Raising health children
There is nothing that gives a parent more pleasure than seeing their children grow up healthy and happy. Over the past twenty years, I have had the good fortune to observe many children. The ones I am most familiar with have been raised on macrobiotics. In the early days, everyone was terribly enthusiastic and idealistic.We wanted to be perfect and of course the same went for our children. We were so excited, like pioneers travelling on un-chartered waters and we made many mistakes. The children from those early days are now in their late teens and early twenties.
Are they any different than other children? I think so. They seem to be more self aware, independent and have a strength of spirit. Their outlook on life is broad and they possess a gentle power. My father once said that he didn't know if it was his imagination but macrobiotic children seem to be more intelligent. Today, the macrobiotic way of life is more relaxed and we have learnt a lot. Our children have greatly benefited from our experiences. I am still in the process of raising my seven children and feel blessed for the gifts I have been given. We all want our children to be well nourished. Sometimes this can appear daunting especially for new parents.
What should we feed our children?
Are we giving them enough and are they getting all the necessary nutrition?We read lots of magazines and books and every piece of advice seems different. I first became interested in Macrobiotics because it made sense. It was very practical. Its roots are found within all long-standing cultures. Macrobiotics is so flexible that you can use it to create dishes from all over the world.
The idea is to base the meal around the grain, whether it is a whole grain, pasta, cracked grain or bread. The meal is created from that starting point and you accent with vegetables, beans, fish and various seasonings. The ingredients used are natural and almost always, organic. There are endless combinations and each meal is unique and exquisite. When we eat these gifts from nature, it helps us to feel connected. Connected to the world and our fellow men. We develop gratitude and a sensitivity for our life on earth
Changing your way of life to a natural and healthy one is very empowering. You become the one in the driver's seat. You take responsibility for your health and the well being of your family. For many people this is a big step and can be a frightening one. Often we are more afraid of change than change itself.
If you can see if as an exciting adventure then it puts everything in a positive light. Remember why you want to change; improved health, quality of life, increased energy and peace of mind. Mind, body and spirit are one. Great food will also nourish and free the mind and the spirit. Eating healthy food is one of the best ways you can love and nourish yourself.
Rather than thinking of health as a something you achieve, see it as a direction that you are moving towards. We can move towards health and we can move away from it. The direction is what is important. Whether you are already eating macrobiotic foods or want to make changes to your present diet, a gentle approach is advised.
This is important where children are concerned. Keep in mind that you are aiming to enrich your life and not to deny read more
