Making Space This Spring

I’m writing this to you on the Spring Equinox, full moon, and three months till my 3-0 birthday. This is no big deal, just making it big because I want to. And I can, because this is the place I share things that help me relate in the deepest way to all of you. So a quick thank you, THANK YOU FOR BEING HERE NOW! And, we shall continue.

So, it is finally here. That little glimpse of hope for my people still hustling in this frigid (I’m dramatic, remember) cold weather. I don’t know about you, but I suffered in my usual fashion. With my move to New York, finishing up culinary school, and still not knowing what is to come next month (again, typical Yesi fashion), my urge to hibernate and not deal with it all has stronger than ever. But, I did. I pushed, then hibernated, drank a lot of wine, ate a lot of roasted vegetables, walked to places unknown, then hibernated some more. What happens when we ground, separate ourselves from the outside world even? We think, a a lot.

During the winter, I find myself secluded and internally focused more than ever. Makes sense. We have time to assess and prepare, to make ourselves feel comforted, whether from what we consume to our surroundings. We may eat a little more heavily (almost always seasonally acceptable), clutter our space to comfort or fit our every desire. If you are me, we hardly make it out. In general, it’s cold.

With daylight savings, it only served as a slight reminder. The time is coming to clear out. I don’t so much make a whole production like I used to. No kitchari, no juicing, no cleaning out closets or wiping down my whole place to smell like Method cleaner. We are doing what’s needed. When making space, I’ve learned it doesn’t have to be so grand, but what you see fit. Our needs, changes, and level of ability vary, so rather than go beyond my comfort to make space, I rather stay warm and open up to the not so comfortable that may take room.

Spring is three months, so I make three points. We are still in the beginning, so if you are looking to make changes, it’s okay to take your time…

1. Make space in your surroundings.

   I tend to have extra blankets, candles, and sweaters lying around all winter long. I like to tackle one room or space at a time. One big clean can jumpstart a season of maintenance. And, while my closet doesn’t really need to be cleaned out (I literally left more that half my stuff behind), I will start folding up sweaters and knits. Leaving space for the simplicity of the warmer weather is one of my favorite to-dos. Don’t underestimate the power of a good T-shirt and jeans combo!

2. When it comes to food, think GREEN.

   And I’m not talking juices or smoothies. Literally the market will have a theme of green leaves and more. We are still early for the bright reds and oranges of peppers, tomatoes, peaches, and strawberries (can you tell I”m a lover of summer), but we still have a good selection! Greens will naturally either help cleanse your system or give you the extra nutrition boost to go along with the blooming spring season. Like leaves growing away from the soil, I believe we slowly move forward from the grounding practices and earthy vegetables of winter.

3. Move.

   Confession. This is my “obstacle” and if there is anything that might bring me slightly out of my comfort zone, it’s to move. It’s crazy how we get so accustomed to what we do most, and if you work a desk 9-5 job, you know what I mean. Whether you’re a runner, spinner, or power yogi, I believe these exercise help not just release toxins, but thought as well. You will be doing the mind and body justice to relieve what has been cooped up all winter longer.

So do we fill this Space? Use it? Let it be?

I say it’s all up to you, my dears. I look at this as a time to release, reset, and recharge. I also use each of these points as guide lines. Some are more important, even complicated, to me than others. With my lifestyle, I want to use the joint effort of greens and sweat to boost my energy and immunity to allow something new in. Whether job, friends, or adventure, I’m looking to fulFILL again. As seasons and time go by, the more I see and appreciate the uniqueness in us all. So the saying goes, “Do you, boo!”

Do it with all your heart and health.

4 Steps To Wellness In The Winter

Lavender Oatmeal Facial, Sweet Treat Beauty

You guys.  It's winter.  Whether it feels like it by you or not, the winter solstice has come and gone, so let's (if we must) embrace those changes .   

I'd be lying if I said it's been too busy.  Honestly, I have taken more time for myself.  Whether it be reflecting, taking on new hobbies, prepping for the new season, or staying warm, there is no guilt in me-time.  This is what I tell myself, but in reality I think most of guess a little shaky if we are not constantly working.  What's up with that?

Anyway, I wanted to share how I TRY to keep sane, warm and well during the holiday and winter season.  From different beauty tricks, everyday detox, and digestion tips, the way we take care of ourselves drastically changes if you experience drastic shifts in seasons. I mean, it's 20 degrees where I am at...  If my hot-and-humid-Florida-loving self can adjust, so can you!

I've actually done something similar in previous posts, a mini series if you will.  For now, here are 4 quick steps and hacks to have on hand this winter!

1. Everyday Wellness

Probably the most important one.  I feel like in the summer, wellness routines can go astray, yet the warmth, humidity, and longer days are a little more forgiving and allow us to be a little more flexible.  During the winter, no so much.  Consistency is key to maintain health all year round. 

Mentioned in previous posts, there are habits and rituals to incorporate everyday and they make a hell of difference these months!

• Lemon water - Get those digestive juices going!
• Dry Brushing - Blood flow of the lymphatic system which supports your immune system.
• Netti Pot - Clear out your sinus every damn day.  Prevent bacteria buildup.

2. Light Fasting

From the time you have dinner until breakfast, you should just be looking at about 12 hours of light fasting.  It may also be looked at for many as a natural fast, but of course everyone's body clock is different.  Fasting gives your body just the right amount of time to rest, balance sugar levels, and let your digestive system work its magic. 

Find what works for your lifestyle and schedule though, and prepare the next day's breakfast based on today's dinner. If you have a late dinner, for example, you may just want to whip up a quick juice or smoothie to hold you over until the next mealtime. 

3. Movement

This one is definitely the hardest to get myself into.  It's not until I actually start moving and sweating do I remember why I recommend this in the first place.

It's easy to feel sluggish, tired, and COLD during these next few months.  Although, exercise is beneficial all year-round, if you want to combat those winter blues, you betta get moving!  Simple stretches and twists can warm up and loosen your muscles, especially if you are at a desk all day, automatically getting your digestive system moving and fired up as well.  If you're feeling it, it's a great time to take on a new workout routine or challenge.  Why wait till the new year? Watch how quickly your mood, health, and boo-tay get a boost!

4. Oil Up.

This step doesn't get enough love I think.  When I tell people I use oil instead of lotion, I get surprising, sometimes perplexed, and sometimes mortified looks.  But really, it makes perfect sense. 

For those who retain heat well, you can use coconut oil all year long, but for those of us who need an extra layer of moisture, almond oil is your best bet.  Before or right after a shower, massage into your skin and pat dry.  This will seal the moisture and vitamins in, keeping you warm and soft all day/ night long.  

*For a more healing and therapeutic effect use sesame seed oil.  It's the perfect warming body oil before bed.  If this is too much to start, try massaging it into your feet and hands first.  As temperature conductors you won't regret this healing sensation.  

Everyday Cleansing Into Everyday Wellness

York River, Maine

You know that point during the vacation when you put your hands on your stomach and then think to yourself, " I def need a detox when I get home."  I had that feeling during my last meal in Maine.  I think it was the lobster pizza and mac'n cheese that put me over the edge (pictures to come!), but a girl gotta live!

For the most part I was able to maintain a couple of everyday rituals to keep me grounded and prepared for whatever the day would bring, while I was there.  Things I knew were essential to waking up feeling better and ready for whatever lied ahead.

After only a couple of days of being back home, I was able to drink my green juices and smoothies, have some yogurt, and still enjoy some Indian and Thai take out.  After missing the weekend, I was trying to get settled ALL WEEK, which means groceries was done in increments.  I find it easier for me to go to the market a few times a week for what I need than a huge haul.  I blame the farmer market.  

People believe it's all about what you eat that effects your overall health, but wellness taught me something greater.  It's a lifestyle. Where the mind, body, gut, all connect and work together to help you live your best life.  When you feel good you do good, and when you do good you feel even better.  So, I always use key practices to help me stay on track.  Know matter where.  To keep my body healthy and my mind open, it's not always perfect, but consistency is what plays a major role.

*These are practice I have been doing for more about four or five years.  They may not work over night, but I do recommend a consistent practice for at least a month to feel/see results.

Lemon Water

The wellness trend that took the tribe by storm.  You've probably heard of it, probably tried it, but are you still doing it?  A cup of warm water with lemon every morning is known for doing the body sooo good, and for great reason.  We hydrate first thing in the morning and automatically get our digestive system fired up for the day.  Especially during colder months are digestive systems actually slows down.  Makes sense since your body is trying so hard to keep itself warm.  We want to get the gut going for maybe the heavier foods we may be putting in.  Also, with a swig of apple cider vinegar you are balancing your pH (which is super acidic in the morning), stabilizing blood sugar, and getting your metabolism going.  Point is to hydrate, cleanse, and fire up our systems every morning.  No special detox needed. 

Dry Brushing

An ayurvedic ritual that seems to be growing.  People actually do this for different reasons, but the point is they all work and you feel great.  Dry brushing allows you to help stimulate the lymphatic system, which actually is one of your larger systems that runs throughout your whole body.  You help stimulate the vessels and fluid that help carry these immune boosting, infection fight white blood cells throughout the body.  Want to get sick less?  Add this to your morning routine before a shower.  Also a natural exfoliation and known to reduce the look of cellulite, it's become an easy way to actually appreciate my whole body every morning.  How to here.

Therapeutic Oil Massage

Because nothing says love like a massage.  And you can give yourself one every night.  I find myself doing this as a relaxation method more than anything else.  With a warming oil to help massage and release fluid from muscles after a long day,  I do right before bed.  After a shower at night while the skin is still warm and wet, you want to massage oil deeply into your skin. Using sesame seed oil, which is a warming oil, (or almond if sesame feels too much for you ) you work it into your whole body from feet to neck.  Pat softly with a towel to remove any excess/  Doing this while still wet will help your skin absorb the oil, leaving you moisturized and not oily ,the whole night.  These winter months can be brutal so keeping your skin hydrated, your body warm, and muscles relaxed is essential.

Triphala

An ayurvedic blend, it naturally supports cleansing, digestion, and an antioxidant.  I think it's perfect to start to take on a detox as it will work even further help cleanse internal system and although it does say it will keep you regular, this is not a laxative!  A gentle support to help regular bowel movements release toxic buildup.  This is meant to help all three doshas according to Ayurveda practices. For more information, check out this link!

Creating Your Own Detox

Peaks Island, Maine

One of my favorite topics.  Honestly, it both excites me and makes me nervous, but I can't deny the fact that I always find myself in need of it this time of year.  

I want to make this thorough, but still quick and painless. Let's jump right into it!

What is a detox?

First thing.  There isn't a one sentence answer I can give, mostly because there isn't just one kind.  From kidney and liver detoxes, to Spring and Fall detoxes, Ayurvedic Detoxes, and the infamous juice cleanse.  What do all of these have in common?  They are all meant to remove a buildup of toxins, rejuvenate your internal systems, therefore give you more energy and clarity.  If done correctly, guaranteed.  Simply put, release the bad, fire up the good.  

Why and When to detox?

Every couple of seasons our bodies go through drastic changes to adapt and keep us healthy.  Particularly during extreme summer months and frigid winter months.  It is during spring and fall, that we focus ridding the toxin buildup in our systems, such as lymphatic and intestinal, so we may stay healthy and feel good for the next season to come.  Our bodies have different routines, sleep schedules, food intake, and digestion processes during summer and winter, as it should be, it's only fair to help ourselves readjust so we feel our best.  Think heavier foods and fats in the winter and longer days in the summer. 

When we rid the toxins, we at the same time fire up our systems.  Especially our digestion system.  Our gut is actually responsible for most of the endorphins that are connected to our brain.  When our gut is healthy and happy, we are.  We obtain more energy, immunity, and clarity all while simply nourishing selves during these transitional (or any) seasons.  

How to detox?

I think this is the part that surprises people the most.  There is not just one way to detox!  Even simple everyday tools will put you on the right track.  That's for another post.  For now, here are a few different kinds that you can try or take a bit of information from each to create your own.

Juice Cleanse.  This is one of the more obtainable intense resets.  The point of the juice cleanse is for one day to three days, you give your digestion system a complete break.  Instead you get all the nutrients you need to help target and detox other areas.  With organic nutrient dense juices, you cleanse your liver and kidneys, while other internal systems get the bulk of attention and energy.  Our digestive system NEVER STOPS WORKING.  We eat all day, everyday, you can only imagine the amount of energy our body puts just to digesting food and fiber.  A juice cleanse focuses to detox other systems so we rid toxins, heavy metals, while still having great energy.

*This cleanse is not for the faint of heart.  It's important to get a lot of nutrient dense juices throughout the day to keep you hydrated, sustained, and energized.

Ayurvedic Cleanse.  My, oh my.  This one is pretty dear to my.  It is actually one of the first cleanses I ever did.  The perfect cleanse designed for your body type.  Ayurveda simply means the science of life.  An ancient way of living from India, it has remained prominent practice both in India and has made it's way into the wellness world  Depending if you are Vata, Pitta, or Kapha, everything is taken into account from everyday practices to how to detox and cleanse your body.  Everything from meals and liquids, oils and scents, even when to work out is for your specific Dosha.

*This may be difficult for those with a fluctuating schedule.  Hot lunches and meal times are important to keep in mind, as it's about eating (or not) consciously throughout the day

Whole Foods Cleanse.  Not to be confused with the Whole 30 cleanse.  This one focuses on clean eating through real and all three meals. Snacks, smoothies, and juices all included.  This is great for those who maybe are experimenting with the whole wellness-clean-eating thang.  It's actually one of my favorites.  Vegan is the best option, but for those who need a little something more, eggs, organic pasture raised chicken, and salmon are my favorite protein options to include.  By eliminating refined sugars, caffeine, alcohol, heavy meats, and then adding organic seasonal produce, herbs, and superfoods, you are giving your body optimal nutrition.  This will help rid toxins, get energy, clear skin, and shed a little weight!

Who can detox?

Anyone and everyone.  It's just figuring out what is right for you.  If you have any health concerns such as diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or intestine inflammation, consult with a doctor first.  Insist that you are interested in taking a holistic approach and then do your research!  Partner with a nutrition or health coach (hey, there!) and get the ball rolling.  A detox is the perfect way to jump start your way to wellness and make space from the inside outside.