Self-care
Self-care is very important in the world of naturopathy, and there are many tools, applications and spa treatments at our disposal to facilitate this process.
One of the most important protocols at our disposal is the sauna in all its forms, and there are an array of forms now. Our go-to would still be conventional alpine saunas - the hot wooden box with the ability to produce steam. Research presented by Dr. Joseph Pizzorno on the importance of saunas and sweating - cardiac output is increased by around 70%, metabolic rate and oxygen intake is increased similar to moderate exercise. There was a reduction of oxidative stress, reduction in LDL, muscle relaxation and increase in beta-endorphins which accounts for the pleasure felt during and after sessions.
Sweating during saunas releases many metals and chemicals e.g. cadmium, lead, mercury, PCB's pthalates, BPA, DDT etc. according to research.
Another important self-care routine is dry skin brushing. The dry skin brush takes just 5 minutes to do, best used before a shower, stimulates surface blood flow, movement of lymphatic fluid and removes dead skin cells allowing for healthy excretion of sebum and sweat. The ability to sweat in a healthy way takes some of the load off of the kidneys, as some toxins are excreted through the skin, that would otherwise have to go through the kidneys.
