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An Introduction to Macrobiotics

18/10/2012

1 Comment

 
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Since July 2011, I've been studying Macrobiotics at the International Macrobiotic School in Devon.  Now in my second year, this course has taken me on a journey of discovery. Not only a journey of self-discovery, although I have learnt more about myself in this time than ever before, but also an exploration of humanity and the universe, of how we came into being and how everything in the universe is forever changing and in flux. This change proceeds according to the laws of nature and at its very core, living by the laws of nature, is what macrobiotics is all about.

The term macrobiotics originated in Greece, where teachings based on a deep 
 understanding of the laws of nature came to be known as macrobiotics, meaning ‘big’ or 
 'great' (macro) ‘life’ (bios). Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, was the first to 
 introduce the word back in the 5th century B.C, as he himself taught a natural way of life,
 which emphasized harmony with the environment, especially in the selection and 
 preparation of food. The ancient teachings of macrobiotics, however, pre-date 
 Hippocrates and have existed from the time of the earliest human cultures and 
 civilizations. By tracing its origins, we can see that macrobiotics is far more than a dietary
 regime. It is a philosophy and way of life, which encompasses not only diet but all 
 dimensions of human life and cosmic activity. 

 That might all sound a little way out there but I think it’s important to understand where
 macrobiotics comes from. The present day understanding of the term is far from what I 
 have described above, as most people have either never heard of it, or if they have, often
 they associate it with a diet, which is renound for being regimented and bland. 

 So what is the macrobiotic ''diet'', you might well ask. Well, first of all, I would like to 
 emphasise that macrobiotics is not a diet; rather it is an approach to life and food, which 
 considers many factors such as the climate, the time of year, the location and the 
 individual’s needs. Broadly speaking, it is centered largely around eating a simple, natural 
 diet, which includes wholegrains, beans, vegetables, sea vegetables and smaller quantities
 of fish, nuts, seeds and fruits. 

 The beauty of the macrobiotic approach is that the emphasis is not on what you can or
 cannot eat. Instead, it focusses on making us more aware of how different foods and 
 cooking styles affect us, both physically and emotionally. But to create this awareness and
 sensitivity to food, a simple diet is required.  As we become more aware of the effects
 that different foods have on us, we are more in control of knowing what our needs are at
 any given time. And of course, what we need today may not be what we need tomorrow
 or next week, as our needs are changing all the time. 

 So, I hope by now I’ve managed to give you some understanding of macrobiotics without
 confusing you completely. I wanted to share this information because firstly, in the midst
 of this increasingly complex world we live in, I think there is a lot to be said for a simple, 
 natural approach to life, which enables us to take control of our own health and 
 happiness. And secondly, over the coming weeks, I am undertaking a little macrobiotic
 experiment to improve my own health and sensitivity to the foods I eat. So, I invite you
 to join me on this journey and along the way, learn more about this fascinating and 
 ancient approach to great health and a great life! 


1 Comment
helen bennett
18/10/2012 03:28:36 am

Rebecca I am so impressed with your information on macrobiotics. Wll be folllowing you closely
Helen(Olwyn's mom)

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