FINDING BALANCE

The basis of all Chinese medical theory is the concept of balance. Optimal balance is represented by the Yin Yang, a symbol that balances light and dark, rest and activity.
In Chinese medicine, if something is too warm, we cool it. If something is too wet, we dry it. Ultimately, the practitioner hopes to restore balance to the body and bring it back to homeostasis. The human body is magnificently designed to cleanse, power, and mend itself on a continuous basis. If we become imbalanced in some way, usually due to our lifestyle, our body begins to function less efficiently. Many Americans are like a car that has gone a long time without an oil change or a tune-up. They spend the majority of their time pushing themselves, and then crash.

By taking the steps to correct the imbalances in your life, you can avoid many of the complications that come with long-term misuse. How can you find balance in your everyday life? Take simple steps, make small realistic changes, and be patient with yourself! There is no right or wrong way to live, but by following some simple steps you can live a more optimally!

• Take stock of your routine: we all have daily habits which affect our health overall. Take a moment to jot down what you spend your time on everyday. Driving, sitting, working, running errands. See what types of activities occupy most of your time and consider whether or not they lean too far in one direction. Make a commitment to schedule in times/activities that will lean you back toward center. For example, if you sprint out of bed in the morning and immediately check emails, then spend your day at a high-stress job, you are likely exhausted at the end of the day. After taking stock, you may realize that the majority of your time is spent in full-throttle, and you could choose to schedule in some down-time. Could you listen to relaxing music during your commute? Perhaps eating a picnic lunch outside, rather than working through your lunch, could help balance your day. Could you schedule a few evenings a week where you turn off your phone or computer and go for a walk instead? Schedule in some self-care time to get some exercise, spend time with loved ones, or eat a good meal. Try to find ways in which the majority of your time is not dominated by one single type of activity.
• Find natural gaps: Most people that I talk to complain about not having enough hours in the day to get things done, particularly when they are faced with adding self-care to their routine. With so many deadlines and obligations, how can anyone find the time to meditate or exercise? I have found it helpful to find the “natural gaps.” Instead of checking your email first thing in the morning, take a few minutes to center yourself instead. You could start your day by choosing to feel grateful, and imagining the accomplishments you will achieve. If you have a few minutes of down time at work, instead of checking your Facebook, you could do some stretches. You can take a few deep belly breaths when you are stopped at a stoplight. At bed time, you can mentally make a list of 5 things you are grateful for, and fall asleep happy.

We will never be perfect, but we can all make small changes that point us in a better direction!