Life outside
We might all be isolating right now, but nothing changes the fact that Spring is here! Just look outside (or watch a nature documentary if you are a city dweller based far away from parkland) for beautiful signs that this season is all about growth and renewal.
When it comes to keeping well, simple strategies are the best. Fresh air is crucial and Ireland is blessed with pristine air quality so make the most of it. We need oxygen to function; not only does it boost the immune system, it supports better digestion and supports serotonin production (which means a happier mood!). Even for people who can't walk very far, it is still possible to get out of the house and enjoy some deep breathing. Anyone with injuries or physical restrictions can sit outside with a blanket wrapped around their legs and lower back (to keep the area around the kidneys warm).
Natural light is important too; we are just like plants! One medical study found that patients had a better recovery after surgery because of regular exposure to natural light. They even had lower pain levels, which meant that they needed less medication; isn't that fascinating? Maybe we all take our health for granted at times, but let's not underestimate the power of fresh air and natural light.
You don't have to copy me; stretching outside wearing 5 layers in relaxation mode is not for everyone (I am not joking about the 5 layers; this photo was taken in Ireland and I am often cold!). The point is that being outside is good for you whether you walk, jog, sit or lie down. Why no shoes or socks? That morning I had been practicing some grounding, which is simply standing or walking slowly, connecting to the earth through the soles of the feet. It feels lovely and it calms the central nervous system.
The power of sound
Not everyone lives in a live in a green area with birdsong as a soundtrack. For people who don't live close to nature, walking while listening to music is another option. To drown out the sounds of traffic or other external noise, playing instrumental music through headphones can be more calming than songs. When the mind does not have lots of words to contend with it can relax more. Low frequency sound waves are the most soothing; search for binaural beats online to reduce anxiety. As all my yoga students know, listening intently to appropriate sounds is soul food.
Breathe and believe
To enhance your time in the fresh air, pranayama (yoga breathing) is deeply effective. It reduces stress, eases aches and pains, detoxes the body and is the fastest route to attaining a feeling of rejuvenation. Practiced outside or indoors, yoga breathing is pure medicine.
Spring stingers
Nettles offer so much goodness including vitamins A, B C and K. They also contain minerals like iron, calcium and magnesium. In other words, nettles are a great source of nutrients. Pick the smallest, young tender tips on top. Wear gloves if you want to avoid the sting, or hold the stalks. I only pick a small handful at a time and use the fresh leaves immediately in tea or cooking. Nettles are a great tonic, however you use them.
Healing foods
Food is a powerful medicine but emotional eating is not good for health. Try fruit to satisfy the sugar cravings. I am so grateful for sweet oranges imported from our Spanish neighbors! Springtime is smoothie time. The one pictured below was made by combining banana, apple, ginger, a pinch of black pepper, pure spring water and lots of turmeric to reduce inflammation in the body.
Whether you are a meat-eater, veggie or vegan, fresh produce is the best. At a recent medical conference I was saddened to hear the link between processed foods, stress and disease being highlighted once again. Cooking does not have to be expensive or complicated. If you don't usually prepare food from scratch, this could be your time to give it a go. What's the best thing that could happen? Every little action counts when it comes to your health. I call it 5 alive:
Fresh air
fresh food
drinking plenty of water
exercise
relaxation
Paying attention to these 5 will do you the world of good. Gently does it.
If you need support (yoga, meditation, relaxation or cooking) I am teaching one-to-one online. As usual you can call /text 085 2441321 before 4pm on weekdays or send a message through the front page of this website to request some tuition time.
