During summer I tend to simply enjoy life a little bit more than usual. Life slows down, I sit down and rest more, eat more and stress less. My everyday routines and habits change and I’m thankful for that. It’s my time to sit back and enjoy. However, now when it’s time to speed up the pace a bit I want to feel fresh and energetic again. So, I’ve made some small changes that help me get back on track and clear my mind as well as my body.

Go to bed early. My most important rule for myself is to go to bed at least one hour earlier. This for me is the best start towards a healthier life. I wind down earlier, sleep better, eat less crap during the evening and wake up feeling rested. I also crave less coffee and sugar during the day which is my biggest fight to concur.

Shower in the morning. I’ve always been someone who loves my morning showers. It’s the best way to wake up and gives me a clean and fresh feeling that stays with me all day. During summer I ofter go to sauna at night and fall asleep with wet hair. It has it’s own charm of course, but I still love the whole process of waking up before the kids and take my own precious time in the shower early in the morning.

Sweat it out. I am a firm believer that sweating in one way or another is super important. It has a clear impact on my skin, body and mind. It cleanses and detoxifies and helps me keep my back and neck in check. I like to “kill two birds with one stone” and exercise and sweat at the same time. Hot yoga is my all time favorite because it strengthens my body, forces me to breathe and slow down, works as therapy and sweats it all out.

Stay active. I am active everyday. Either I take a walk, exercise at the gym or choose the stairs. I’ve made myself a promise to always play with my children over sitting on a bench nearby. I always walk everywhere if my schedule allows and simply try to always choose the more active alternative.

Drinking more water. I am a very thirsty person but I haven’t always been good at drinking water. I’ve trained myself to become a master at keeping myself hydrated. Drinking water is crucial for every bodily function and by drinking enough we also minimize false cravings for food.

Detox. My detox is all about eating healthy and clean food. Lots of greens, berries, fruits and most importantly home cooked meals. I skip alcohol, pop, excessive salt, sweeteners and try my best to eat less sugar.

Relaxation in any way is cleansing. It cleans my head from clutter and negative thoughts and relaxation can be so many things. It can be anything from getting a pampering massage, evening out with friends, the possibility to sleep in or completely choose to ignore all the should’s and musts and stay home in bed, watch a movie and eat cake. Even the healthiest and most ambitious set of rules are meant to be broken every now and then.

How do you cleanse for fall?

Pictures by Juuli Rönkä