We asked Vicky Vlachonis, a pain management expert whose clients include Gwyneth Paltrow and Cameron Diaz and author of The Body Doesn't Lie, to share her secrets to getting back on track mentally and physically.
The issue: You've been eating at weird hours, sampling pastries all over Paris and drinking too much champagne at parties—and now you're feeling bloated and lethargic.
The fix: "Foods high in sugar, wheat and cow's milk—as well as acidic foods—can cause bloating. Introducing probiotics and fermented foods such as yogurt, miso and kimchi into your diet can help bolster the good bacteria in your gut and reduce that bloated feeling. Prebiotic foods, such as asparagus, bananas, steel cut oats, Manuka honey and lentils, feed those good bacteria and sustain their healthy levels, helping regulate your digestion."
The issue: You haven't been to a spin class in a month and you're having trouble getting motivated.
The fix: "If getting in shape seems a daunting challenge, try my Morning Glory routine. This 15-minute self-care sequence gently nudges you back into the mindset of living a healthier, more active life. Begin your day with a glass of warm water and the juice of half a lemon instead of coffee. Then do the 5 Tibetan Rites, a gentle exercise routine that helps you be mindful of your body. Follow that with dry brushing to improve your lymphatic drainage, improve circulation and reduce cellulite. Then finish off the routine with a warm shower, ending with 10 seconds of bracing cold water to get a fresh, energizing start to your day."
The issue: Two words: jet lag.
The fix: "Sleep is your body's most important, efficient and effective process to detox and replenish your energy stores. Here are my three tips for ensuring a good night's sleep. First, stay hydrated by drinking purified water throughout the day, but stop drinking three hours before going to bed to avoid disrupting your sleep with nighttime bathroom visits. Second, take a relaxing bath with Epsom salts and add some drops of frankincense or sandalwood oil to the water. Take this time to clear your mind and release the stress of the day. Third, the body cools down at night and warms up again for awakening so keep your bedroom cool. Set thethermostat to 78° or leave a window slightly open to avoid triggering early wakeups or insomnia. "
The issue: You feel a cold coming on.
The fix: "A Liver Flush Smoothie is a great way to cleanse your body and allow your immune system to heal. During three consecutive days, right after your Morning Glory warm water with lemon, drink a smoothie of grapefruit, lemon, olive oil, garlic and ginger. Drinking cleansing teas such as nettle, fennel or peppermint throughout the day will also release toxins and help bring you back into your body. "
