The weather is changing and with it, so are we. Our bodies are intimately connected to the earth and what is happening in nature. The best way to maintain balance is to follow the cues nature is sending.Buddhist monks know that the way to enlightenment is balance in all things, including the mind, body and spirit. Current Western traditions have lost sight of this important connection to the earth, yet Eastern practices embrace it.
Look at what is in season locally where you live right now. If you're up north, the food offering may be different than what's down south. Here, in North Carolina, we've got peaches and plenty of them! It's perfect that peaches are in season now as they offer fluid, sugar, fiber and vitamins that help balance the body when it's cool and dry outside. We haven't had much rain as of late and the grass is drying while the air is cooling. This combination makes for a perfect combination to dry out our mucus membranes. Had a few bloody noses lately? Been clearing your throat? Both signs that what is going on outside is being reflected inside. Nature knows what the body needs right now - lubrication. And, just on cue - peaches are provided at just the right time, and in plentiful amounts.
Hm mm, maybe we should take a hint... if there are a lot of peaches, is that a sign of things to come? Nature wants to make sure we are properly balanced so that we can maintain health. As we maintain balance, come into harmony with our environment. This harmony occurs in opposites. Balance occurs in juxtaposition. There must be dark in order to experience light. When it's cold out, our bodies require warmth. When it's warm out, our bodies require cool. When it's dry out, our bodies require moisture. See the delicate dance that takes place? The key is to allow the dance to take place. Look outside, feel the air, listen to the trees, watch the animals. Nature is telling you, showing you what is coming. We just need to slow down enough to pay attention.
Our family eats peaches raw. There's something so satisfying in the sweet, juicy crunch that comes from biting into one. Here's a tasty breakfast recipe we love. Add some fresh peaches and it feels like dessert!
Peach-Ginger Oatmeal Breakfast
2 cups water
1 cup rolled oats
2 teaspoons grated ginger
pinch of salt
1/4 cup sunflower seeds
1/2 cup raisins
1/2 fresh chopped peach
1 tbsp. agave nectar
Directions: Bring water to a boil, add oatmeal, ginger, salt, raisins. Reduce heat to low and cook until creamy (less than 10min). Remove from heat and add sunflower seeds and peaches. Hemp seeds can be used as well. Experiment and enjoy!
Posts
