The temperatures are getting warmer, the days longer, the heavy winter coat being replaced by a lighter coat, long sleeve shirts replacing sweaters and sneakers chosen over  boots.  Have you already begun to clear your closets of wool, cashmere and fleece for cotton, polyester and spandex? How about all those papers that accumulate over winter, are you becoming anxious to discard? Having second thoughts about your relationships, job, and or food choices? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, you are not alone!

Spring defined as that time of year between winter and summer that signifies rebirth, rejuvenation, regrowth, resurrection and last but not least, renewal, has the propensity to put everything on the table.  Being the Kapha season, I am not surprised! The qualities or gunas of Kapha include heavy, dense, cool, soft, smooth, slow, sticky and stable. Hence as we transition from winter/vata season to spring/kapha season, we take on the qualities of kapha, even if we are not predominately a kapha constitution. And, all of us are exposed to vata gunas in the winter including cold, dry, rough, mobile, light, clear and subtle. Hence as the weather begins to warm, the ground begins to soften, buds sprout on the trees, our bodies take on these similar characteristics.  We also begin to defrost and renew resulting in a viscous, sticky mess inside our bodies and  minds. Homeostasis would suggest we need to bring ourselves back into balance!

So I ask again, to cleanse or not to cleanse?  Knowing what you know now, it becomes clear that springtime is optimal for cleansing.   The great thing about an Ayurvedic cleanse is it’s gentle and suggested for all body types.  Just like a good yoga practice, you can modify the regimen to meet your specific needs. If you would like guidance regarding setting up your individual cleanse, reach out for a consult.  I am also available on skype! 

To get started, try this beet smoothie, great for cleansing the liver and moving the lymph. 

Beet Smoothie:

1/2 raw peeled beet, sliced fresh ginger, juice of 1/2 lemon, 1/4 cup fresh parsley, 1/2 granny smith apple and 1 cup fresh water, cardamom to taste

Place all ingredients in blender until desired consistency. Enjoy!!