“A sound body houses a sound mind.” – Juvenal

Buddhist thought in health asserts the that the mind is the origin of illness and imbalance. When we engage in harmful activities, with attachment, aversion or ignorance we impair our ability to see the world clearly and thus create the causes for suffering in our life.

The beginning of inner wellness is when we turn our attention toward and actively cultivate the ‘Ten Good Practices’. These are based on the fact that our actions- physically, verbally and mentally – have a far reaching effect besides the immediate one we experience ourselves. No person exists independently of the world, nor do any behvaiors and choices remain isolated. With this fundamental understanding of interconnectedness, we can begin to live with increased empathy and act with discernment rather than by habit. As we cultivate these practices our heart is freed from regret, remorse, anxiety and doubt. Simultaneously we can develop our loving kindness, patience, equanimity and wisdom.

I define health as the sense of well being and ease  found in three general levels:

physically

socially – emotionally – intellectually

spiritually-internally-world view

One aspect of balance is being amidst the ever changing circumstances of living and working, while responding appropriately to the rhythms, seasons, patterns of Nature. Through developing sensitivity to the ever present and unfolding wisdom that is within all phenomena we can lead a content and fulfilling life that serves the highest purpose of ourselves and others. Self-care and the healing process can then become a practice of self-growth and realization.

In order to sustain a healthy life we can all incorporate a daily practice of what has been called in Chinese Medicine- ‘nourishing life‘.  Results are seen through consistency and manifested as the increase of physical ease, contentment, generosity, patience, and wisdom.  Through your own experience and self-reflection you can learn what suits your body and lifestyle the best. Ultimately you are responsible for your own health care so I encourage  you to explore options.

From my perspective I wish to provide support for you as you take the steps in changing your mind, heart and health. No matter how slow the step is…I believe you can change your life and I am committed to helping you find a way to do that. The most important thing is that you make the effort to take a step, any step.