Spring into health

Spring is the season of re-birth. Take a close look at where you are in your life; decide what you no longer need  and what no longer serves who you want to be. This is the best season to go for the New You!

 We are naturally healthy and creative beings, but we can easily become blocked by our attitudes, the foods we eat , exposure to toxins, and other stresses.

You can blossom this spring by trying our simple tips.

• Make a commitment to cleanse your life and your home—think Purification.

• Spring is the season of the liver and gall bladder – the best time of year to protect your liver. Take a break from alcohol and avoid exposure to chemicals wherever possible.

• Avoid ‘junky’ fatsincluding fried oils, hydrogenated fats, and the low-quality oils commonly used in most restaurants. Our bodies need good oils to keep us lubricated and flexible.

• The ideal oil to use is a cold-pressed organic, virgin olive oil combined with the natural essential fatty acids (essential means your body needs them) found in nuts and seeds A handful or two of fresh, raw, organic nuts and seeds daily is helpful and healthy for just about everyone.

• Enjoy nature's bounty—fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables are the best. Spring greens are wonderful - look for miner's lettuce, chickweed, some cleavers and dandelion greens, and put some on these in your mixed lettuce salad. Fresh spinach is delicious in salads with olive oil and balsamic vinegar (add feta or goat’s cheese as a treat).

• Other fruits that are great for spring meals include oranges and lemons, strawberries and dates. Avocado is a great source of the good oils we were previously talking about.

• Herbs are useful during the spring season as they aid detoxification. Bowel cleansing herbs include senna leaf, cascara sagrada, and slippery elm bark. Dandelion and milk thistle leaves strengthen and protect the liver and help in its healing. Licorice root will help balance energy and digestion, as well as supporting the adrenals against stress.

• Update or begin an exercise program. First, stretch out; awaken your body. Yoga, stretching and Chi-gung are great for maintaining your youthfulness and flexibility. Most people will experience an increase in their energy levels, which grows as they exercise regularly.

• Above all, give yourself the time to truly experience Nature. Take some time to be outdoors and play. Enjoy the spring winds and breezes. Rekindling your Earth connection brings benefits that last beyond this season, continuing to enrich the whole of your life. This can happen, even in a city park, if you relax and let in your surroundings; surrender to Nature's silence and embrace it. Breathe in the life of spring.