Spring Cleaning: The Benefits of an Ayurvedic Cleanse

Each season, we have an opportunity to refresh, reset and rebirth. Like nature, we have our own internal flow that is natural for the mind and body to move in based on the 5 great elements.

In Kapha season, when the earth and water element are high - we need detox and cleansing. We need to support the overwhelming heaviness of the water and earth elements emerging as spring begins to blossom.

In Vata season, when the space and air element become unpredictable - we need nourishment and grounding. We need to support the nervous system and digestive system as the air becomes drier, and cooler.

In both seasons, we can look to a gentle mono-diet cleanse with medicinal herbs to help this process.

For the sake of this article, we will focus on Spring.

Because Kapha season is damp, wet and heavy - we may feel more fatigue and lethargic. This makes sense as the elements go into over drive in the body; (mirroring nature) and our systems do their due diligence to support. Kapha regulates the lymphatic system and lubrication in the body. We may find allergies and mucous increase here too. To support, we will give the digestive system a rest - to ease removal of toxins.

A mono diet with Kitchari is recommended but you can also swap for soups and purees. The warming and grounding spices helps our Agni stay strong while we remove excessive waste. Kitchari tends to be a complete protein because of the rice and beans; therefore you won’t be fully down during this cleanse (unlike other cleanses). The nervous system also will have a break - as you regulate digestion, and incorporate anti-inflammatory herbs; it has time to reset and reconnect back in with the other functions of the body.

A cleanse helps us reset the systems as well as remove toxins and excessive gunk in the body. This helps with digestion, energy, mood, skin, hair and more! If you suffer from burn out, anxiety, stress, skin issues, hair loss or digestive issues - an Ayurvedic cleanse can help you.

To optimize the cleanse, you would eliminate alcohol, caffeine, dairy, processed sugar, gluten and eventually meats; leading up for a few days before and after. Eating Kitchari for breakfast, lunch and dinner for at least 3 days (7 if you want a deeper cleanse); will keep you nourished, while supporting your body.

Cleansing in spring is powerful, because this truly is a time of rebirth. Aside from physical, you will be invited through contemplation, slowing down and going inward to release and break old cycles. Through setting new intentions of rebirth for yourself, you will have an opportunity to say goodbye to the parts of you (including limiting beliefs) that no longer serve you.

During a cleanse like this - we recommend downtime. Move slow through your day - start earlier. Create sacred time (extra if you already do this); for meditation, reflection and journaling. Movement can be gentle; but avoid high intensity work outs. Do the cleanse in a timeframe in which you do not need to be heavily involved in social outings (including business meetings).

Side effects will vary per person. There will be some typical symptoms like any cleanse, as the toxins die off and move through the body. It is important to stay hydrated and drink warm fluids to support this process. You can expect headaches, digestive upsets, additional rest and some skin purging. However, in extreme cases - you may want to stop and consult a physician. Because cleanses bring up the “old” ; you also may want to schedule a session with a therapist or a support guide, like an Ayurvedic practitioner or doctor.

It is always recommended to consult with a health care professional before beginning any cleanse.

If you want to join the 7 Day Spring Reset with us - sign up here!