How to Transition to Toxin Free Living
The fresh start of the spring season may have us all aching to spend most of our time outdoors but, it’s also a time for cleaning and decluttering as well. That’s right, after spending a majority of our time in hibernation mode throughout the cold winter; it might be time for a little spring cleaning. And, I happen to think that this is one of the best times you can start to create a toxin free lifestyle.
What does toxin free mean?
Toxins are everywhere, they are in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the products we reach for on a daily basis. A lot of our toxic daily habits were borne out of convenience. But, would you believe me if I said that one of the main focuses of a toxin free lifestyle is simplicity?
Toxin free living isn’t as difficult as it may seem at first. But, it does force you to be more intentional with how you go about your day. The goal is to use simple, clean products that don’t harm your body, or the environment. Am I the only one who thinks all other products should be removed from the shelves?
Simply put, toxin free means to keep naturally sourced products around your home and on your skin.
HOW TO BECOME TOXIN FREE
It’s no secret that I believe fresh, local, organic food is the best for your diet. I mention that here when I encourage you to take part in a CSA program, and here where I give some quick tips for healthy cooking. The goal is to keep as much packaged/refined foods, and pesticides out of your diet as possible.
The key here is to start with a handful of simple, nutritious recipes that you (and the family) enjoy using fresh, local and organic ingredients. Having these recipes in your back pocket will give you the confidence you need to slowly try new things, and your family will be more open to it too. If you are looking for a guide on how to plan your meals, you need to check out the meal planning framework for more!
YOUR 21- DAY CHALLENGE
Many people have asked me “How can I become toxin free?” My answer is to take the 21-Day Challenge to reduce your toxic load. Each day has a simple task to complete to make your journey easier.
Grab Your Free Guide Right Here!
Challenge Days 1-12
Day 1 | Tell your friends + family about your plan to live toxin free, and invite them to join you for this challenge! It’s more fun when you have someone to complete the challenge with.
Day 2| Remove synthetic scents from your home, like perfumes and candles. These everyday items can irritate the respiratory system and release dangerous pollutants.
Day 3| Remove plastic storage containers from your home and replace them with glass and/or reusable storage bags.
Day 4| Try meditation or a deep breathing exercise, I suggest the Calm App. There is a free version of the app available.
Day 5| Ditch the toxic dryer sheets. They leave a residue on your clothes! If they are a must have in your home, grab reusable wool dryer balls instead, like these.
Day 6| Wash your produce before you enjoy it. The amount of pesticides in our food these days is off the charts. Check out the EWGs dirty dozen + clean fifteen for more.
Day 7| Buy a house plant or two. These plants work wonders at purifying the air. Place one in your bedroom for better sleep.
Day 8| Write down three things you are grateful for.
Day 9| Check the label on your hand soap. They are often loaded with chemicals. Try this all natural diy instead – In a 16 oz bottle, add 1/4 cup castile soap and fill the rest with water. Easy peazy!
Day 10| Use naturally sourced cleaners. Ingredients like white vinegar, baking soda, castile soap, and salt are great to have on hand for your own diys.
Day 11| Trade out your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo one! And, check your toothpaste too. Even some natural options are no good. EWGs Skin Deep is a great resource to have on hand.
Day 12| Research where to buy seasonal, fresh, local + organic produce in your town.
Challenge Days 13-21
Day 13| Ditch your plastic water bottle for a glass or stainless steel one instead.
Day 14| Personal Hygiene – Now, that you’ve researched the toxicity of your toothpaste, do the same for your personal hygiene products like shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, body wash + lotion.
Day 15| Take a 20-30 minute walk in nature, no distractions.
Day 16| Indulge in an Epsom salt bath before bed to release tension from your muscles, and reduce stress. One half cup of epsom salts for every 50 lbs of you!
Day 17| Enjoy a cup of herbal tea today!
Day 18| Add more veggies into your meals. Think simple, like a snack of carrots and hummus or maybe a salad for lunch.
Day 19| Dry brush before your shower, this is a great ritual to gently detox your body.
Day 20| Be aware of heavy metals in your foods. Check your pantry to see how you fare.
Day 21| Drink more water!! You will notice an improvement in your energy, and flush toxins out of your system.
You should know...
As with any decision, taking the first step to live a toxin free lifestyle is often the hardest part. But, it doesn’t have to be. This guide will help you take one small step each day to start your journey toward a toxin free lifestyle.
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