Dietary and Lifestyle
Cultivate Daily Nourishment
“To be skilled at nurturing one’s nature is to treat disease before it arises.”
Dietary Therapy
In Chinese Medicine, food is regarded as the first medicine, it is the foundation of good health. Real, whole food provides nourishment and nutrients for your body and mind to stay healthy and thrive.
Chinese dietary therapy uses both general and individualized approaches to food to strengthen digestion, increase energy, and balance the body’s Qi to promote good health. Just like herbal therapy, each food has its own energy with specific qualities, temperature, and functions. Eating foods with a variety of colors and flavors will ensure you get all the nutrients you need.
General dietary guidelines include:
Eat in harmony with your environment by choosing fresh, whole foods that are seasonal, local, and organic
Avoid processed foods, added preservatives, and chemicals
Eat regular meals to support a healthy routine
Take the time to eat mindfully, remembering to set an intention of gratitude before each meal
Limit liquids at mealtime to a small cup of something warm. Drink the majority of your fluids between meals as to not interfere with digestion
Lifestyle Therapy
How we live is just as important as what and and how we eat. Cultivate peace of mind, make self care your standard and stay connected to others.
General lifestyle guidelines include:
Get adequate rest- sleep restores your body and sets you up for good health
Practice mindful breathing - remember to breathe deeply, slowly, and naturally. Pause and take ten full belly breaths to slow down the body and calm your whole nervous system
Incorporate regular exercise for your age and constitution- movement help maintain a strong, flexible body, and calm, peaceful mind
Cultivate loving, deep connections with self, family, friends, and community to keep your heart open and joyful
Maintain a healthy relationship to your body and your sexuality as a foundation for self-expression and joy
Connect to nature and live in harmony with it- you are a thread in the fabric of this world
