Traditional Chinese Medicine rests on a framework of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. According to the Five Element Theory, all living things, and the world at large, are comprised of these basic elements. A balance of the five elements in the body promotes good health. Each element is associated with specific meridians and organs. The Stomach and…
If the card shops are anything to go by, Valentine’s Day is almost upon us. If you want to make use of this ‘holiday’ to do something gorgeous with your children, then I have something for you. I came across this exercise last year, when my fellow IIN graduate Danielle Rae, shared how shes uses February, the month of love, to…
What makes you smile? Laugh? Go giddy with glee? It may be a walk barefoot through the grass. Or a spin on a roller coaster, a solo movie date, playing with your pet or a perfectly ripe mango (see below). So… when was the last time you did something that makes you happy? If it’s been awhile, consider this: “Happiness…
Navigating cravings with mindfulnessThere are many causes of strong cravings for certain foods or flavours that can make navigating them seem difficult. However, gaining a deeper understanding of how cravings work allows you to mindfully respond to your specific cravings. This means: Acknowledging cravings when they arise Exploring the origin of the craving with non-judgmental curiosity Proceeding from a place…
Let’s start with a quick quiz: How many portions are in bag of snack-size whole grain crackers? Or a small bottle of locally-pressed juice? Or a lunchbox pack granola bar? Hint: it’s not “one.” Often, the above products contain two or two-and-a-half servings per package. Can YOU eat just one? Sure, you could go ahead and enjoy just half the…
New year, new you? That’s right, New Year’s Resolutions are back in season! Do you have the same resolutions most years? Lose weight, drink less alcohol, drink more water, go to the gym, [insert your own list here]. Yet it’s so hard to keep them. January might start out with you pounding the streets in your new running gear, but…
The production and consumption of fermented food dates back to many thousands of years when people did not have refrigerators and did not want their seasonal surplus to go into waste. They found a way to preserve by fermenting the foods. Types of fermented foods Fermented foods and drinks are enjoyed in many cultures all over the world. Most of…
