Feeling stressed? Fed up? Overwhelmed? Most of us take on more than we can handle and resist releasing the surplus. Our lives are out of control, and we don’t even know it. But we feel it–that ever-present stress.
A new year is a new beginning, so what better time to detox your life than right now? Start today with these four steps.
1. Detox Your Mind
Like the body, the mind needs to be cleansed from time to time. Follow these tips:
- Train yourself to replace negative thoughts with positive ones.
- Set aside at least 10 minutes a day for quiet time.
- Let go of unhealthy attachments–jobs, relationships, foods, things, habits.
- Visualize good things coming into your life–people, circumstances, experiences, etc.
- Learn to meditate. It clears your mind and restores your inner peace.
- Use a journal to vent your frustrations. Write them down, and leave them there.
2. Detox Your Relationships
Chances are there are people in your life who are toxic: chronic complainers, crafty manipulators, bullies, users and abusers.
- Notice how you feel around each person. Are you relaxed, anxious, energized, drained, depressed, happy?
- Cut ties with people who add unnecessary stress and drama.
- Invest your time in people who show you that they respect, value and care for you.
- Establish healthy boundaries: Learn to say “No” to those who habitually burden you with their responsibilities.
3. Detox Your Body
Yes, you could do a detox diet on liquids or raw foods for days or weeks, but that may not be realistic for you. At least try the basics:
- Eat nutritious foods.
- Avoid crappy foods.
- Cut down on caffeine.
- Exercise enough to sweat.
- Go for walks outdoors.
- Don’t smoke.
- Prioritize sleep.
4. Detox Your Home
Unless you’re a hardcore minimalist, there’s plenty of stuff in your house that you no longer need. It’s time to get rid of the clutter.
- Clean your closets and drawers.
- Donate clothes, furniture, food and other items to local charities.
- Organize every space in your home, and keep it that way.
- Sort out all important documents, and keep them in a designated place.
- After you use something, put it back where it belongs.
- Clean as you go. Don’t let the dirt pile up.
- Detox the air with indoor plants.
