Tired? Stressed out? Here’s how to renew your health and spirit for 2017.
Chinese New Year will be celebrated this Saturday, January 28th. This year marks the year of the rooster according to the Chinese zodiac, and more specifically, the Fire Rooster.
If you are born under this sign, you’re known for being trustworthy, possessing a strong sense of time, and a responsible work ethic according to Chinese traditions.
However, while roosters are pretty responsible, rooster years (1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017), are unlucky for you if you’re born in one.
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So, does that mean bad health for roosters in 2017? Not necessarily. It’s all about balance.
In western medicine, health is most often thought of in terms of the physical body.
Evidence suggests that the spiritual element of our health though, is also perhaps equally important in the equation of longevity and quality of life.
And so, in an effort to balance things out, let’s look at the spirit for a moment.
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In Chinese medicine, the Shen is the spirit or mind. Traditionally, it’s composed of 5 aspects: wood- hun, fire—shen, earth-yi, metal-po, and water-zhi.
According to chinesemedicineliving.com, ‘Shen’ refers to our subconscious mind, mental health, mental functioning and our “presence”.
How can you keep it alive and well in 2017?
Clevelandclinic.org suggests that you unplug from electronics to enjoy one hour of silence each day, and reconnect with old hobbies as a way to nourish your spirit.
Taking up a hobby is a great way of carving out de-stressing time for your self.
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The site also recommends that you seek out friends more often and have a coffee or tea to relax.
Also, don’t forget to take time to read, have a long hot bath and or watch your favorite movie. It’s all about taking time to rejuvenate and connect.
Keep your mind and body healthy for a solid tomorrow. Happy Chinese New Year!
Photo credit: Siam Vector/Shutterstock
