April Wellness Tips
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Spring has finally sprung! After what has felt like an extended winter, we can now relish the warmer weather that is coming.
Have you heard of Spring Fever? It's the phenomenon that occurs when the eagerness and restlessness to get outdoors sets in. The snow has melted away while the rain and sunshine returns the vibrancy of Nature.
Animals have come out of hibernation, the birds are singing, warmer temperatures and "longer" days invite inspiration and enthusiasm. This brings a sweet and affectionate energy, that's why it's typically mating season for animals- humans included.
However, as the body anticipates the heat of Summer, it's not entirely prepared for the warmth of Spring.
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On a mental level, Winter's bitterness becomes Spring's anger as the festering emotions rise to the surface and come to life. Changes to your diet and self-care can help mediate these unwanted emotions.
On a physical level, the excess moisture from the increasing humidity can lead to symptoms such as congestion & puffiness.
Emphasize pungent food like onion, garlic and spices like ginger and cinnamon to help breakdown excess mucous. Meanwhile, diuretics like chickpeas and celery will help to release excess water.
As the temperature rises, the body pushes blood to the limbs and muscles causing us to want to take action.
Fun fact: an increase of 1 degree in basal body temperature causes heart rate to increase by 10 beats per minute.
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If you are someone who suffers from seasonal allergies, listen up!
The increase in heat is what causes certain people to react to various allergens.
Give extra support to your liver by consuming more bitter foods like kale, dandelion, fennel bulb and lettuce.
Also, try flushing your sinuses using a neti pot to help cleanse your passageways and keep bothersome allergens from wreaking havoc on your system.
More examples in the health tips below.
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Top 3 Tips for a smooth Spring transition
01. A routine is crucial during the Spring season, the heaviness and rainy days can make it extra challenging to get up and going.
Rise before the Sun to maximize your day, rinse your sinuses daily to avoid congestion and practice deep belly breathing to increase energy from within. All of these will help to refresh the lymphatic system (waste removal), and leave your mind alert. You can also try dry-brushing to decrease puffiness.
02. Aim to get at least 15 minutes of direct sunlight each day and get some long awaited vitamin D while you're at it. Enjoy a nice walk, find a trail to hike or dust off the old bike.
03. Digestion typically slows this time of year. Keep your meals light and incorporate plenty of leafy greens. This will provide fibre and allow your body time to process the food.
Ensure you are eliminating daily, aloe vera is a gentle laxative that can provide support.
Decrease fatty and sweet foods as they are heavy and can leave you feeling extra sluggish this month. Again choose bitters to help keep the body balanced and avoid fevers, colds, puffiness and heat-induced headaches. And sour foods to support the liver- check below for the recipe of the month for a good option.
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Spring brings vitality, and a youthful glow to those who are able to fully embrace what it has to offer- let's make this your healthiest Spring yet!
Check out the tips below for more specific recommendations, including a complete food list, exercise practices, and more.
April Wellness Handbook
Download these PDFs to access a complete wellness handbook containing:
Food Guide
Movement practices
Self-care practices
Recipe of the Month
Support healthy digestion with an energy boost!
Keeping it simple with 4 ingredients that you can find in your kitchen to help detoxify your liver & boost metabolism.
Clear excess mucus and give you a boost of energy to start your day off on the right foot!
Ginger, Honey & Lemon Tea