sleep well

First of all, before we begin, let me rewind to the beginning of this year. I don’t know about you, but I started this year, excited yet physically tired and emotionally drained. In today’s post I would like to share with you a new habit I am developing which makes a massive difference to my sense of well being and energy levels.

Recap

Like most of you, I have a family, and juggle the many demands on my time. Trying to find time to care for myself, took second place to everything else going on in my life. My divorce came through the end of last year and my ex finally moved out. Much as I appreciate the space, freedom and ease from those two events, the last few years of trying to hold the ship together, being there for my girls, putting a brave face on for my parents and trying to sustain motivation and energy for my business took its toll.

Over Christmas I felt the fullness of what I was holding in-coming out.

However, this year, I am determined to put self-care fully on my agenda. I know the difference high energy levels make to my life and with my 50th birthday approaching at the end of this year, I am determined to greet 50, smiling and in fine form.

Lack Of Sleep Was Killing Me

I am blessed by good friends and I remember off-loading to my dear friend Marcia at the beginning of the year about how drained and tired I was and how little sleep I got. I moaned that if only I could be in bed by 11.00pm at the latest I would feel better, have more energy to wake up early, do my daily practice and feel more in control of work and on top of the housework – instead of burning the midnight oil and being on my laptop-writing/blogging, twittering or reading/responding to emails till past 1.00pm.

Marcia just looked at me and said:

“Do It. All you have to do is “switch-off your laptop, say goodnight to your girls and go to bed”.

It sounds so simple yet the mode I was in, meant I couldn’t “just do it”. I was on some kind of mad merry-go-round (my default mode of coping with stress is to get extra busy and I have to consciously make myself slow down) and the thought of letting go –of what I am not sure-seem too much a hurdle. Yet the more I thought about it, the more I appreciated the simplicity of Marcia’s advice.

Like you, I read a lot of spiritual and personal development books and know the inner and outer game we play with ourselves. I know the value of sleep, I know how to get a good night’s sleep yet I wasn’t doing it. Looking back, I was relying on my yogic training and skills to carry me through each day, yet without making time to rest, and replenish my system I was effectively living on borrowed air and denying myself the right to naturally rest and feel revived each day.

What Did I Do?

To get myself back in routine on:

Friday 6th February 2012 I set myself the goal of being in bed by 11.00pm.

I initially aimed to do this for 21 days – as an experiment.

We are now coming to the end of February and I am pleased to report for the last 50 days, give or take a few late nights, I am generally in bed by 11pm. YES!!!!

It may sound real simple and obvious to you, yet for me, aiming to be in bed by 11.00pm and actually working out a routine to do that has been an interesting experience. I am a creature of habit, and there are certain habits I have adopted over the years-some good and some not-so productive, which meant I struggled with Marcia’s simple advice. So, for me, just aiming to be upstairs and in bed by 11.00pm has had a major impact on my daily routine and how I am now aspire to work and live my life.

My ultimate goal is to be in bed between 10.00-10.30pm.

Do You Have Trouble Getting A Good Night’s Sleep?

Once I am asleep I always sleep well yet I know, from chatting with friends and my yoga students, a lot of you have trouble falling asleep and getting a good night’s sleep.

If you are disciplined and always in bed by 11.00pm or earlier, then I take my hat off to you. Please share your secrets in the comment box below!

However, if you have trouble getting a good night’s sleep, switching off, or know someone who is a poor sleeper, the next few posts are just for you. I will share with you some simple yogic strategies and natural sleeping tips you can use to help you sleep well and wake up refreshed and revived. I hope you enjoy these posts. If you are not on my email list, I’d love you to subscribe and receive all future postings straight away.

In the meantime, have a restful day and sleep well tonight!

Image, with thanks, by madeleine via flickrr.com

in harmony with God

Last week’s poem, “where is god?” touched upon my sense of abandonment, fear of life and distrust of god as I mourned the loss of my brother and cousin.

Today’s poem, is a totally different vibe. I have come full circle and know Spirit is alive and kicking. I proudly walk with God and see his/her divine manifestation in all forms of life. These days, my faith is strong. The pull to be and stay aligned and in the flow is powerful and I’m so glad for the darkness and sadness of the past, for it has made me a stronger, more faithful soul.

Worry, debt and crap still run through my life, yet as Simba says “I laugh in the face of danger”. I am secure and connected to a “force” that flows from deep within and guides my every thought, words and deeds. In that vein, I find it easier just to breathe, trust and be. I trust you are well and wish you every blessing on your journey. Take heart, relax and breathe in the essence of In Harmony With God.

In Harmony With God

I am the wave within the ocean of your love, the core of the apple you pick from the tree, the grain of sand covering the Kalahari Desert, the whispering of air transcending the stormy sea, carrying your light, your flame of desire to transcend, rest, breathe and be.

May the sun shine and bless all you do.
Namaste

Ntathu

********
And if you enjoyed this post, feel to write your insights and thoughts in the comment box below and forward to your friends and loved ones. And remember I am here to serve and support you be the best you came to be. Thank you.

image..with thanks by carefull back to winter via flickrr.com

energise your body

Today, I would like to introduce you to seven simple yoga poses you can do at home to help care for your body as you detox.

Before we begin, let’s do a brief recap.

For the past few weeks, my blog posts have focused on the benefits of detoxing and ways yoga can help you break unhealthy eating habits, so you feel healthier, more alive and well. We looked at the importance and benefits of going on a detox, three common mistakes to avoid whilst detoxing, different types of the Liver Flush drink and how to choose the right detox programme for you.

When I first thought of the “yoga detox” theme, I didn’t realise how much you need to know to have a positive detox experience. The relationship between what we eat, how we eat, what, when and where and the effect on your body and health, is a fascinating subject. I hope this mini series has wet your appetite (bun intended:)) to find out more about how you can improve your sense of well-being through yoga and your diet.

Seven Simple Yoga Poses To Gently Cleanse And Refresh Your Body

I have chosen the following seven yoga detox poses as they are basic yoga poses, don’t require any special equipment and you can easily do then anywhere you have a clear floor space..even on your bed if you don’t have a quiet space!

When Is The Best Time To Do These Yoga Exercises?

Ideally, first thing in the morning is the best time to stretch, cleanse and mobilise the body. If you are pushed for time, it is better to choose one or two of the poses and spend 3-5 minutes to relax, focus, enjoy the stretches and feel good about yourself, rather than skip the routine or worse-rush mindlessly though them.

Warning!

Although the seven poses are easy to do, please consult your Doctor if you have any underlying medical conditions. Take your time when you practice this simple yoga sequence. Listen to your body and remain soft in the poses as you breathe slowly and deeply into the base of your spine.

The routine is designed to stretch and tone, stimulate and balance and increase flexibility of the spine, back and ribs; and cleanse and massage the internal organs responsible for healthy digestion.

Yoga works from the inside out, so even if you are not on a detox, and have no inclination whatsoever of doing one, give the poses a go. You will be pleasantly surprised at how rejuvenated and motivated you feel, which may even kick-start you into thinking about trying a day detox.

OK, let’s start…

1. Easy Seated Pose

Easy Seated Pose

First of all I encourage you to start the sequence by sitting in a comfortable seated position, take a deep breath in and out through your nostrils. Slowly notice what you notice about your thoughts and sensations in your body as you allow your thoughts to settle. In this space, give thanks for your health and set your intention for a wholesome and nurturing practice.

2. Cat Pose.

cat pose

Kneel on all fours with your arms straight and your back parallel to the floor (like a tabletop). Breathe in, lift your head and allow your waist to lower towards the floor. Keep your arms strong and straight. Hold this position for 3 – 5 breaths then slowly hunch your back and let your head relax down and gaze between your knees. Keep your palms flat on the floor and arms strong as you try to get your chin towards the top of your chest. Stay in this position for 3 – 5 breaths and slowly return your body back to centre with a flat back. Repeat the movement 3-5 times, then position yourself yourself for the Downward Dog Pose.

3. Downward Facing Dog.

Downward Facing Dog

From Cat Pose, keep your hands pressed flat against the floor beneath your shoulders. Tuck your toes under and breathe in. As you breathe out, lift your hips and stretch your legs, keeping your heels down. Keep pressing your palms into the floor. Relax your shoulders but keep your arms strong. Stay in this position for 3 – 7 breaths. Slowly come out of the pose and return to the Cat Pose and then rest in the Child Pose.

4. The Child Pose.

Child Pose

Sit on your heels and stretch your arms in front of you to open your shoulders. Rest your forehead on the floor. Relax your face and rest your eyes. Gently breathe for 3 -5 rounds of deep yogic breathing. Slowly place your hands by your side with the palms upwards. Breathe gently and relax.

5. Two Knee Lying Spinal Twist

Two Knee Twist

Lie flat on your back and rest the soles of your feet flat on the floor, your knees bent up. Slowly, bring your bent knees to your chest and place your arms out to your side, at shoulder height. Breathe out and keeping both knees together, twist your knees and hips to the right side as you turn your head to the other. Place your right hand on your knees and gently focus on breathing deeply in to the base of your spine and through your ribcage. Take 3-5 rounds of deep breathing. Exhale, right your head and knees to the centre. Rest for 3-5 breaths on your back, noticing what you notice, then repeat this twist on the opposite side. Return your body to the centre and hug your knees to your chest.

6. Hug Knees to Chest.

Lie on your back and slowly hug your knees to your chest. Keep your head flat on the floor and gently breathe as you squeeze your knees toward your chest. If you feel comfortable, gracefully lift your tail bone up from the floor as your hug your knees. Take 3 – 7 rounds of steady breaths. Sometimes it helps to gently make small circles with your knees or roll along your spine this pose. Slowly return your feet back to the floor.

7. Savasana.

Savasana-the Corpse Pose

End your session with the best yoga pose – Savasana. Lie on your back with your legs stretched out straight along the floor. Have your arms a few inches from your side, palms up. Tuck your chin in and make sure your lower back is comfortable; you can place a small cushion under your knees to support your back if necessary. Close your eyes and allow your whole body to relax. Stay in this position for 3 – 5 minutes. Slowly stretch your body, roll over to your side and take 3 gentle breathes before coming up to a seated position.

Smile! How Do You Feel?

I’d love to know how you feel after practising this yoga sequence. Share your thoughts and sensations in the comment box below and if you would like to receive more yoga tips and suggestions to reduce stress, and feel healthier, subscribe to my email list and I would be delighted to support you feel healthier and well.

Feel free to share this post with loved ones and friends and to follow me over at Twitter and join in the thriving community tweets.

Stay blessed and thanks for being you.

Images, with thanks: Easy Seated Pose, Cat Pose, Child Pose, Savanasa from myyogaonline, Two Knee Spinal Twist from myyogaonline and Downward Dog from Mr Thamas, all via flickrr.com

where is god?

The weekly poem or prayer is offered to stimulate thought and to uplift and remind you of the sacredness of life. If you have a poem or favourite prayer you wish to share with our community, I’d be pleased to feature it in future posts. Simply send it to me. Thank you.

As mentioned in my recent post sometimes I struggle to sit and meditate as the pain inside is too deep.

Today’s poem, “where is god?” reflects what happens when I allow myself to breathe, meditate and connect with this pain.

Following my cousin Sherry’s death (December, 1995) and then my brother’s in July 1997 life was hard and it was a sad time for me and my family. Writing was my release and many of the poems I share today were birthed during my sadness. It is through the grace of God, love and life that I am here today, sharing my story. “where is god?” is taken from my soon to be released book of grief poems-Returning Home to the healing waters of my Soul- as a symbol of hope and inspiration to others grieving.

where is god?
c. Ntathu Allen

This pain is too much. Too much for me to bear. I can’t go on. I don’t want to. I want to die. Oh yes. That sounds soooo good. Yeah. Just close my eyes curl up my body real tight and drift away. Away to a place where I don’t feel nothing. I ache. My chest is tight. I am gasping for breath. Bending down, picking toys up from the kitchen floor feels like someone is screwing a lighted poker through the knots etched in my back. I can’t go on. I am falling apart. Slowly, secretly slipping away. I just want to lie down and float away to a place where I can’t be found, questions asked, expectations to meet. I am so skinny. There is nothing to me. Just skin and bone. Good. I am half way there. I can’t go on. Can’t cover up the mistakes, the late court reports, the burnt dinner, pots and plates piled high in the kitchen sink, clothes over spilling from the linen basket, mountains of tissues by my bedside. I just don’t care no more. Had enough of this life. Of living. Of existing this illusion. Happily married-mother-of-three-successful-career and all that. It is just too much. And there’s gaping hole. A void. A vacuum of emptiness filled with ice engulfing my heart. Brutalising my being. Annihilating my memory of times gone by. I am a statue, frozen solid in and out. Pungent gases blocked inside. I am gonna give up on life. No point in carrying on. God is gone. Brother’s gone, parents away, husband wrapped up in his own misery, children too much for me. Where is god? Where is he? Why has he left me in this 2 up 2 down god-forsaken property?

*****

If you are struggling with the loss of a loved one, I hope you find comfort and calm in your sorrow. It is easy and if you have experience of grief and care to share your journey, I’d love you to write your thoughts in the comment box below. If you are a new reader, welcome. Remember to come back and visit again, or better still, subscribe to my email list and receive posts as soon as they are posted.

Thank you

Stay blessed and know the power of love transcends all sorrows.

image-with thanks Feggy Art via flickrr.com

delightful food

Following our Valentine’s Day detour, we return to our mini-series-looking at the therapeutic and health benefits of a detox. Yoga is all about returning your body and mind to that quiet natural space inside and a detox is one of the best ways to bring your body back into alignment.

In today’s post, we look seven steps you need to take to ensure you have a positive and enjoyable detox.

When I first started this series, I didn’t realise just how involved I would get into the subject. It seems the more I write about detoxing, the more I realise just how much information there is to share. That’s why I love yoga. Its way more than a series of exercises! You scrape off one layer and then there is more underneath.

What Is A Detox?

The purpose of a detox is to give your body a chance to rest, re-balance and cleanse. A detox helps to remove toxins from your body, and gives your vital organs and digestive system a chance to rest and rejuvenate.

Detoxing Is Scary!

It can be quite frightening to think about going on a detox – especially if your normal diet consists of fast foods, caffeine, snacking and eating on the run. I’m “so busy at times” that I often end up snacking and eat-on-the-run, so I know how challenging it is to make the time to sit down and eat without allowing myself to be distracted.

It is easy to go to bed, feeling bloated, and wake up sluggish and say “right today I am going to detox” yet the reality is, to complete a detox, you need to prepare –emotionally, spiritually and physically.

A Detox Is A Life-Affirming Journey

A detox is more than going without food for a few days. It is a life affirming experience and a chance for you to reconnect, nourish, replenish and slow down the pace of your life. I know from experience, I have made many attempts to detox or do a mini cleanse yet within a day or so, I feel peckish, life takes over and I lose motivation to continue. So, to avoid you making the mistakes I made in the past, here are seven guidelines to help you have a carefree and happy detox.

If you have never detoxed before, it is important you consider the following seven points before you start. This will ensure you are physically and mentally prepared to get your detox off to a good start.

How to Detox in Seven Easy Steps

1. How do you feel about your body and how you would like to feel at the end of your detox?

Do you feel overweight, sluggish, always tired, flat and fed-up? Do you want to feel rested? Calmer? Cleaner? Stronger? Keep an open mind and during your detox hold your body intention in your heart every time you are tempted to stray from your programme.

2. Be creative.

A detox gives you a chance to eat foods which you may not usually eat. For instance, as a child I “hated” celery, but during my first detox I developed a taste for celery and it now forms a part of my regular diet. I encourage you to use the space to try different types of fruit, vegetables and herbal teas.

3. Decide in advance how long you wish to detox.

If it is your first detox then maybe a one day detox might be enough for you. Motivation plays a major part in sticking with your decision, so choose a length of time which you can fit comfortably around your daily schedule. Maybe a weekend when your children are away or during a quieter period at work, would be an ideal time for you.

4. Keep your heart and mind open.

Be a witness to all that is going on inside your body. Notice what you notice. You may experience a slight headache; feel dizzy, tired or even weepy as your mind and body adjust to your cleansing diet – especially if this is your first detox.

5. Keep a journal and record your thoughts, emotions and inspirations.

A detox offers you a wonderful way to explore your relationship with food, the way you eat, what you eat and why. This may be the first time you consciously eat foods to cleanse and re-balance your energy. Use your journal to record your inner world.

6. The new you.

Write in your journal the changes you are making in the way you eat, if it feels right and something you want to continue after the detox as part of your healthier lifestyle, do so – maybe you would like to start your regular day off with a slice of lemon and hot water instead of your usual coffee or cup of tea.

7. Invite a few friends or your partner to join you on your detox.

You can encourage and inspire each other and share your experiences. Any journey is easier with a friend. The best way I have found to detox is with a buddy or as part of a group. My first proper detox was the first module of a 12 month Personal and Spiritual Development Course I did in 2000 with my teacher, Shola Arewa. Throughout the detox we shared our experiences which helped to encourage and keep us accountable to each other.

Detoxing isn’t easy, but by following the above seven steps I hope your next detox is an enjoyable and positive experience.

To Recap

A detox is a commitment you make to yourself. It offers you an opportunity to explore your relationship with food and to cleanse, rejuvenate and re-balance your body.

So far in this mini yoga detox series, we have looked at a range of topics to inform and inspire you to detox, from looking at the seven benefits of going on a detox;
, the three common mistakes to avoid when detoxing and even tried our hand at making the Liver Flush Drink and Herbal Tea for radiant beauty and clearer skin.

Thanks for sharing this journey. Take your time and enjoy the experience. If you have done a detox, I’d love to know how you got on. Feel free to share your comments in the box below and if you have friends who you feel will benefit from this healthy information, simple click and share this post via your favourite social media icons below.

Final Thoughts

There are two final topics within this area I would like to share with you – yoga detox poses and herbs and foods you can use whilst detoxing. Sign up to my email list to ensure you receive these posts. In the meantime, remember how special and marvellous you are as we all strive to be Healthier in 2012.

Image-with thanks-DigitalWallpapers via flickrr.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHFDa9efCQU

On this day of Love, I would like to take a mini break from our current series of looking at how yoga helps detox and cleanse your body and share a little bit about my relationship with food and my body.

My Food Story

It freaks me out when people say “oh, its OK for you, you’re a yoga teacher, of course you are calm, eat well and exercise.”

No way. And as for being calm all the time…my daughters will gladly tell you otherwise:)

Like you, I have hang-ups about my body image and over the years have gone from near starvation diets to gorging and stuffing myself. These days I am glad to say I am reaching a happy medium where my relationship with food is one of love as I strive to nurture my core and look at ways how I can use foods to serve my desire for growth and fulfilment. I still have a long way to go, but am happy with the choices I make and even on days when I mindlessly snack or eat foods which I know don’t agree with me…its OK. I don’t fret. I just treat it as it and bless it anyway.

It’s All Yoga…

its all good

As for practising yoga, again, some people have this image that all I do is either teach yoga or sit on my mat and meditate all day. I would love to do that. Yet, the reality is I’ve gone for days, weeks even when I stare at my yoga mat yet lack energy, desire, motivation-call it what you like- lack of discipline, self-care, laziness- and can’t be bothered to practice.

Or, on other days, I’ll muster up the energy, sit and meditate, stretch a little and may even do a few rounds of yoga breathing exercises, yet all the while, I know I am just going through the motions, paying lip service to what is going on inside.

Sometimes the pain is too much…

Sometimes, I avoid practice because the pain inside feels too raw, too close to the surface to connect with. I am scared what I will find if “I go there”. Other times, this is because I am in superdoppa busy mode and so out of alignment, the mere thought of sitting or practicing yoga freaks me out and I say to myself, “I am too busy, tired, stressed-out” to sit and pray—so I don’t and rush out to my next assignment, only to be stuck in traffic for half an hour, or miss my train as I fumble to top-up my Oyster card and can’t find my purse or change in my maze of a handbag.

You Are Not Alone

If you can identify with the above, or feel you will never master the art of meditation and yoga seems totally alien to you, don’t worry. It’s OK. I have come to realise, appreciate and embrace these days as I now know when I get through, I shine and radiate and then, time spent in daily practice is soooo sweet and blissful. As my baddest yogi buddy Lo, say’s “its all yoga baby”.

Romance Your Soul

And on this Day of Love. Remember to take it easy, romance your soul don’t worry, be happy. Pause a while in between the busyness of your day to smile, look in the mirror and say to yourself “I Love You”.

Take care, breathe and have a Marvellous Life!

And, if you are new here, feel free to subscribe to my email list to instantly receive more yoga updates and news.

Thank you

And remember, to share the love and feel free to share your thoughts and observations about self love and happiness in the comment box below.

Hugs and Blessings.
Ntathu

image, with thanks Synergby Jasmine via flickrr

Giving Thanks

The last few weeks I have recommitted on a much deeper level to my daily spiritual practice and as such I am spending more time alone, in prayer and silence.

I am making a conscious effort to stick with certain “self-care principles” which feel great. I love the space and sense of connection and peace flowing through yet at times, especially when back in the world and looking at my email inbox and my “worldly list of things to do”, I panic and feel that tug of “doing..doing..doing..rush..rush..rush..” creeping in. That’s when I have to breathe, smile and give thanks when the universe sends me an email via one of my earth-angel friends to gently remind me and give me permission to slow down, be gentle and take my own advise. Thanks Judith.

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Prayer of Thanks

Dear Father-God,

Thank you for your presence in my life. For your rich, abundance of light and joy and carefree heart. Thank you for my health, for sending angels and light angels to help me eat well and nourish myself from the inside out.

Thank you for the ever flowing sense of ease manifesting – I feel so blessed, so happy and glad to breathe. Thank you for all that I AM and all that I am growing into be.

===

I wish you and everyone dear to your heart, a peaceful weekend.

Feel free to tell your friends about this week’s prayer and share it via your favourite social media icon below. I always appreciate hearing your personal reflections about the power of prayer in your daily life, let’s continue to share, support and encourage each other.

In peace.

Image–with thanks xerones, via flickrr

Continuing in our theme of looking at how you can cleanse your body through natural foods and yoga, today I would like to share with you an easy detox technique-the Liver Flush. This is a detox technique I use to cleanse and purify myself from the inside out.

The Liver Flush is great to boost and cleanse your system, especially at this time of the year, when your energy and vitality levels are low and you struggle to maintain your New Year Healthier and Fitter You resolutions.

If you are feeling sluggish, demotivated and your system in need of a cleanse, the Liver Flush, may well be the detox technique you need to motivate and kick-start your desire for a Healthier 2012

In today’s post, I will share with you the basics of the Liver Flush and in later posts we can go into a bit more detail and look at what foods you can eat and yoga poses to include whilst on the Liver Flush. Who knows, we could even end up doing an on-line Liver Flush together! Food for thought. First things first, what is The Liver Flush and what can it do for you to feel healthier and clearer?

The Liver Flush

The Liver Flush drink is something which I am the first to admit takes a while to get use to, yet if you can overcome your resistant to drinking olive oil, (a key ingredient in the liver flush) you will feel amazing after a day or so of following this simple purifying diet.

What is the Liver Flush?

I first came across the Liver Flush as part of my teachings with my teacher, Shola Arewa. It was 2000 and I was part of a group of eager women participating in a 12 months Personal and Spiritual Development Course. During the first meeting, Shola announced we would spend the first part of the programme on a detox-including a Liver Flush to help prepare us-physically, spiritually and emotionally for the year ahead. At the time, I remembered grimacing and thinking “I aint doing that…what’s that..that sounds harsh…” I had thought of us sticking tubes and other objects into our liver as well as our bottoms! But, as the day progressed, I realised the Liver Flush – and accompanying diet plan-was simply a mixture of everyday ingredients – ranging from ginger, olive oil, garlic, grapefruits, apples and lemons, blended together and drank first thing in the morning, followed by the Liver Flush Herbal Tea and mindfully eating natural and wholesome foods during the rest of the day.

If you are thinking you would like to try this cleanse, I would say, just try the Liver Flush drink for a couple of days, see how you get on and then, try it again when you are ready to do a more in depth detox, details of which I’ll share with you in later posts.

What Does The Liver Flush Do?

The purpose of the Liver Flush, is to help flush waste out of the system and stimulate and lubricate the digestive organs. It is an alkaline diet designed for elimination and internal cleansing. After a couple days drinking the Liver Flush, especially if you incorporate it into a full detox programme, eating raw, wholesome and natural foods, you will notice just how huge, moist and smooth your bowel movements are!

There are numerous versions of the Liver Flush available. This particular version is based on the teachings of Dr Stone and further details can be found in my Polarity Therapy teacher’s book -Polarity Therapy-The Power That Heals by Phil Young. More information about Polarity Therapy can be found here.

As you know, your lymphatic and circulatory system, as well as your liver, kidneys and bowels help to eliminate the build up of toxins and bacteria which accumulate in the body. The best time to take the Liver Flush drink is first thing in the morning as it helps to cleanse and flush out the system.

What Ingredients Do You Need For The Liver Flush

There are various versions of the Liver Flush drink you can use:

The Basic Liver Flush

As far as I’m concerned the Basic Liver Flush is gross and takes some getting used to! For this you need

1-5 Tbsp. Cold-pressed virgin olive oil
3 times as much lime or lemon juice

Simply stir or blend these ingredients and swallow! Follow it with two cups of warm water mixed with the juice of one lime or lemon or the Liver Flush Herbal Tea (see below)

A more palatable Liver Flush, the one which we used in our course consists of:

Juice of 2-3 oranges or grapefruit
4-6 tablespoons of lemon or lime juice
2-3 tablespoons of cold-pressed olive oil or sesame oil
1-3 cloves of crushed garlic (optional)

Blend, stir, mix and drink…follow this flush by drinking warm water mixed with the juice of one lemon or the Herbal Flush Liver Tea (see below).

Even More Tastier Liver Flush

If you are feeling this is still too bland, (and garlicky!) for an even more tastier version, try this

2 0z Orange juice
2 0z Grapefruit juice
2 oz Pineapple juice
1-5 Tbsp. Olive oil.

Stir, mix or blend and drink. Follow this with two cups of hot water and the juice of one lemon or the Liver Flush Herbal Tea (see below)

Whether you drink the basic Liver Flush or the more tastier version using pineapples, grapefruits or orange, the Liver Flush is followed by the Liver Flush Herbal Tea or a cup of hot water and juice of a lemon or lime.

Herbal Liver Flush Tea

Boil three cups of hot water and add 2-5 slices of thinly sliced fresh ginger root. Boil for several minutes then add, 1 tsp of liquorice root, 1 tsp fennel seed, 1 tsp fenugreek seeds and 1 tsp peppermint leaves.

Let this seep and sip slowly after taking your Liver Flush drink. What I like to do is keep this mixture topped up and sip throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

Well, what do you think? Do you think you could give the Liver Flush and Liver Flush Herbal tea a go?

Next time you go to the supermarket, take this list with you and buy the ingredients.

Set aside one or two days next week and instead of your usual breakfast try the Liver Flush drink and Liver Flush Herbal tea. Just take your time, ease the practice into your day and find out for yourself how easy/hard/difficult it is. Sometimes, you just need to make small adjustments to your day to feel healthier and look more gorgeous.

I’d love to know what you think of the Liver Flush. Is it something you can see yourself doing? And what do you think about my idea for us to do a group on-line detox? Feel free to share your thoughts, comments and suggestions in the comment box below. Thank you.

If you enjoyed this post and feel your friends would benefit from knowing this information, click and share via your favourite social media icon below and; stay tuned for the rest of this mini yoga detox series, where we will be looking at what foods you can eat if you wish to take the Liver Flush one step further.

Remember, the more time you take to care for yourself, the more energy you have to be positive and productive at work and enjoy fun time with your family.

Images-with thanks by Ruta&Zinas and Jazzijava – all via flickrr.com

moon light

The Ascendant
c. Ntathu 2012

Let us dance together through the moon lit sky
Through the tropics of Cancer, Capricorn and conjunct on the Venus Star
let us lie together, as one upon the crescent moon
And witness the glory of creation adorn another day.

Let our vigour, passion for life, fuel all desires
as we aspire to be all we came to be and, more
Let the power of Attraction, the Secret encased within, unite our Souls
as we plough the fertile lands.

Let the glory, the early morning sun, rise and greet the passions within
as we partake of the juice of Life ~
the yin and the yang, forging as One
to unravel and lay bare upon the essence of the Earth.

*********************************************************

I wish you a peaceful and joyful day. Take special care of your heart. And remember to share the love by clicking your favourite social media icon below.

Thank you.

image-with thanks kuzceytac, via flickrr

relax at a yoga detox retreat

This is a series of posts looking at how you can cleanse your body through a yoga detox programme.

If you are thinking about going on a yoga detox retreat or holiday today’s post is just for you. With so many detox programmes on offer how do you know which one really works and is the right one for you?

In today’s post, we look at five key questions you need to ask yourself before choosing your destination. Later posts in this series will look at different yoga poses to support your detox and tips to help you set up your own DIY home detox experience:)

Generally, most people make the initial search for a detox programme retreat online.

This can be a bewildering experience, especially if you are not sure what to look for or what to expect on your detox retreat. Wjith so many yoga holidays and detox retreats on offer, how do you decide what one works for you? If you do a quick Google search, hundreds of detox programmes, spa holidays and yoga detox retreats will come up. Unless you know what you are looking for it can be overwhelming to choose the “right” programme for you. Nothing is worse than spending your money and time stuck in some far-off place surrounded by people you don’t connect with and eating foods which you dislike. To avoid this make sure you follow these five steps.

Why Go On A Yoga Detox Retreat/Holiday

Looking after yourself and doing what you can to feel healthier, happier and more productive is important to you yet with so many demands on your time, making time to care for yourself is often last on your to-do list. If you are still feeling sluggish, overweight and bloated from overeating over Christmas then a yoga detox programme may be just the thing you need to feel lighter and have more energy at the end of the day.

A detox holiday gives you a chance to switch-off, rest and reconnect as you take a step back from your usual eating habits and give your system a chance to cleanse and embrace a more meaningful relationship with food.

What Is A Detox?

If you have never gone on a detox or mini cleanse you are probably wondering what all the fuss is about. You might even think of a detox as some sort of “punishment” or even as a quick-fix lose weight solution.

Although you do lose weight when you detox, from a yogic perspective, the true purpose of detox or a fast is to rest and cleanse the body of the build up of toxins which accumulate in the body; which then brings a sense of balance and harmony to your system. Most of my yoga students experience the fullness of a detox when on a yoga retreat or yoga holiday. As a yogi you see your body as a temple and the foods you eat and the way you eat as part of your food sadhana (spiritual practice) to nurture and nourish your spirit.

If you feel going on a yoga detox retreat is something you would like to experience, here are five steps to help you choose the right programme for you. Different yoga detox holidays, offer different packages depending on what you are looking for.

Five Steps To Help You Choose The Right Programme For You

1. How Healthy Are You?

This has to be your starting point in deciding what sort of detox programme is most suitable for you. Look at your body, how healthy are you? Do you know how healthy you are? Do you know all the theory about healthy living, yet don’t have the time or energy for self care? Are you stressed, exhausted, looking for a complete body MOT? Or are you looking for a few days peace and quiet away from the demands of your family and work to rest and chill-out with your girls-friends? Maybe you want a bit of both? Do you have any underlying or current medical/health conditions which need addressing?

If you are seriously overweight, regularly eat highly processed, refined fatty foods, smoke and drink alcohol, then you may find the rigors and structure of a Yoga Detox Retreat difficult to manage; whereas a Yoga Spa Holiday offers you a gentler introduction into yoga and detoxing.

Tip:

Take time to read about the different types of yoga detox/spa holidays available.

Choose a detox holiday or retreat programme which offers you individualised health assessments, nutritional advice and lifestyle consultations as part of their package. Find out what follow-up support the organisers offer and whether they give you take-away tips and suggestions to maintain your health once you leave the programme.

Remember a Yoga Detox Retreat offers you a chance to go deeper into your yoga and meditation practice or explore new yogic practices, whereas a Yoga Detox/Spa Holiday generally caters for beginners or people looking to find out more about yoga as part of a healthier lifestyle. Whether you go for a yoga detox retreat or yoga spa holiday check what other therapies and treatments are available and whether they are included as part of the overall costs.

2. What Treatments Are On Offer?

Ideally, a detox holiday offers you the opportunity to experience a wide range of healthy living and therapeutic treatments to nurture your mind, body and soul. Most will include a range of other complementary therapies and treatments as part of the programme.

Tip:

Find out what treatment and therapies are included in the programme. Some retreats offer you a complementary treatment and then you have to pay for any other treatments you have. If it’s all inclusive, find out how flexible the programme is and whether you can choose to participate in, for example, early morning yoga and meditation classes. Some places “insist” you take part in all group programmes whereas others allow you to pick and choose what you want to do and when to do it.

Always ask what qualifications and experience the therapists have. All therapists should have appropriate professional insurance cover.

3. What Foods Will Be Served?

There are various ways to detox the body from complete 3-7 days fasting; juice only meals to more relax whole foods healthy eating plans. Some retreats offer you a choice of options, some serve only juices, vegan and raw foods, whereas a yoga spa holiday may offer you a range of other meal options and approaches to eating. Alcohol, meat and smoking are generally not allowed on a yoga detox retreat.

Tip:

Find out exactly what food options are on offer. Talk with the organisers; see how much flexibility they offer re foods served. Do they offer you a choice of menus or is there a strict program to follow. Also, find out what advice they offer to help you prepare your body for the detox and how to end the detox and reintroduce you to “regular eating habits.”

If, for example you are a diabetic check how they cater for special medical conditions, allergies and cultural food preferences.

Find out if the programme includes nutritional workshops and classes on how to prepare meals once you return home and maintain your healthier eating options.

4. How Inviting Is The Detox Retreat? Location Is Everything

If you are searching online for a yoga detox programme this gives you a chance to have a look at different options and facilities. Things to consider are your budget, do you wish to travel overseas and maybe combine the detox with a family holiday, or are you happy staying in your home country. Check out the location. Ideally, you want to be in a tranquil, natural and peaceful environment.

Accommodation is another important factor. Consider whether you want a luxurious 5 star resort hotel with everything laid on, or a more intimate cosy environment.

If you are searching for a more “spiritual environment”, then check out an ashram. The lifestyle of an ashram is ideal for reconnecting with your body, eating well and experiencing the fullness of yoga and meditation.

As you browse the websites, things to think about are easy is it for you to navigate the site, do they offer you the options discussed in this post? How simple is it for you to contact the organisers and when you do, are they professional, warm, responsive to your questions and preferences. Some websites offer you a virtual tour of the centre. Again, depending on what type of experience you are seeking, check what wifi/broadband options are available and how easy it is to get a signal and what amenities are available.

Tip:

Personal recommendation is always a good place to start; however, if none of your friends have gone on a yoga detox make sure you do your homework and trust your intuition. You can always forward your questions to me and I will be happy to share what I know.

5. Be Open

This may sound vague and wishy-washy yet at the end of the day, investing your time and energy on a yoga detox is a natural progression in your personal and spiritual journey. In yoga you are encouraged to trust the process, to surrender and allow goodness to flow. Taking time out of your busy schedule to nurture neglected parts of your being is essential to your sense of wellbeing and fulfillment. When you are well, you are able to be more and give more to your family and business.

Tip:

Deep down your body knows what it needs, so trust the process and know that everything you experience whilst choosing your yoga detox retreat is all good and part of your personal growth and desire to grow stronger and healthier.

To Recap.

In this mini series we have looked at the benefits of going on a detox and discussed three common mistakes you make when you detox. Today’s post highlighted five key factors to consider if you are looking to go on a detox retreat.

Further posts in this mini Yoga Detox series will cover specific yoga poses to support your detox and tips and suggestions how to organise your own DIY home detox, what foods to eat and what foods to avoid will also be covered. If you are a new visitor, kindly subscribe to my email list to instantly receive your copy of future posts as soon as it is published.

Final Thoughts

If you have been on a yoga detox holiday what tips can you share which made your experience memorable and enjoyable. I’d love to hear your thoughts and inspirations, share them in the comment box below.

I’d also love you too share the love and spread the healthy news by clicking the Twitter link below. Be well and remember how marvellous you are. Thank you.

Image-with thanks 05com via flickerr