I try very hard to eliminate toxins from my diet — skipping alcohol and caffeine and eating organic food whenever possible — but I still have signs of toxic overload. I know that there are toxins in my environment that I just can’t avoid. What can I do to help mitigate the effects of toxins I can’t control?

From an ayurvedic perspective, the environment is our extended body. The relationship between our personal body and our extended body means that our personal choices have a collective influence, and our collective choices affect each of us individually. The cars we drive, the food we eat, and the clothing we wear influences the air, water, and soil in our ecological system. Choose to reduce your contribution to the collective toxicity of this planet.

On a personal level, see if you are holding onto toxic emotions or participating in a toxic relationship that can be transformed. Look at your home and work environments, assessing if there are choices you can make to improve the quality of your experience.

One weekend a month, take time to do a home detox program. Simplify your life for 48 hours. Take time to meditate, practice yoga, and go for walks. Eat simply, favoring rice, vegetables, and easily digestible lentils. Drink gingerroot tea. Get massaged. Avoid driving and refrain from watching television. Read inspiring books and listen to uplifting music. Provide your senses with a regular opportunity to purify, and your system will take the opportunity to release accumulated toxins.

With love,
David