There are a number of weird and wonderful detox therapies available that every woman should try at least once, and many come and go with the fashion depending on which celebrity has been extolling its virtues. Detox therapies are an interesting concept. Many cynics oppose the ‘detox’ concept as it suggests that you can live carelessly and detox for a few days afterwards to cleanse. I understand some of the criticisms, but I do think that detoxing is not just about the physical cleansing but also about a mental one. Like all alternative therapies, cynicism abounds surrounding their actual benefits and some critics are quick to dismiss them as pseudo-scientific claptrap. I think we should remain open minded though so here is a whistle-stop tour through a few alternative detox therapies.
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1. Marma Therapy
Marmas are similar to chakras or reflexology points in that they refer to vital points in the body. The belief is that the energy channels to these Marma points, known as nadis, need to be cleared in order to strengthen and cleanse the body. The therapist will 'unblock' areas in the physical area of the body, which it is believed are linked with emotional ones. Marma therapy uses Ayurvedic massage techniques and medicines, a system of traditional medicine native to India. Massage and cleansing treatments using oils, heat and herb patches can be part of the treatment. It is one of the detox therapies traditionally used to treat fatigue, arthritis, stress and digestion problems.
2. Space Clearing
As the name suggests, this therapy involves clearing and cleansing the space around us to optimise creativity and well-being. It's very similar to Feng Shui in many respects and is linked to the belief that if your space around you is messy or things are ‘out of place’ then this can affect your mind and contribute to feelings of stress and negativity. I'm tidying my desk as I type!
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3. Iridology
Right guys, look into my eyes. We have all heard that the eyes are the windows to the soul. Well, iridologists believe that the iris can also indicate underlying health problems. Certain color changes are indicators of health problems and iridologists claim that by looking at your eyes, they can detect food intolerances, mineral deficiencies and organ imbalances.
4. Crenotherapy
This is an age-old therapy and many European spas in places such as Bulgaria, Poland and Hungary offer this treatment. Different methods are used in this therapy and mineral water containing Selenium, Calcium and copper is either drunk to cleanse the system or alternatively, you can submerge yourself in a pool of the mineral rich water to reap the benefits. This is supposed to treat digestive problems and immunity disorders.
5. Light Therapy (Also Known as Phototherapy or Heliotherapy)
You know when the seasons change and it's dark and dreary outside and we don't want to get out of bed? Well, this light deprivation can cause depression in some people and is known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). During a light therapy session, you will sit next to a light therapy box, which emits bright light, similar to natural outdoor light. It is thought to ease sleep disorders and depression. Light therapy is also used to treat skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and arthritis and is also used to help with blood circulation.
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6. Crystal Therapy
Crystals have been thought to contain mystic and healing properties since the dawn of time and have been used by different cultures including the Chinese and Hopi native Americans. It is believed that different crystals contain different elements that can help heal body and mind. Different crystals are placed on various areas of the body, which correspond to the chakras. The colors of the crystals are significant, for example green crystals and stones are believed to be balancing whilst red stones are thought to be energizing.
7. Thalassotherapy
"Thalassa" is the Greek word for sea and this therapy combines skin treatments, massage and detox. It is great for cellulite, arthritis, easing aching joints and bones, eczema and psoriasis. During the treatment you immerse yourself into a pool, which contains warm and purified seawater containing minerals to help detox and purify the body. The pool contains jets, which helps the blood to circulate effectively and also helps ease aches and pains. Anyone who has sat in a Jacuzzi has indulged in a form of thalassotherapy, and who doesn't love the pummeling feeling of the jets on your legs. I can almost feel the cellulite melting away. If only it was that easy!
So there you have it, some detox therapies for you to try should you be feeling in need of cleansing and refreshing. What detox therapies have you tried that you would recommend?
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