Welcome to Pearls of Wisdom!
Here, we offer inspiration and tips you can apply to your daily routine to help you synchronize your activities with the seasons. The Chinese calendar divides the year into 24 seasons, not just 4. This nuanced approach acknowledges the subtle changes in the environment, taking cues from nature to create fluid lifestyle habits that promote wellbeing.
25,000 years ago Confucius said “if it’s not in season I will not eat it.”
Indeed, aligning your daily activities of eating, sleeping and self-care with natural rhythms of each new season makes sense. It will promote health all year round.
We are already into cold and flu season in Northern California and have experienced poor air quality from ongoing fires. Here are some tips to arm yourself against cold season and harmful effects of poor air quality on the lungs.
1. Honey lemon water
Pour boiled water (not microwaved) over a fresh squeezed Myer lemon slice and add a teaspoon of local honey.
BENEFITS: strengthens the immune system and clears the liver of toxins. I It also moistens the lung.
2. Steam in shower with eucalyptus
Place a bowl of water with 5 drops essential oil of eucalyptus in the shower (away from the water stream of shower) and turn the shower on hot. Allow the steam to mix with the essence of eucalyptus and breathe deeply.
BENEFITS: opens lungs and encourages clearing of toxins.
3. Poached Pears
Peel and core pears and place them in a lasagne pan. Fill the pan with 2-inches of water, covering the pears. Bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes.
Remove pears from the water and place each one in a shallow bowl or plate. Sprinkle with cinnamon and serve.
BENEFITS: Moistens the lung and helps to soothe a dry lingering cough.