Why cleanse - and why now?

For me, lapses of energy for no apparent reason, pronounced mood swings, feeling uncomfortable in my body, aches and pains... are all signs that I need to unburden my body-mind of toxins. If you're feeling any of these things on a regular basis, it might be a good idea to cleanse.The detox programme I'm proposing – and which begins on Monday  (though you can of course download the information our Facebook page at a later date and follow it any time you like - the cleanse is going to be on Facebook only this year) is a relatively gentle one. It consists of gradually taking the main toxins out of the diet (and those foods and drinks that your system may be 'fighting' with) and, for 21 days and living on a healthy, nutritious diet without these foods. Why now? Because early spring is often seen at a time when our liver energy is strongest (the liver being the main 'detox organ' of the body).The foods we take out are: meat and fish (as these often contain additives and are quite tiring for the body to digest), artificial additives of any sort, dairy products, wheat and gluten, sugar, caffeine and alcohol.The effect? Though the withdrawal phase can be difficult, with 'side effects' such as tiredness and headaches, and food cravings, after a few days people often tend to feel renewed energy, vigour, mental clarity and a growing ease in the body, which, long-term, should you choose to remain on the diet (which many people do, as you feel so good), tends to resume its natural, balanced state and, as if by magic, on a physical level too, any 'lumps and bumps' caused by a build-up of toxins tend to fall away.This programme, however, is not for everyone. It does require a good base level of health. And a good dose of stamina. If you are a detoxing beginner, I recommend that you start by following a basic weekend detox – I'll be doing one (accompanied by a daily post on Facebook) in early autumn. Then you can do the 21-day programme later on, when your body has a better base level in terms of toxicity.And, though I am a trained complementary practitioner, I am not a medical doctor and so would also advise anyone with any health issues to check with their doctor before beginning a diet like this.The 10-day countdown begins on Monday. If you miss a day, for any reason, you can find each post on the 21-day cleanse on the little white feather Facebook page. Click 'like' and you'll get each daily post in your news feed.