Guest post by Lisa Hanlon, Clinical Nutritionist & Totem Eco’s Low-Tox Expert
Your morning routine sets the tone for the rest of your day, but are you unknowingly introducing toxins into your daily habits? Fortunately, a few simple swaps can transform your mornings into a healthier, low-tox ritual. Here’s how you can start your day on the right note:
1. Upgrade to a Natural Deodorant
Conventional deodorants and antiperspirants often contain harsh chemicals like aluminium, parabens, and phthalates, which can disrupt hormones and irritate the skin. Switching to a natural deodorant offers a safer way to neutralise odour without blocking your pores or exposing your body to unnecessary toxins. Totem Eco’s natural deodorant, for instance, is formulated with the very best natural and organically certified plant and mineral-based ingredients to keep you fresh all day long.
2. Opt for Natural Toothpaste
Many commercial toothpastes are filled with artificial sweeteners, dyes, and sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS), which can be tough on your gums and mouth. By choosing a natural alternative, you can still maintain excellent oral hygiene while reducing your exposure to chemicals. Look for toothpastes made with simple ingredients like baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils. These can be just as effective at keeping your teeth clean and healthy without compromising your wellbeing.
3. Switch to Organic Coffee
Many people love their morning brew, often without knowing that conventional coffee can have pesticide residues, as it’s one of the most heavily sprayed crops. Opting for organic coffee allows you to enjoy a purer, richer flavour while steering clear of these chemicals.
Organic coffee is grown without synthetic chemicals and is packed with antioxidants that support your body’s natural detox processes. Plus, choosing organic supports sustainable farming and the hardworking farmers who grow it—making your morning coffee a choice that’s both delicious and mindful.
4. Ditch Synthetic Fragrances
Perfumes, body sprays, and lotions often contain synthetic fragrances, which can include hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. These artificial scents can trigger allergies, irritate your skin, and even contribute to indoor air pollution. Instead, try switching to essential oil blends or opting for fragrance-free products. Essential oils such as lavender and sandalwood offer natural, pleasant aromas with added therapeutic benefits, providing a safer alternative to synthetic perfumes.
5. Simplify Your Skincare with Clean Ingredients
Your skin absorbs much of what you apply to it, so using products with clean, non-toxic ingredients is crucial for long-term skin health. Many conventional skincare products are loaded with preservatives, parabens, and sulphates that can be damaging over time. To detox your skincare routine, look for products that prioritise transparency and use natural, plant-based ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and shea butter.