Eat Less, Play More

 

Remember when you were a child, and you got so wrapped up in playing, imagining or creating that you didn't want to stop when it was time to eat? Do you remember leaving your meal half-finished to run off and continue playing? Children innately understand that food is secondary to what is most nutritious and primary in life: fun and play.

As adults we seem to have lost our instinct to prioritize play. In our busy world, with its emphasis on work and responsibility, to be healthy and balanced we must work on more than just our bodies; we must feed our hearts, minds and spirits.

Have you noticed that when your body, mind and spirit are engaged in a creative project or happy relationship, your reliance on food seems to decrease? Likewise, when you are unsatisfied with your relationships, your job or other areas of your life, you may depend on food to cheer, soothe or numb you. When your life is out of balance, no amount of food can feed you where you truly need nourishment. The food that we eat is very important for health and balance, but what really feeds us - a full and fulfilling life - doesn't come on a plate.

What is fun for you? What makes you light up? What excites you? Make time for it this week. Even if you don't have much time for fun, try approaching a "serious" activity with an attitude of play. This can greatly reduce stress and anxiety and bring more pleasure to your day. Take your focus off food, try adding more fun into your life and watch the magic unfold.

Food Focus: Sea Vegetables

 

Sea vegetables (seaweeds) are one of the most nutrition-packed foods on the earth. They are a highly concentrated source of minerals and contain a range of vitamins, all of which nourish you, beautify your skin, hair and nails, and help you feel grounded. They are very versatile, and can be used in sushi rolls (such as roasted nori that comes in sheets), added to soups, salads and stir-fries. In traditional Chinese healing, sea vegetables correspond to the winter season and to the kidneys, adrenal glands, bladder and reproductive organs. There has been much solid research on the heatlh benefits of sea vegetables; they reduce blood cholesterol, improve digestion, counteract obesity, strengthen bones and teeth, and contain antibiotic properties.

 

Eating too many processed foods or foods grown in mineral-depleted soil can result in a lack of minerals in the body, leading to cravings for salty or sugary foods. Adding  sea vegetables to your diet can help balance your energy levels and alleviate cravings.

 

Sea vegetables grown wild and harvested from the ocean are top quality. You can also find high quality brands in your local health food store. Commercially harvested seaweeds are easily found in Asian markets.