Simplified Rewrite:
We’re currently going through a health crisis, and many people are feeling the effects both physically and mentally. A lot of this comes from restrictions stopping us from doing things we enjoy, like eating out – something that’s become a huge part of our lives lately. But it’s interesting to see that folks in the East – places like India and China – seem to be coping better. What’s their secret?
Well, it turns out, their traditional diets and lifestyles have a lot to do with it! Despite seeming very different, India and China share several lifestyle patterns. For one, both countries value family unity. Extended families often live together under one roof and the family meal time is a cherished ritual.
They also live in harmony with nature and the changing seasons. For instance, people often drink warm tea throughout the day, in accordance with the season. Furthermore, these countries follow a five-element philosophy, meaning they believe the universe is composed of certain elements – with slight differences in their lists. They adapt their food choices to match the season too, eating cool foods in summer and warm ones in winter. This method aligns with changes in their bodies’ metabolism throughout the year.
In both India and China, there’s a belief that food isn’t just to satisfy hunger but also to nourish the body and help boost health. For instance, Ancient Indian texts emphasize the need for a balanced diet according to the seasons and even the time of day. Similarly, common Chinese beliefs propose the idea of eating food for the purposes of preserving health and treatment, with many preferring medicinal foods over synthetic drugs.
Additionally, both Indians and Chinese people traditionally have very active lifestyles. Many do their own farming and home chores, involving a lot of physical tasks. This has contributed to their general health status, some reports suggest that Indians eat healthier and spend less on healthcare, while the Chinese are less likely to die from heart diseases.
The takeaway here is that our traditional values, like focusing on balanced diets and family, can help us maintain our health, even when modern influences demand a change. It makes sense to keep preserving and promoting these habits for future generations.
(As a side note, the original text was written by Dr. Vikram Chauhan, an Ayurvedic Medicine Expert, who is a founder of Krishna Herbal Company and Planet Ayurveda.)
