The Ultimate Spring Detox Guide

The importance of sunlight and circadian rhythm

With longer days and increased exposure to natural light, spring is an opportunity to reset your circadian rhythm – your body’s internal clock that regulates sleep, energy levels and hormone production. Sunlight in the morning triggers the release of neurotransmitters that boost mood, focus and overall well-being. However, dim light in the evening encourages melatonin production, preparing your body for restorative sleep.

Spending time outdoors, especially in the morning, can help regulate your circadian rhythm, improving sleep quality and reducing fatigue. Aim for at least 20 – 30 minutes of morning sunlight daily to support this natural cycle.

Try to avoid wearing sunglasses constantly, as frequent use can disrupt your circadian rhythm by limiting natural light exposure to the eyes. Morning sunlight, without sunglasses, helps regulate melatonin production and supports a healthy sleep-wake cycle.

Eating in spring to energise and detoxify

Spring is the season of light, fresh foods that cleanse and rejuvenate the body after winter’s heavier, warming meals. Traditional healing systems like Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine associate spring with the liver and gallbladder, meaning it’s an ideal time to support detoxification.

Key spring foods:

• Leafy greens (spinach, rocket, watercress) are packed with chlorophyll which helps cleanse the liver and improve digestion.
• Spring onions & garlic are rich in sulphur compounds that support detox pathways.
• Radishes and beetroot aid liver function and improve circulation.
• Asparagus and artichokes help promote digestion and are natural diuretics.
• Fermented foods (sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir) support gut health and immunity.
• Citrus fruits (lemons, limes, grapefruits) help alkalise the body and provide a rich source of vitamin C to support immune health.

Spring detox: simple ways to cleanse and reset

Spring naturally supports detoxification, and simple daily changes can help your body eliminate waste more efficiently. Focusing on small, consistent habits can make a big difference in your overall well-being.

• Increase fibre intake from organic vegetables, legumes and seeds (flaxseeds, chia).
• Reduce processed foods and focus on whole, nutrient-dense options by following the CNM naturopathic diet.
• Drink warm lemon water in the morning to stimulate digestion.
• Move your body daily as gentle exercise like walking or stretching supports circulation. Have you tried rebounding?
• Prioritise sleep as detoxification happens at night, so aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest.
• Staying hydrated is essential for flushing toxins and keeping energy levels high. Try incorporating herbal teas such as:
• Nettle tea is rich in minerals, supports kidney function and reduces inflammation.
• Dandelion root tea is a natural liver tonic that aids digestion.
• Peppermint tea helps with bloating and digestion.

Mind-body practices to align with spring

Beyond diet and sunlight, embracing seasonal lifestyle changes can enhance well-being during spring.

Spend more time outdoors and reconnect with nature by gardening or simply sitting in the sun. Fresh air and natural surroundings reduce stress and improve mental clarity.

Declutter and refresh your living and work spaces. Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up – it also clears mental and emotional stagnation. Let go of items you no longer need and introduce air-purifying plants to freshen the air.

Embrace movement and new routines as energy levels rise in spring so it’s a good time to try incorporating new activities like hiking, cycling or outdoor swimming. Moving with the rhythms of nature helps maintain balance and vitality.

Set intentions and reflect as the spring equinox is a time of new beginnings. Take a moment to reflect on what you want to create in the coming months, whether it’s better health, creativity or personal growth.

Expand your knowledge by taking a short course in natural health, nutrition or herbal medicine to deepen your understanding, enrich your well-being, and empower you to make healthier choices. CNM offers a variety of mini and short courses covering a wide range of topics, including balancing female hormones, nutrition for children, men’s health and gut health.