal and rebirth – in fact, for many indigenous cultures and for the zodiac, Spring Equinox marks the beginning of the new year. With the new beginning comes a perfect opportunity to cleanse the old to make room for new energy and vitality.
While juicing, raw food fasts, and “master cleansing” are all popular and effective ways to cleanse our bodies, for those whose daily routine does not afford for the lifestyle shift such cleanses can require, there are fortunately many other gentle yet powerful ways to release the unwanted to pave way for new growth.
An often overlooked aspect of cleansing is truly nourishing the body. Springtime tonic herbs like nettles, red clover blossoms, and dandelion leaves help build the blood so that it can more effectively deliver oxygen to all the cells of our body – an important element in fully cleansing our tissues. Dandelion and burdock roots are also effective and gentle herbs to help cleanse the liver and the blood of stored toxins.
Fresh squeezed lemon juice is an alkalizing tonic that can help jumpstart the body’s own cleansing abilities. Another fabulous cleansing tonic is raw apple cider vinegar. Mix a spoonful in a glass of water – and, for those with less than adventurous palates, add a bit of honey to mellow the flavor. Your grandparents likely relied on this tonic to keep themselves cleansed and energized – try it a half hour before each meal to enjoy its support as a digestive aid, too.
Perhaps most ignored in our bustling urban culture is the cleansing effect of spending time in nature. Get out of the stale air of your office, remove yourself from the pollution of urban living, and recharge your body with life-giving oxygen by visiting a nearby river or forest to restore your respiratory system – and your spirit. Try a day trip to the Econlockhatchee River or Wekiva Springs, two natural gems right in our backyard. A walk in the woods can often cleanse your body and your mind as effectively as the trendiest (and priciest) cleansing kits.
Most of all, remembr that the Spring Equinox ushers in a time of new balance. This season invites us to raise our awareness to what is out of balance in our lives, so that we may tend to these elements and cleanse negative patterns, energy, and routines out of our lifestyle. Engage in simple morning meditation, take a walk upon waking, listen to calming music, or begin a springtime journal to help you reconnect with that which stabilizes your mind and cleanses your spirit. Just like the plants in our garden, we need a strong, nourishing foundation to grow. Feed yourself this Spring – and discover the natural cleansing of balance.
- Emily Ruff
