Holistic Nutrition: How to REALLY
Nourish Ourselves By Kelly McInnes
I
t is not a new concept that achieving vibrant health hinges upon proper nutrition. What exactly is involved in being properly nourished is, in this age of information overload, open to interpretation. There are as many theories as there are experts to define them and they often contradict one another. MY goal in this article is to promote habits that will enhance
your health and quality of life, regardless of the specific food philosophy you may or may not subscribe to. It is my opinion that what you eat is not the only important piece (as in attaching yourself to a specific dietary theory), but rather keeping a few choice toxins off your plate and minding how you feel through- out your day is most crucial. Following my protocol cleans things up to allow you to be high functioning on mental, emotional and physical levels to easily communicate with your own guidance (or trust your instincts) then be lead accordingly. The tips I have chosen come from what I view as the most helpful and necessary additions to the average American lifestyle, and those that my clients have reported as the most helpful and life changing.
Support Your temple: 1. Oil Pulling: This Ayurvedic technique involves rinsing
your mouth with a few tablespoons of oil (coconut or sesame) for 15-20 minutes. This simple practice can pull toxins, mucous and bacteria from the blood stream (therefore supporting the body’s self healing mechanisms), whiten teeth, strengthen the gums, remove dark circles from under your eyes, even improve memory and incite deeper sleep. This should be done every morning on an empty stomach, right after brushing your teeth. 2. Dry Skin Brushing: The skin is our largest organ and has a huge role in detoxification. Every day it can excrete 2lbs of tox- ins, but if your pores are clogged these poisons stay in the body and can overburden the kidneys. An easy way to support your daily detox is using a dry skin brush before your shower to scrub away dead cells and stimulate the lymphatic system (your lymph system is like a filter for your blood and a very important part of
24 Essential Living Maine ~ July/August 2014
your immune system). Dry skin brushing keeps that filter clean, reduces cellulite, supports release of toxins and gives your skin a healthy glow.
Spiritual Pursuits
1. Uplift Other People: An important part of the human experience is connection to others. Remembering that you have the potential to enhance the lives of those you come in contact with can transform your life. This exercise is not to fix anyone or take responsibility for their emotions. Simply experiment with how it feels to view your interactions as opportunities to have a positive effect. As you practice this and shine your light brighter, the uplifting you feel will be significant. Your contribution could be in the form of a hug or listening ear, or simply smiling at a stranger and sending out happy thoughts. 2. Practice Gratitude: The ability to appreciate one’s life increases hormones that are important for health. Studies show that the practice of gratitude for as little as three minutes a day, will release the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (or DHEA) into the system and it will remain active in the body for up to 8 hours. DHEA is coined the youth hormone as it alkalizes the body, supports immunity, enhances memory and alleviates depression. It is also the counter-hormone to cortisol (the stress hormone that raises blood pressure, creates imbalances in blood sugar and suppresses thyroid function). Before beginning your day, sit in bed and ponder things you appreciate for at least 3 minutes. You will notice the flow of your day is smoother, that it becomes easier to find things to feel gratitude for and enjoy all the physiological benefits.
Nurture Your Cells 1. Drink CCF Tea: This is another Ayurvedic gift that helps
with sugar cravings, balances mood, and also helps with mineral metabolism. Mix equal parts organic cumin, coriander and fennel seeds (roughly ½ tsp) in 6 cups of water. Boil for ten
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