Are you feeling tired & exhausted? You must detox, refresh, and renew your body, mind, and soul.

As autumn approaches, the world around us begins to change. The days grow shorter, the air turns crisp, and nature prepares for rest and renewal.

As the weather changes, now is the perfect time to concentrate on achieving inner balance. The transition from summer to fall provides an excellent opportunity to cleanse your body internally, shedding the accumulated heat and excess from the summer months and preparing for the cooler season ahead.

If you're wondering how to do that, we've prepared a guide for you. 

It explains what cleansing is, how to effectively cleanse your body, the best foods and herbs to support your cleanse, and the benefits you'll reap from this practice. 

What Is Cleansing?

Just like we do our face cleansing to remove dirt and other impurities, it's crucial to do internal cleansing. Eliminating accumulated toxins and impurities from the inside helps you reset and rejuvenate your system.

These toxins start building up in your system from continuous consumption of processed foods and other factors like environmental pollutants, stress, and an irregular lifestyle.

These toxins can lead to feelings of sluggishness, digestive issues, skin problems, and overall discomfort. A cleanse helps flush out these unwanted substances, restoring balance and vitality. 

Cleansing is not just about detoxing; it's about giving your body a break from its daily routine, allowing it to heal and recharge. During a cleanse, you focus on nourishing your body with wholesome, easy-to-digest foods, hydrating well, and incorporating herbs and practices that support detoxification.

How To Cleanse Your Body?

Cleansing your body requires a thoughtful approach, especially during the autumnal equinox, when the body is naturally inclined to let go of excess heat and accumulated toxins. Here are four phases of cleansing:

Preparation—The Initial Step

This phase involves cleaning up your diet and lifestyle to set the stage for a successful cleanse.

Active Cleansing—The Core Phase

During this stage, you’ll follow a mono diet consisting of grains, khichari (basmati rice cooked with split mung beans), vegetables, and ample detoxifying fluids. Complement this process with supportive lifestyle practices.

Reintroduction—A Gentle Transition

Gradually reintroduce a variety of simple, whole foods into your diet, easing your digestive system back into its routine. Start with foods other than khichari, and eventually add common allergens like wheat, dairy, and soy to your daily routine.

Rejuvenation—The Final Phase

This phase focuses on deeply nourishing your tissues and promoting overall rejuvenation. Though related to the cleanse, rejuvenation is a separate process and is more thoroughly covered in our Rejuvenation Department. 

In addition to this, here are some tips that can help you to start your cleansing journey.

Hydration

You must begin your day with warm water to flush out toxins. It is crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day to support your body's natural detox processes.

Eat Light, Nourishing Foods

Always opt for simple, warm meals like soups, stews, and steamed vegetables. These are easy to digest and help your body eliminate toxins without burdening your digestive system.

Incorporate Cleansing Herbs

Herbs like Triphala, ginger, and turmeric are known for their detoxifying properties. They help stimulate digestion, support liver function, and promote overall detoxification.

Practice Mindful Eating

Don't watch TV or mobile while eating. Always eat your meals in a calm environment, chew your food thoroughly, and avoid distractions. This aids in the proper digestion and assimilation of nutrients.

Sweat It Out

Engage yourself in gentle exercises like yoga, walking, or light cardio to encourage sweating, which is another way your body eliminates toxins.

Adequate Rest

Ensure you get plenty of sleep during your cleanse. Because rest is essential for the body to repair and rejuvenate. 

Foods You Should Indulge While Cleansing

The foods you choose during your cleanse play a vital role in its effectiveness. During the autumnal equinox, favor foods that are warming, grounding, and easy to digest:

For example:

• Root Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, beets, and pumpkins are rich in nutrients and provide the grounding energy needed during a cleanse.

• Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and millet offer sustained energy and are gentle on the digestive system.

• Legumes: Mung beans, lentils, and chickpeas are great sources of protein and fiber, aiding digestion and detoxification.

• Healthy Fats: Ghee, olive oil, and coconut oil support liver function and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

• Spices: Ginger, cumin, coriander, and fennel not only add flavor but also stimulate digestion and detoxification.

A Simple Cleansing Food Recipe: Khichari

Khichari, a traditional Ayurvedic dish, is a perfect cleansing food. It’s easy to digest, nourishing, and helps detoxify the body. Here's how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup split yellow mung dal (lentils)
• 1/2 cup basmati rice
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 pinch of asafoetida (hing)
• 5 cups water
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Wash the mung dal and rice together until the water runs clear and transparent.
2. Heat ghee in a pot over medium heat. Add cumin and mustard seeds, and sauté until they begin to pop, feeling like they're dancing.
3. Then, add turmeric, coriander, ginger, and asafoetida. Stir for a few seconds to release the flavors.
4. Add the rinsed mung dal and rice to the pot and stir to coat them in the spices.
5. After this, pour in the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–30 minutes, until the mixture is soft and mushy.
6. Add salt to taste and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

If you're a person who is burning the candle at both ends, Vata Khichari is the best option for you.

Cleansing Herbs You Must Use 

There are specific herbs and foods that you must incorporate into your cleansing routine to enhance its effectiveness. Here are some Ayurvedic recommendations:

1. Triphala: This ancient Ayurvedic herb blend supports digestion, promotes regularity, and aids in the elimination of toxins.

1. Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, turmeric helps protect the liver and aids in detoxification.

1. Ginger: Ginger is a powerful digestive aid, helping to reduce bloating and stimulate digestion, making it easier for your body to cleanse.

1. Neem: Neem is a bitter herb that purifies the blood and helps eliminate toxins from the body.

1. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera juice supports digestion and acts as a gentle laxative, aiding in the detoxification process.

Sounds like too much? 

Let us make it easier for you. Try your hand at our cleansing kit, containing Vata, Pitta, and Kapha dosha. As you know, autumn is referred to as the Vata season, so you must use a Cleanse Kit for Vata Dosha.

Benefits of Cleansing

Cleansing offers numerous benefits, particularly when done during the transitional period of the autumnal equinox: 

1. Improved Digestion: By giving your digestive system a break, you can reduce bloating, gas, and indigestion.

1. Increased Energy: As your body eliminates toxins, you may notice a significant boost in energy levels and mental clarity.

1. Clearer Skin: Cleansing can help reduce skin issues such as acne, eczema, and dullness, by removing toxins that contribute to these conditions.

1. Enhanced Immunity: A cleanse supports your immune system, making it more resilient against seasonal illnesses. 

1. Better Sleep: Detoxing can improve your sleep quality, helping you wake up refreshed and ready for the day.

How Many Days Should You Take to Cleanse Your Body?

The duration of a cleanse depends on your individual needs and experience with detoxification. A typical cleanse can last anywhere from 3 to 7 days. 

For beginners, a 3-day cleanse is a good start, and if you've more experience with cleansing, you might opt for a 7-day cleanse for deeper detoxification. 

Conclusion

The autumnal equinox is more than just a change in season; it’s an opportunity to cleanse and reset your body, aligning with the natural rhythms of the earth. By taking the time to cleanse, you can shed the excesses of summer, strengthen your body for the cooler months, and emerge with renewed energy and vitality.

Whether you’re new to cleansing or a seasoned practitioner, this period offers the perfect window to rejuvenate your body and mind, setting the tone for a healthy and balanced fall season.