Our bodies themselves are perhaps the most incredible detoxification systems that exist. I see a holistic doctor, and he recently told me that, as long as our bodies are functioning properly, we could “eat a bowl full of parasites and be totally fine.” And it’s true.

The thing is, though, when we overload our own bodies with toxins – through things like unclean, processed foods; chemical-laden beauty products; alcohol; and especially negative thoughts – our systems don’t function as efficiently as they truly should. To help get ourselves back on track, it’s about eating clean, avoiding chemicals, getting enough sleep, moving our bodies, and avoiding negativity. But, since I know you already know all of that, here are four more things you can do to help move those toxins through your body so that they can be removed for good.

Yoga

In addition to helping detoxify the mind, yoga is a beautiful practice for cleansing the body. The pushing, pulling, stretching movements of every part of your body – in combination with deep, rhythmic yogic breathing – cleanses the body by helping along the removal process of waste products throughout. One of the very best yoga poses for detoxification? Downward dog.

Abhyanga

This is an ayurvedic massage performed by vigorously stroking the skin in upward motions toward the heart, using a special oil blend that corresponds to your primary dosha. According to my ayurvedic practitioner, Abhyanga “moves obstruction in the lymphatic and circulatory systems, which enhances the health of the skin, organs, and endocrine system.” Daily Abhyanga, usually performed on one’s own self, is one of the main practices in Ayurveda. If you aren’t familiar with it, though, I would suggest your first experience to be a treatment performed by a well-versed ayurvedic practitioner. It’s incredible, and you will not regret it. (You can read about my first experience with it here!)

Oil pulling

If you’re not yet aware, oil pulling is an ancient Indian practice performed by swishing a high quality oil (such as organic unrefined coconut oil) in the mouth for about 20 minutes, aiming to pull toxins from the body. Studies show that oil pulling has incredible benefits for oral health – like whitening teeth and preventing disease – but many believe that this practice can help remove toxins from the entire body, bringing overall health to a maximum. Just make sure you’re up to date with your dental visits before beginning. I recently spoke with a holistic dentist who explained to me that the presence of plaque will prevent the oil from penetrating the gums, greatly taking away from the effectiveness of the practice. (Read more about oil pulling!)

Dry brushing

This practice is similar to Abhyanga in that it stimulates the lymphatic and circulatory systems, helping to speed up the removal of metabolic waste from the body. It also offers a ton of other benefits, from unclogging the pores and exfoliating the skin, reducing the appearance of cellulite and possibly even improving digestion. All you need is a good body brush with natural bristles. Before you bathe, brush your dry skin in large, upward stroking motions, always going towards the heart – this encourages lymph flow in the proper direction. Once you’ve finished, take your shower, and emerge with smooth skin and a soothed mind. (Read more about dry brushing!)