Benefit from wellness practices from around the world
One of the most valuable things about the diversity of humanity is being able to learn from collective knowledge. When it comes to wellness, there are many concepts from other cultures that we can benefit from in our own routines.
1. Hara hachi bu (Japan)
Japan is a society where individuals routinely live longer than 100 years. They credit their longevity to a number of lifestyle practices, one of which is hara hachi bu, loosely translated as “stop eating when you’re 80% full”. Many of the older resi- dents of the country, and particularly those living in Okinawa – one of the world’s accredited Blue Zones (geographic regions where citizens reportedly live longer than the average) – say these words out loud when sitting down to eat, both as a blessing and as a reminder to eat mindfully.
How you can make it part of your lifestyle:
Sit down to eat, eat slowly, and focus on your meal. Don’t eat in front of the TV or operate your phone while you eat, as this will distract you from the experience.
2. Siesta (Spain)
This practice can be traced back to the Roman Empire, but it’s common in many cultures, most notably Spain. Translating to “sixth hour”, it allows employees to take a break for a nap in the afternoon, as a way to escape the hot summer sun.
Most businesses close around this time, and society as a whole slows down, before regaining momentum for the rest of the day. The health benefits of the siesta are said to include a boost in energy, increased focus and creativity, and reduced sleep debt, which helps to regulate stress.
How you can make it part of your lifestyle:
Of course, not everyone will be able to enjoy a siesta most afternoons, but if you have time on a weekend, or work from home, plan your day, so you can give yourself 30 minutes off for a lie-down. You will feel refreshed and ready to take on the rest of your day.
3. Friluftsliv (Norway)
Norwegians have a special appreciation for nature, which they celebrate through the practice of friluftsliv, “free air life”.
They believe that being curious, exploring the outside world and spending time in nature are good for the soul, and will lead to greater happiness. Children are taught from an early age how to engage safely with nature and how to respect it. Norway’s government encourages this practice through sponsored libraries where you can borrow outdoor gear. Some universities even offer a bachelor’s degree in friluftsliv.
How you can make it part of your lifestyle:
In a country like South Africa, there is so much variety. Find something you enjoy, and take to the outdoors. You’ll be happier for it.
4. Fika (Sweden)
A coffee break isn’t exactly a revolutionary concept – except the way the Swedes do it. Fika is a proper midday break away from work, involving coffee or tea, along with something sweet. You get to relax, either alone or with friends, take your mind off the hustle for a bit, and rejuvenate.
How you can make it part of your lifestyle:
Schedule your break time in advance, so your work time is productive.
5. Ayurvedic oils (India)
One of the most popular wellness rituals in India is the whole-body massage, using Ayurvedic oils. The oils of plants such as coconuts, sesame seeds and olives can have benefits for skin and hair. Some of these oils are also used in oil pulling, a practice to address or prevent oral and dental hygiene issues, where oil is swished around in the mouth for a few minutes, gargled, and then removed.
How you can make it part of your lifestyle:
Explore different Ayurvedic or plant-based oils, and ways in which to use them in your wellness routine.
Written by LifeAssist
