Detoxing with Intention: A Few Trendy Rituals — and What You Should Know

Whether you’re resetting after travel, clearing out chemicals, starting fresh after an illness, or just curious — here’s a balanced look at ways people support the body’s natural cleansing systems.

Let’s start with a heart-centered reminder: Your body already has powerful detox systems — your liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and lymphatic system — working nonstop to cleanse and renew. What we’re talking about here are supportive practices, not miracle cures.

1. Hydration Is a Non-Negotiable

If you’re thinking about detoxing after indulging over the holidays, or as commitment to a healthier lifestyle, you should know that hydration matters. Being hydrated helps everything from blood and lymphatic flow,  to literally helping every organ system function more optimally.

Even more importantly, when you consume coffee or a glass of wine, you should add even more than the standard 6-8 eight ounce glasses to your routine.
*Adding electrolytes to your water can help if you get in a deficit. 

Electrolyte drink you can make at home:

Dr. Zach Bush suggests 8 oz of clean water, a pinch of himalayan sea salt and the juice of one lemon or lime. This is an easy way to get hydrated without all of the artificial colors or flavors found in traditional sports drinks. I encourage you to try it for a refreshing way to up your hydration game. The price per serving can’t be beat!

To save time on juicing, we like this option.

2. Infrared Saunas: Warmth + Sweat + Circulation

Infrared saunas have become a go-to for “detoxing” because they heat the body from the inside out, and they encourage deep, sustained sweating.

What the science says:

• Infrared heat raises your core temperature and increases circulation, which allows the lymph to flow better. Better lymph flow=better immune function. This time of year, we can use all the help we can get!

• Studies have shown that an infrared sauna allows the detox pathways for the liver, kidneys and skin to function in an optimal state. When paired with adequate hydration and rest, this is a win-win!

• Increased circulation also activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the “rest and digest” sensation that we all need. It’s the opposite of “fight or flight”, and the benefits of activating this “PSNS” will astound you!!

If space is an issue, here is an infrared sauna blanket that I’ve tried and love. Again, stay hydrated!

3. Dry Brushing: Gentle & Invigorating

Dry brushing is the practice of using a soft, natural-bristle brush on dry skin before bathing. By gently brushing the skin from the fingers to the chest, from the feet to the groin, and down the neck and across the chest, the lymphatic flow is stimulated and the skin sloughs off. It can also be done on the back and the abdomen. Showering afterwards is crucial.
This practice is surprisingly powerful!

If you want to learn more, it has become a fixture in detox conversations. And here’s one I love and love to gift others.

4. (Manual) Lymphatic Drainage & Massage

Manual lymphatic drainage is a technique performed by trained therapists that helps encourage movement of lymph fluid, especially in cases of swelling or fluid retention. It can be combined with massage to stimulate and move stuck lymphatic material, allowing the immune system to function more optimally. 

NOTE: If you have lymphedema or serious swelling, consult your healthcare provider before trying lymphatic drainage or any new therapies.

5. Oil Pulling: Traditional Swishing Ritual

Oil pulling involves swishing oil (like coconut oil) in your mouth. The benefits are too many to list. This is an excellent citation for the benefits. It will also provide you with a clear understanding of the origins of this amazing ritual.

Bottom Line

Detoxifying is a powerful practice! Our detox organs include the liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and lymphatic system. These systems have intricacies that make them important when considering detoxifying your body from anything. Incorporating infrared saunas, dry brushing, massage, and oil pulling can help these vital systems function well, especially when combined with good rest, hydration and nutrition.

PS: If you’re detoxing after antibiotics, vaccines, or any injectables, talking with your healthcare provider about timing can also help you avoid unwanted reactions.