Fluidform’s Founder Explains How To Kickstart The Detox Process

Detoxing Has Negative Connotations

The word ‘detox’ gets a bad rap – many of us associate detoxing with extreme fasting or eating plans that are marketed to cleanse the body, but can end up being unhelpful or even harmful. Detoxing is actually a surprisingly simple concept. When we speak about detoxification, we are referring to the natural process of cleansing the body of toxins, specifically in relation to the liver and our lymphatic system, to feel recharged and rejuvenated. When done properly, cleansing allows an opportunity to reflect on our lifestyle habits, release elements that don’t serve us and adopt a more balanced routine.

Fatigue & Poor Sleep Are Signs Of An Imbalance

The body is intelligent and has a clever way of telling us when we need to reset. Some of the most common signs of an internal imbalance include feeling tired or run down, regardless of how much sleep you’re getting; irregular or disrupted sleep; dry or irritated skin; hair loss; pain in your bones, joints and muscles; and poor digestion or irregular bowel movements. If you experience any of these symptoms regularly, it’s your body’s way of telling you to rethink what you are consuming and how you’re moving.

Pilates Supports The Lymphatic System

Getting physical is one of the most effective ways to detox the body naturally, and when it comes to specific types of exercise, it doesn’t get more effective than Pilates. The lymphatic system supports immunity by circulating and draining bodily fluids. In fact, our bodies rely on the lymphatic system to remove bacteria, viruses and toxins. A healthy lymphatic system relies on movement and breathwork to function and flow effectively, which is why exercise is such a powerful way to gently cleanse the body. The Fluidform approach – incorporating consistent strength training with gentle cardio and breathwork – stimulates the flow of lymph through the body, supporting immunity and detoxification. Think of it as your very own lymphatic drainage massage.

Low Impact Movement Drives A Healthy Metabolism

Our metabolism is the process in which our bodies break down and convert food into energy, and harness that energy to power the body. Exercise plays a central role in this process. While intense cardio and HIIT may seem like the obvious workouts of choice to supercharge metabolism, striking a balance between cardio, functional movement and strength training is the secret to a leaner body. When we integrate challenging, low impact movements that build strength and increase the heart rate, the body is encouraged to burn energy over a prolonged period. Just 20 minutes a day will kick your metabolism into gear, and Fluidform is the perfect way to reap the benefits of both cardio and strength, all while supporting the body’s detoxification process.

You Are What You Eat

The combination of movement and nutrition supports a healthy lymphatic system and will make it easier to maintain a healthy weight. What we eat – and drink – directly impacts the liver, the organ responsible for detoxification. Alcohol, processed food, and food packed with sugar and artificial ingredients can impact liver function and disrupt the natural detoxification process. Fortunately, just a few key ingredients can promote a more resilient liver and gently aid the cleansing process. Add these ingredients into your diet when you need to reset:

Matcha: This bright green superfood is rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll, an excellent detoxifier for the body.

Chia Seeds: Chia seeds absorb up to 30 times their weight in moisture, helping maintain optimum hydration. They also contain high amounts of both soluble and insoluble fibre to encourage regular bowel movements.

Lemon: Naturally high in vitamin C, a squeeze of lemon juice in warm water is a great addition to your morning routine as it stimulates digestion.

Coriander: Studies show coriander may bind to heavy metals and encourage the body to flush them out. 

Cruciferous Vegetables: Cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower are high in fibre, which helps the body to naturally eliminate toxins.

Gut Health Matters

At Fluidform, we often speak about supporting the gut microbiome, which plays a central role to a healthy metabolism. An abundance of plant-based, wholegrain foods feed the good bacteria in your gut. When we eat the same foods each day, we limit our intake of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which ultimately compromises gut health. We recommend eating 30 different types of plants within a seven-day period – smoothies and vegetable curries are a great way to reach your goal. Be mindful of processed carbohydrates, caffeine and dairy, too, and avoid mindless snacking. If you must snack, choose something protein-rich and plant-based. Supporting your body from a holistic perspective matters, too. Reduce time spent on social media, maximise time spent outdoors and limit the use of chemicals in your skincare and cleaning routine.

Hydration Is Essential

One of the simplest ways to detox naturally is to ensure you’re staying hydrated. The more you drink, the more you urinate, which is essentially the flushing of fluids that aren’t useful or needed in the body. Water also promotes healthy bowel movements and hydrates the skin from within to ensure a clear and fresh complexion. If you struggle to drink enough during the day, try making a concoction of water with fresh lemon, ginger and turmeric.

Consistency Wins

At Fluidform we’re all for daily movement, and it’s even more important when you’re cleansing. Consistent movement maintains lean muscle, supports your resting metabolic rate (meaning you burn more calories at rest) and keeps your gut happy. Just 20 minutes of movement daily is enough to activate and fatigue your muscles, increase your heart rate and boost endorphins. Look for workouts that support functional movements – focus on improving your posture, identifying and strengthening weaker muscles and balancing the body to move with confidence. Enjoy exercise that serves your mood, energy and happiness without feeling depleted.

Ten Days Is Just The Beginning

The SheerLuxe x Fluidform Reset starts today – a ten-day programme of challenging workouts and healthy recipes to bring the body back into balance. In that time, you’ll feel a difference in your posture and balance, and feel a sense of length and tone through your body. While ten days is just the beginning of a journey, it’s also the perfect amount of time to build realistic and sustainable habits towards creating a cleaner, stronger and healthier lifestyle.

Sign up to the SheerLuxe x Fluidform Reset here. For more information and workout inspiration from Fluidform, visit FluidformPilates.com and follow them on Instagram @FluidformPilates.

DISCLAIMER: Features published by SheerLuxe are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. Always seek the advice of your GP or another qualified healthcare provider for any questions you have regarding a medical condition, and before undertaking any diet, exercise or other health-related programme.