By simple definition, to detox or detoxify is to eliminate, get rid or cleanse of toxins. Many areas of our life can benefit from a cleansing and purifying routine, because our lives are full of pollutants and toxins. Apart from the obvious culprits like alcohol, coffee or too much red meat, did you know they come in other forms too? Negative emotions, stress and frustration also add to your toxin levels.

Detox your home

Be a clutter buster. Some things just have to be tackled daily – washing dishes, the post, bills and e-mails. Get those done first thing and feel your sense of control returning. Anything that causes you stress, anxiety or is associated with negativity or bad memories should be sold, stored or given away. Items that make you smile should stay.

Detox your wardrobe

Divide your cupboards into four piles – clothes that don’t fit anymore, items which are out of fashion, clothes which you wear for special occasions and everyday favourites. Ditch the first two piles and keep the other two, checking if anything needs repairing or dry-cleaning before putting them back.

Detox your finances

Get on top of your finances. Face any unpaid bills and draw up a budget for the rest of the year.

Detox your fridge

Out with the additive-laden ready-made meals and in with the fresh fruit and vegetables. Fill your fridge with healthy, tasty snacks and keep it well stocked so the temptation to order take outs is reduced.

Detox your address book

Think about whom you really enjoy spending time with and whether you see them enough. It may sound harsh but there are lots of people you cram into your social schedule whom you see out of habit rather than real desire.

Detox your car

Clear out those cool drinks cans and sweets wrappers, vacuum your car and give the body work a good wash. Now is the time to get any niggling problems seen to, and to check the tyres and oil.

Detox your desk

Can’t see your computer from the huge pile of paperwork? Take a few minutes to put everything in its place. Face that filing, organise your in-tray and stash stationery away – soon you will feel ready to tackle any task.

Detox your calendar

Don’t feel pressurised to go to everything you’re invited to – everyone understands if you say no occasionally. Look at your diary for the next few months and write in time-out time. An hour a day; a day a week; a weekend a month and holiday downtime. This way you have a date with rest and relaxation.

Detox your body

Rather than focussing on cutting out the bad stuff try concentrating on building healthy habits by adding healthy things to your diet day by day. Increase your water intake, eat fruit for breakfast, walk for a few minutes and have a variety of vegetables for dinner. Maintain healthy habits like these and in no time you would feel transformed.

Detox your mind

Give your busy brain a clear-out. Try meditation or visualisation to free your mind of anxiety and don’t let yourself become consumed by negative emotions – these are the most draining of all.

 de Villiers

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