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Sound familiar? Detoxification is decidedly amongst the most popular trends of recent years. There is a deep history of varied methods for 'purification' on physical, mental/emotional and spiritual levels, which can be overwhelmingly daunting for seekers of cleansing the body and mind. "How do I get started?" First, we must understand precisely how the body functions, and what "detoxification" truly means. We can then take an approach that actually works with the body's healthy physiology. That is, "general detox" may miss the mark after an unpleasant, inconvenient and complicated process. Enduring 'suffering' is not necessary to optimizing our energy and vitality. In fact, it places more strain upon the body's natural processes. Secondly, we must clarify our imbalances and goals. We must ask ourselves: "Could my imbalances require more than a simple 'detox'?" Ideally, tailoring the process to our own medical history, lifestyle demands, and nuances of current imbalances supports effective, longer lasting results. There are certainly foods and plant medicines to hasten the movement of waste through the body's channels of elimination, when selected with these factors in mind. Embarking on a "One Size Fits All" detoxification program may seem beneficial in the short term, but like a custom-crafted gown or suit, there is much to be said for the long-term benefits of exclusive designs and quality materials – not all plant preparations are created equal or appropriate for us. In this sense, seeking professional counsel is one's best approach to defining goals, understanding related key medical considerations, and ensuring safety with efficacy. "After all of this, I am going to need some serious Detox." TRUE DETOX: From Trendy Myth to Physiology, How to Truly Support Renewal A Medical Herbalist's Perspective By Tami Bronstein V U E N J . C O M 104 VUE ON WELLNESS

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