In the 60s, Star Trek was one of my favorite shows, and Spoc's Vulcan Salute, Live Long and Prosper 🖖 a greeting I loved to offer! What joy to discover this clip on his childhood experience with this blessing!
My daughter's European doctor has a deep interest in practices and foods that support general health and longevity. Several areas around the world are known for these, including parts of Japan.
In this video, Sachiaki Takamiya talks about different ways we can protect our gut health, which in turn enhances our general health.
Many of these concepts are familiar and ones I already incorporate into my life. Living on the West Coast, I have enjoyed rice, Miso (and yes, tofu!) for decades.
Moderate movement - for lifelong benefit, it's ideal if your practices are both enjoyable and not overly strenuous! I do 3-6 minutes of Japanese morning exercises several times a week. Exercising the joints, arms and legs for 6-10 minutes early in the day 'turns on' lymph flow - increasing the benefits of movement the rest of the day!
I also enjoy Qigong, Breema, Dance to the directions (Cherokee).gardening, walking and dance, .... and encourage other folks to find movement they enjoy!
Sleep and stress - Sachiaki reminds us that getting adequate sleep is helpful for general health. And keep manageable stress at a minimum - slow down! Enjoying evening light by going outside at around sunset helps activate melatonin production! If you're a gardener, this is a great time to take a walk through the yard.
Gadugi ᎦᏚᎩ - is a Cherokee word for community/ mutual support.
For stress management, engaging with friends and community in non competitive ways and volunteering are wonderful. In addition to book groups, dance, choir and church, I participate in a weekly drum circle.
Fermented and cultured food support healthy gut bacteria I've made yogurt with coconut Organic milk for over a decade, and following Sachiaki's lead, have begun making Natto.
I eat mainly plant strong, and fresh local organic produce which is avaiable throughout the year both from my garden and our local and farmers markets. (Western Oregon) Fresh herbs grace every meal.
I also get local, heritage lamb that's pasture raised at our farmers market, and wild caught fish. I love Miso soup, and eat organic rice and quinoa and other gluten free whole grains regularly. (There are many reasons not to eat gluten - I stopped in 2009!)
Expressing gratitude to all those who brought the food to your plate is a wonderful tradition to follow, and common in many spiritual traditions.
Ichiju sansai - having a variety of foods and condiments in small bowls at each meal. I love meals with Japanese friends and all the small dishes. I appreciate my collection of small to medium bowls made by local potters, wooden spoons and handmade chopsticks.
My mama's doctor suggested moderation or Hare and Ke (festivals and everyday) when she began to gain weight in her menopause years: He recommended she follow healthy eating guidelines most of the time, but also to enjoy Festivals/ holiday meals, 'budgeting' for them by eating a little less the days before and after!
It worked beautifully, and she passed that suggestion on to me! (She lived to 92!)
Limiting use of alcohol to Hare (festivals/ or occasional) is a good practice. I was fortunate my folks shared a small glass of wine on birthdays, and my dad liked a beer when he watched baseball on TV ... so very occasional use is easy for me! Sugar is more tempting - and should also be limited!
- Here is a glimpse into the life (and meals) of Takishima Mika, 92 year old fitness instructor in Japan! I love that she tiptoes around her home - and admire her activity level!
What are some of your favorite longevity tips? 🙏
That was a really fun clip with Leonard Nimoy!
ReplyDeleteAlthough I enjoy (friendly) competition, I appreciate what you say about "engaging with friends and community in non competitive ways". My son introduced us to a few 'collaborative' games, where everyone operates as one team, trying to meet a certain objective. The competition is jointly against the game itself. The first was Pandemic, where we were a team trying to stop a world-wide pandemic. Those are a lot of fun!
I'm so glad you enjoyed the clip with Nimoy - I've watched it several times!
DeleteThe cooperative game sounds fun - and what synchronicity on your first theme!