Musings from the Mat
Cultivating Balance
Cultivating balance in life is the most important act of true love we can express for ourselves. Self-care--an essential survival skill—consists of any activity we pursue deliberately to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
Rest is the Story
There is a concept in Chinese Medicine that wind has the power to bring illness into an unprecedented body. A “cold” in Chinese medical vocabulary is called a "wind cold.” As the weather changes, the body must adjust, and outward energy begins to move in.
The Power of Olive Oil
Studies associate olive oil intake with a decreased risk of heart disease, as it supports us with antioxidants like vitamin E and beta-carotene, and unique molecules of hydroxytyrosol (HT), to strengthen cellular walls.
Seasonal Detox and Cleanser
Since childhood, my family has used herbal elixirs and tonics to help heal the body and mind, and I remember my beloved Grandmother making strong ginger root tea for menstrual cramps or snow fungus and goji berries for winter health.I made an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant drink that has helped me fight the flu, colds, and bronchial attacks in Winter.
Moon in May is Buddha Day
Growing up in a traditional Chinese household, we had many cultural celebrations and paid respect to ancestors by lighting lanterns and candles, offerings flowers, incense and fruit throughout the year. In the Buddhist tradition, one of the most auspicious and significant celebrations happens every May on the night of the full moon, with people all over the world celebrating the birth, enlightenment and death of the Buddha.
If you grew up in the ‘60s and ‘70’s and were around the Whole Earth Catalog, you might remember nut loaves. They were one of my favorites and felt like really yummy goodness. It’s a great vegetarian option for the holidays, and sometimes called vegetarian “meat loaf “. Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy for a modern traditional wholesome meal.