Ah, the start of a new year. Like most people, January is the month I convince myself I’ll be healthier and adopt life-changing new habits. In past years, I’ve stuck to resolutions like packing healthy lunches and taking probiotics every day, and they’ve definitely made me feel better. In the spirit of continuous health improvement, here are five things I’m planning to do this year to keep my gut happy:
Commit to meditation
Stress is one of the biggest roadblocks to good health – especially good digestive health. With several stressors on my plate this year, I want to take a few minutes a day to calm my mind with simple meditation exercises (and stop and smell the flowers, so to speak). Fun fact: A Harvard Medical School study said patients with gastrointestinal disorders who took behavioural approaches (e.g. yoga, meditation) saw more improvement in their symptoms versus those who only went the conventional medicine route.
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Try abdominal massage
I recently heard about an intriguing type of massage that re-aligns internal organs. Maya abdominal massage is based on ancient techniques, and is administered by trained naturopathic doctors who also teach you how to perform the massage yourself. It’s purported to help with digestive disorders like IBS by helping relax tight stomach muscles and coax abdominal and reproductive organs back to their optimal positions. While the ticklish part of me is hesitant, I’d love to give this a try.
Take a digestive enzyme at lunch
Digestive enzymes are supplements that make it easier for your body to digest carbohydrates, fats, protein and fibre; they can also help with lactose intolerance. Alisa Vitti, author of the book WomanCode, recommends taking a full-spectrum plant enzyme with lunch (which is, ideally, your largest meal) to aid in nutrient absorption and ensure you’re getting the most out of your midday food intake.
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Help out my liver
The liver has the tough job of eliminating toxins from the body. I want to take a load off mine with a few good holistic health habits: Using a good water filter, drinking herbal detoxifying teas (like burdock), dry-brushing skin before jumping in the shower and eating more dark, leafy greens like kale, spinach and rapini.
Make time to move
As cliché as it sounds, I want to sit less and move more this year (yep, I have a desk job). I just started playing dodgeball; dance classes are next on my list. I’m also a fan of the Yoga Studio app, which makes it easy to sneak in 15- or 30-minute classes without trekking to a studio. Along with a long list of other health benefits, exercise is particularly useful for easing constipation – and helping reduce stress that can lead to other digestive issues.
I look forward to putting these practices into action and letting you know which ones are successful. What are your 2014 health resolutions?
Always consult your physician before starting a new diet, exercise or medical program.
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