Detoxing to support your health

Taking a holistic approach to skincare means rather than just treating the surface of our skin we should look at the bigger picture and take into consideration how we are as a whole; our health, our thoughts and how this might be affecting our skin.

Most skin issues originate from an imbalance in the body or mind or, as one well respected complementary therapist calls it, the bodymind – as the two are inseparable. A perfect example of this is how stress can cause an outbreak of or exacerbate eczema. So if we can help ourselves by looking beyond the surface, we will get to the root of the problem rather than just managing the symptoms
 
Detoxing helps clean our system by removing toxins that have built up in our bodies. It is beneficial as our whole system is able to function more efficiently afterwards resulting in us feeling and looking healthier.

A cleanse or detox can be as gentle or as strict as you wish to make it. It will look very different for a coffee drinking, wine loving smoker than for a teetotal vegan but whichever detox route you choose to go down, cleansing and detoxing should be carried out with care. It is not suitable for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding or anyone who has a history of eating disorders. In some cases, particularly if you are taking medication or have a chronic health condition, it is only safe with supervision of a professional dietician, nutritionist or naturopath. However if you are able to do some form of cleanse it is well worth the effort.

Anyone who has ever been on a detox will tell you that half way through, they tend to look and feel pretty grotty but at the end their skin always looks great and they have more energy. A facial is a great treat in the middle of a detox when your skin is looking grey or spotty as the toxins are expelled and your enthusiasm is flagging. It helps boost morale and keep those mirages of chocolate at bay!

Although we have to stick to the rules whilst detoxing if we want the best results, it is important to bear in mind that we are dusting the cobwebs from the corners. Be gentle and kind in your approach - this is a way of caring for ourselves by supporting our health and well-being and not an endurance test.

Have a plan that you feel will challenge you but is achievable. It pays to plan well, avoiding time when you may have social engagements that involve eating or drinking alcohol. Make sure you have the cupboard stocked with food you are allowed to eat and within the limitations include things you enjoy; for example fruit smoothies.

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Amina Pfeufer, Nutritional Practitioner

​There is a great deal of information on how best to cleanse your system but I would recommend seeking advice from a professional nutritionist. If you are thinking of doing a body cleanse for the first time, I know just the person.

Amina Pfeufer is a nutritional and craniosacral therapist. If anyone can make you feel happy at the thought of eating your greens it is Amina. She is a ray of sunshine; her positivity is truly contagious and I highly recommend her. 

Amina is a registered Nutritional practitioner (mBANT, mCNHC) practicing in London and Oxford, helping her clients in a wide range of areas, including digestive, reproductive and skin health.

After seeing friends and family battling with a variety of health conditions but failing to find conventional solutions, she decided to retrain in nutritional therapy, convinced that diet and lifestyle play a vital role in optimal health.

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Contact Amina