Detoxification (the process of relieving the body of toxins) should ideally be done a couple of times a year, particularly at the start of each season. It's also helpful after big celebrations with heavy meals, or at times when our body feels overwhelmed, our energy is low and constant headaches appear. In these cases, a detoxification protocol can be highly beneficial.
We need to detoxify the body and replenish deficiencies.
But where does this toxicity come from?
Chemicals in the air, toxins in soil and food, processed foods and canned or preserved items all contribute.
When the body takes in these toxins, it must also eliminate them. But our bodies work differently and some people struggle to excrete toxins effectively. In such cases, the body stores them in fat cells, connective tissue, organs, the bloodstream and eventually the liver. To restore balance, these toxins must be removed to allow nutrients to enter and nourish the body.
When starting a detox program, antioxidants are crucial.
The liver detoxifies toxins in two steps: Phase One & Phase Two.
In Phase One, toxic chemicals are transformed into more reactive compounds. Then Phase Two excretes these toxins through urine, sweat and faeces.
Pesticides and synthetic chemicals also affect hormones. They can cause oestrogen imbalances and the accumulation of oestrogenic compounds, which inflame and clog the liver. This disrupts the production of progesterone and testosterone, leading to oestrogen dominance, weight gain, lethargy and low overall wellbeing.
These chemicals can further impact cognition, memory, the nervous system and the endocrine system.
Detoxification is a natural daily process, but low energy impairs its effectiveness. Building your energy levels first is essential.
We also detoxify through the skin. Exercise and sweating help, and using an infrared sauna can enhance this process.
Breathing expels toxins like carbon dioxide. Stress can interfere with this natural mechanism, so it's important to take time for slow, deep, oxygenating breaths each day.
One year ago, I began studying Auricular Acupuncture and discovered how the NADA protocol works alongside a detox program, producing remarkable results. Auricular acupuncture uses filiform needles and vaccaria seeds to stimulate ear points for healing or pain relief. It can diagnose and treat conditions ranging from musculoskeletal pain and nervous system issues to digestive problems, headaches, migraines, detoxification and weight loss.
According to Chinese Medicine, the ears connect to all parts of the body. Stimulating an ear point sends a signal to the brain, which prompts the corresponding organ to respond.
The detox protocol targets five ear acupuncture points: Shen Men, Sympathetic, Kidneys, Liver and Lungs. Fine needles are placed in these points on both ears to support the body's natural detoxification process.
- Lungs supply oxygen to the blood and expel carbon dioxide.
- Liver cleans the blood and supports the immune system.
- Kidneys filter the blood into urine and urea.
Stimulating these organs helps the body detoxify efficiently.
Shen Men and Sympathetic points have analgesic effects, reducing cravings and releasing natural endorphins – 100 times more powerful than morphine.
The Auricular Acupuncture Detox protocol can be followed alongside a detox program. By the end, you'll feel energised, in a better mood and enjoy improved sleep.
If you feel you need a session, don't hesitate to reach out. I've been practising Auricular Acupuncture for a year, achieving excellent results from the very first session.
All images by Marinela Ioana
