Living in a meditation and retreat centre for some years I experienced this: we seldom cooked with
salt. Among the simplicity of the retreat life (no tv, media, sugar, meat, coffee, etc) the unseasoned
vegetables were a memorable lesson in the benefits of detoxing. We often received requests to
share recipes from retreatants curious about how we grew such delicious carrots. The flavours were
more intense, the broccoli more vibrant. Without the overwhelming and numbing distraction of the
salt we could savour the produce in it’s natural state. To experience the depth of the tastes we
slowed down and removed distraction – and were rewarded with the joy of the conscious eating.
When we unplug from the distractions of our “salt” – our habitual behaviours and loud chattering of
our thoughts – we have an opportunity to discover what lies beneath by reconnecting to our true
selves. So many people come to our mindfulness workshops and retreats looking for ways to soften
the anxiety and pressure that they feel gripped by. Detoxing, taking a break from unhealthy habits,
can help us release this tight attachment to tension. Noticing the peace that sits in the stillness
beyond distraction transforms a holiday into an experience of mindful awareness that is revitalising.
The anxiety and stress dissolves and instead of seeking happiness externally, your own intrinsic joy
arises from within. No, it probably won’t be easy to give up the facebook scrolling or caffeine or
meat (or whatever you may be detoxing from) but it will be worth it. Coming home to your daily life
will feel less claustrophobic, even as you reengage with your daily habits.