Chinese medicine emphasizes the importance of a concept called Yang Sheng. It means to nourish, nurture, or preserve life.
The purpose of Yang Sheng is to maintain health and achieve longevity on a mind | body | spirit level. The idea is to look at wellness as a lifestyle and live accordingly. Health preservation (rather than dis-ease treatment) is a central tenant of Chinese medicine. Ideally, we are living in a way that prevents illness instead of treating ailments when they arise.
Disease prevention is not a common mindset or practice in Western culture, but it's never too late to begin. With all of the health recommendations we have access to, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. In reality, there are an infinite number of “right answers” when it comes to health and nothing is a one-size-fits-all solution. Use these foundational concepts, listen to your body and get acupuncture. You’ll be on the right track in no time.
Prioritise a whole-foods, nutrient-dense diet, because food is medicine.
Avoid processed foods and added sugar whenever possible because they increase inflammation within the body leading to poor energy, brain fog and digestive discomfort.
Incorporate herbs and spices into each meal as they help improve the body's natural detoxification system.
Incorporate daily movement, for your mind and your body.
Sedentary lifestyles are associated with a higher risk of depression, anxiety, and a weakened immune system. It doesn't matter how you move, pick whatever feels right to your body: walking, yoga, gardening, weights, sports, qigong, dancing... The options are endless, just remember to move.
Breathe.
Deep, slow, rhythmic breathing into the belly stimulates the vagus nerve (the gut brain connection). Activating the vagus nerve incites the parasympathetic nervous system which is your rest-and-digest response. When you are in this state, your heart rate slows, your body calms and you feel better.
Get adequate rest.
Sleep is the foundation of mental and physical health so create a routine around going to bed. This can be as simple as tooth brushing, face washing, fluffing pillows, and lights out. Or it can be a more luxurious routine such as a bath, intimate time with a loved one, or reading a chapter or two of a book. The important thing is to find something that feels right and can be done regularly so that your body recognises when it's time to wind down.
Spend time in nature. Forest bathe!
Between work, transportation and urban living environments, we humans have become increasingly disconnected from nature. Time outdoors can improve focus, inspire creativity, reduce stress and anxiety, boost your immune system, lower your blood pressure, improve sleep quality and benefit general well-being. Take a lunchtime stroll, picnic in the park, or finally take that hike in the bush. Any amount of time outside will benefit your physical and emotional health.
Foster healthy relationships.
Our social life greatly impacts our health. Be mindful of how your body and mind feel after social interactions. Are you motivated? Fatigued? Happy? Inspired? Agitated? Pay attention and choose to spend your energy on those who fill you up.
Be well. See you in the clinic!