Are you looking to a healthier you in 2015?
Here we are at the beginning of another year, caught up in the flurry of activity and new beginnings. Health and happiness do not magically appear, they are cultivated day in and day out. You know the drill – eat more vegetables, stress less, EXERCISE, sleep more, eat regularly, meditate………..Oh my dear, the list can drag on and on with you getting the feeling that you are overwhelmed and, dare I say feeling inadequate and guilty for what you are NOT doing.
So, how about we start with a little mercy and a deep breath?! I am trained in the principles of Chinese medicine, a holistic form of medicine based on the observations of nature. Many of you are most familiar with acupuncture and the prescription of herbal remedies. But, let’s get back to nature and the natural rhythm of life, seasons and how that can help you create a healthier you in 2015!
I am going to give you a theme for each month, a jumping off point of awareness which you can then explore for yourselves. There are so many resources for you, online, in the grocery store, in your community, with your friends and family. I assure you that if you start paying attention to what is around you and how you interact with it, you will be on a road of cultivating your healt
Onto a great year.
Let’s get started month by month!
January
Begin with the end in mind! Think about where you want to be at the end of this year. How do you want to feel? Do you want more energy? Less pain? Sleep better? Feel calmer and more balanced? I What would it be like for you, for your life? Let yourself daydream, feel it and then write it down and make sure to keep it close. Start making an action plan.
February
Love yourself and others. All around the world cultures celebrate the moving from the dark of winter towards spring with festivals. How can you ” light up” your life in this typically dreary month? What makes your heart sing (besides chocolate)? Make a date with yourself to partake of some activity you LOVE whether it be time with yourself, friends, family, nature or art.
March
Prepare for spring by lightening up your daily diet. Go through your pantry and get rid of the processed foods, the sugar, the white flour. Add in new greens such as dandelion, nettles, chives, spinach to clear out the heaviness of winter eating.
April
Let go of the old bring in the new! Spring is a great time to do a week long nutritional cleanse. Look for cleanses such as Metagenics or Isagenix week long cleanses. Get your naturopathic doctor or health care provider to help you.
May
Eat more organic and local food! The farmers markets are beginning to burst forth. Try one or two new vegetables per week and try a meat free day per week. Taste the difference!
June
Maybe time to break a habit? Coffee, sugar, bread, eating late at night. 21-days to change a habit. Pick one and do it! Then tell someone about it, for support! You will feel proud.Time to include the berries and first fruits of summer, they keep you hydrated and cool.
July
Are you sleeping?Summer is exciting, the days are longer, so how is your sleep? Time to re-calibrate. Stop the electronics an hour or two before bed. Have a cup of soothing herbal tea. Relax your mind, breathe. And, make sure to get to sleep before 11pm for optimal recharging.
August
Prepare for autumn!Stop eating the cold, icy treats of summer. Add some simple cooking into your daily diet -even simple steamed greens make a wonderful addition to every meal.
September
Change! Time to begin protecting yourself from colds and flu. Stay hydrated. Drink rosehips tea, hot lemon and water. Sleep, move, and eat as best you can. Take a good multi-vitamin and check your Vitamin D to prepare for winter.
October
Water! Did you know that drinking half your weight in water is the common recommendation?Yes, it is. Pay attention and substitute water every time you go for something to drink – your thinking will be clearer, your energy better!
November
Tune up your health with acupuncture! Did you know acupuncture can support a healthy immune system and reduce stress (as well as minimize your physical aches and pains)? Look for an NCCAOM certified acupuncturist and try it! You will feel so much better. Many insurance plans now cover acupuncture, so be sure to ask.
December
How are you? Look back over your January goals. What is different? What progress have you made? Acknowledge that every change you have made is cultivating health.
Congratulate yourself on what you have accomplished and get ready to begin again.
About Ellen Goldsmith:
Ellen Goldsmith, licensed acupuncturist and co-founder of Pearl Natural Health, is a recognized educator, health advocate, and practitioner in the field of Chinese medicine,holistic and integrative health care. She is dedicated to educate and motivate those who choose to revitalize and transform their lives through health. Contact her through her website: pearlnaturalhealth.com
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