Detoxifying with Ayurveda: Simple Practices to Cleanse Before Summer

Summer is one of my favourite times of the year, maybe because my heritage is Swedish where summer is associate with long days and lots of daylight after coming out of a darker time of the year. It’s a time where we crave more lighter and vibrant energy and it’s a good way to prepare your body for this warmer season of the year.

Ayurveda offers a simple and easy detox that you can incorporate so you can transition to summer with ease. These practices gently cleanse the body, support digestion, and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated – perfect for mums juggling family, work, and everything in between!

Why Detox Before Summer?

In Ayurveda, seasonal transitions are ideal times to cleanse and balance the body. Late spring and early summer bring a rise in "Pitta" energy, the dosha associated with heat, intensity, and transformation. A gentle detox helps clear out excess "Kapha" (associated with heaviness and congestion) accumulated over the cooler months. By detoxifying now, busy mums can feel lighter, more energised, and ready to take on the summer months.

Here are some tips to make this transition easier on your body.

Rejuvenate

Epsom salt baths - Soak in an Epsom salt bath a couple of times a week to relax muscles, support detoxification, and let go of any tension. Add a few drops of peppermint or lavender essential oil for an extra cooling effect.

Tongue scraping – This is an easy way to remove ‘ama’ (toxic buildup) from the digestive tract and it improves taste and overall dental hygiene. You can buy a tongue scraper from nearest health food store or online.

Practice dry brushing – This is great for lymphatic support, encourage removal of waste from the body. Do this first thing in the morning to wake yourself up. Start at your feet and move your way upwards. Use a dry brush with natural bristles and brush in circular motions.

Oil pulling- add this into your daily oral routine. Use coconut or sesame oil to remove toxins from the mouth. Swish around in your mouth for about 5-10mins each morning before brushing your teeth.

Cleanse your body

Start the day with lemon water- I’ve mentioned this many times before, hot lemon water drink before breakfast is a great way to detox flush out toxins, it supports liver health and stimulates digestion. You can add a few slices of ginger or turmeric for an extra boost.

Cleansing ayurvedic tea- sipping herbal tea throughout your day can help flush out toxins and maintain your digestive fire without causing overheating. Try this; Boil 1 litre of water, add cumin seeds, coriander seeds and fennel seeds. Strain and sip during the day. This is cooling and good for your digestive system.

Hydration - Aloe is known for its cooling and detoxifying properties. A small amount of aloe juice in water (1-2 tablespoons) can have a soothing effect and is easy to add to a daily hydration routine.

Detoxifying foods – incorporate watermelon, cucumber and berries to keep you hydrated and gently detoxifying. Your green leafy vegetables, celery and fennel supports digestion and cleansing. Spices like fennel, mint and coriander aids digestion without overheating. Aim for simple, nourishing meals like salads, smoothies and light soups. Eat plant based where possible with plenty of fibre and hydration for detox.

Recharge your mind

Simplify your schedule – try to slow down and avoid stress. A very busy schedule counteracts your detoxification process. A slower more mindful pace helps your body to feel lighter and more balance. Do some journalling or include a breathing exercise, these mindful moments help you de-stress and relax.

Prioritise rest and relaxation - Fit in a few mini-breaks during your day – even a few minutes to close your eyes, take some deep breaths, or stretch can help relieve stress and refresh your energy levels. Set up a calming evening routine that lets you unwind. Consider gentle stretching, light reading, or aromatherapy with cooling essential oils like peppermint or sandalwood.

Lighten your mind and space - Incorporate a few moments of mindfulness or gratitude into your daily routine to detoxify stress and negative energy. Whether it’s a gratitude journal, meditation, or just a few deep breaths, this will leave you feeling lighter and more at ease. Set aside a few hours or even a full day on the weekend to disconnect from devices. Digital detox time can help you recharge, be present, and reconnect with family or nature.

Move your body

Focus on grounding and cooling poses like Forward Fold, Wide-Legged Child’s Pose, and Seated Forward Bend, which calm the mind and support gentle detox. Stick to slower flows and avoid fast-paced or heat-building sequences. A short 10–15-minute gentle flow is enough to help you detoxify and stay centred.

Detoxifying with Ayurveda doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. For busy mums, incorporating these small yet effective changes can make a big difference in how you feel as summer approaches. From starting the day with lemon water to practicing simple cooling yoga poses, these gentle practices will help you stay light, energized, and ready to embrace the sunny days ahead. Give yourself the gift of a little extra care this season – your body and mind will thank you!