Detox Survival Guide

After 7 years of guiding hundreds of students through detoxes, I've found there are a few keys to successfully completing a cleanse (and reaping all the awesome benefits of supercharged energy, weight loss, mental clarity, and so much more).

Whether you're joining us for the 10 day sugar detox, or considering a spring reset of your own, the following tips will be INVALUABLE for getting through to the other side a brighter, lighter and zestier version of yourself ; )

1. KNOW YOUR "WHY"

Whether it be to drop a few pounds, get rid of seasonal allergies, have more energy, or improve your digestion, get clear on your intention and post it somewhere as a reminder to stay on track.

2. PLAN AHEAD

This is a non-negotiable. Clear your schedule, make your meal plan, clean out your fridge, stock your kitchen, even book yourself a massage. Whatever you can do to set yourself up for success beforehand will pay off in leaps and bounds.

3. REMOVE TEMPTATION

Your environment is stronger than willpower. Avoid needing to use it (it rarely works). Instead, get the junk out of sight, out of the kitchen and eventually it will be out of mind once you've reset your cravings.

4. STAY HYDRATED

Most of us are walking around highly dehydrated and often confuse thirst for hunger. Sip lots of hot water throughout the day. If you crave something sweet, drink herbal tea with cinnamon (like Bengal spice or caffeine-free chai). Cinnamon stabilizes blood sugar and reduces sugar cravings.

5. EAT ENOUGH PROTEIN AND FAT

Protein and fat keep you satiated and help regulate blood sugar. There's no reason to torture yourself and feel hungry. Well-balanced meals will keep you full until your next clean meal.

6. MANAGE YOUR STRESS

95% of all diseases are either caused or made worse by stress. Stress increases cortisol, which causes sugar cravings (among other harmful effects). Try to include as many stress-reducing activities as possible such as deep breathing, exercise, meditation, hot baths, and walks in nature so your body can move from fight or flight into rest, digest and detox mode.

7. GET LOTS OF SLEEP

A lot of detoxing happens while while we're sleeping. Practice good sleep hygiene by winding down and unplugging at least 30 minutes before bed.

8. USE PEPPERMINT OIL FOR CRAVINGS

Peppermint is a natural appetite suppressant. It's also a great stress and tension reliever, improves mental focus and soothes upset tummies. Drink it in tea, diffuse it, or place a few drops in your palms, rub together and inhale deeply.

9. PRACTICE SELF CARE LIKE THE GODDESS YOU ARE

The best thing you can do for yourself in a detox is to give yourself plenty of downtime. Pamper yourself with a luxurious warm oil self-massage. Book in some body work. Be unabashedly selfish. Ask for what you need. Take a day off. Go to bed early. Your body is in full restoration mode - help it get the job done.

10. ABANDON PERFECTION

Embrace a solid B-. Don’t worry about doing it perfectly. Don’t feel guilty if you fall off the wagon for a meal or 2. Jump back in, recommit and most importantly be kind to yourself. Eliminate self-judgement and self-criticism for good.