In Ayurveda, an ancient medical science from India, toxins that accumulate in the body are called ama. These toxins result from the accumulation of impurities in our bodies as a result of improper diet, chronic stress, and exposure to chemical pollutants in the products we engage with and environments within which we operate. Symptoms of ama accumulation are lethargy, low energy, generalized aches and pains, lack of mental clarity, heaviness in the body, digestive problems (such as constipation, gas, bloating, acidity, heartburn…), weakened immune system, frequent colds and sinus infections, coated tongue, body odor, etc.

Ayurveda recommends a cleanse to accompany a change in season, to clear + open physiological and psychological channels and to rid the body of this ama accumulation. Spring is an especially important time of the year when nature re-awakes from the long, heavy winter and provides us with all the food- and herb-tools we need to rid the body of excess fats and heavy proteins which keep toxins bound in bodily tissues! A Spring cleanse helps the body to identify stored fat tissue as useable energy, retraining and firing up digestive capacity within the GI tract, bodily tissues, and the mind.

During this hour long class, I will introduce participants to the traditional Ayurvedic Spring Cleanse, called Panchakarma, daily routines, herbs, as well as a kitchari recipe that are satisfying to the palate and detoxifying for your entire organism. You will learn not only why it is important to detoxify the internal organs and the sense organs, but how to do it yourself with a step-by-step practical guide. This is a great opportunity to learn more about joining in on The Treehouse’s first group kitchari cleanse beginning March 21.