Spring has sprung… well hopefully it will soon! Spring is a time of transition, both externally with the seasonal shift and internally as our bodies naturally cleanse and detoxify. You may notice yourself itching to clean, eat lighter meals, and exercise, which are all manifestations of this transition. This newsletter will provide information about the basic principles of detoxification, 5 ways to get active this season, a spring smoothie recipe and upcoming seminar information. Enjoy!
5 ways to get active this spring
With the weather about to warm up, our bodies are desperate for sunshine and our muscles are craving movement. Here are some simple tips to achieve both of these this season:
1. Go for a walk Whether you go around the block or find a beautiful trail, walking is an excellent form of exercise that the whole family can enjoy together. My husband, our dog Buddy and I were excited to have some sunshine for a few on our walks this week.
2. Park at a distance When you are heading to the grocery store, mall, or event, park away from the entrance to give yourself the extra steps.
3. Take the stairs Rather than taking the escalator or elevator, contract your quadriceps and gluteus maximus muscles and step up!
4. Dig up your Wheels Dust off your rollerblades and bicycle to get them ready for the season. You may have to choose your paths wisely to prevent mud splatter, but sidewalks are drying up as we speak. Cut back on gasoline as your body fuels your travels and gain in energy and cardiovascular health, it’s a win-win!
5. Join a fitness class Whether you prefer outdoors or indoors, there are classes all around Barrie for you! The fitness centres in Barrie, the RunningRoom and various bootcamp programs are all excellent avenues for making exercise a fun and sociable part of your life.
Principles of Detoxification
Detoxification is a process that is happening all of the time in our bodies. We are exposed to toxins in the air we breathe, the environment around us and the food we eat. Luckily we have organs designed to support detoxification, with simple strategies that can help stimulate this process to limit the toxic burden on our bodies. Our LIVER filters blood and detoxifies chemicals and drugs, our INTESTINES eliminate fat soluble toxins through regular bowel movements, our KIDNEYS filter blood and remove waste through urination, our LUNGS exhale carbon dioxide and eliminate water soluble toxins, and our SKIN removes soluble toxins through sweat.It is important that all organs of detoxification are functioning before starting an intensive cleanse. Speak to your Naturopathic Doctor to evaluate your body and work together to develop and individualized detoxification program that’s right for you.
Spring smoothie
Smoothies are a great way to pack a punch in your breakfast routine. You can top up your nutrient stores with veggies and fruits and received sustained energy with the added protein all the while enjoying the taste!1 handful of spinach
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
½ cup frozen blueberries
½ cup frozen strawberries
1T of hemp seeds or flax seeds
1 scoop of protein powder
In Health,
Karen Snow, Naturopathic Doctor