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Community Corner

Finding a Balance During the Winter Months

Some tips to keep your immune system and body temperature up to par as the temperature drops.

Energetically, the winter months in New York tend to represent a time of reflection and conservation of one's "chi" (or core balance).  It is essential that we provide time and added rest, coupled with adequate nutrition during the "ebb cycle" of the four seasons here.

Most people do this instinctively, however it is easy to fall prey to the bustle of the holidays and pace of the year ending festivities.  Please be mindful of the wear and tear factor that this time of year can bring to bear as we navigate these waters.  As simple as it sounds, turning in an hour earlier than usual can save the day in many regards.  As there is no substitute for the healing factor of rest and delicious sleep, what a nice thing to do for us adding a bounce to our step … and it doesn't cost anything! All we need to do is render this conscious thought into motion and marvel at the beautiful results.

Some people actually thrive at this time of the year, with the cool weather and all.  Technically, viral, fungal and bacterial proliferation is mostly at its lowest rung now.  The difficulty for some is that their immune systems are also very sluggish and susceptive to "bugs" which would not normally have the opportunity to land on them.  So one must find the balance between exposure and tolerance.  The good news is that with a little bit of attentiveness we may maneuver through the difficult patches and enjoy the winter with flair.

Believe it or not, occasionally airing out our homes a few times each week can be so helpful in recharging the good quality of air and freshening up the abode for all inhabitants.  If it is acceptable to all parties, burning some good quality incense or sage (or cedar, lavender, eucalyptus … to name a few) in the living quarters can be very clarifying as well.  It comes as incense wands, cones, the dried herb itself, as aromatherapy grade essential oil (which can be used with a modest diffuser) or in candle form, etc.  As with anything, quality ingredients and good practices make all the difference.

Nutritionally, our meals should be tailored for individual needs at this time.  The food choices should be especially supportive and nourishing.  Any foods that are grating and costly in terms of core temperature stability should be shunned, such as eating foods taken directly from the refrigerator and consumed.  Avoid ice and cold beverages and ice cream when possible.  These concepts are not written in stone, but you get the rough idea.

Try to eat those foods that are locally grown and appropriate for us based on their being cultivated within a reasonable distance from our homes.  Not only does supporting local growers make good sense, but historically we fare well embracing foods that are germane to our surroundings, all things equal.

Daily meditation, yogic practices and exercise are wonderfully helpful in centering one's force of will during times of planetary stress.  Cold weather and brisk winds, with snow and all the sight and sound affects that correspond with winter can have an impact on us.  Please be aware of this as we experience the joy of living each day in these parts.

Warm regards,
Steve Siegelwaks


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