Tips for a Healthy Life Balance from Karina at Kamalaya

Karina Stewart is a co-founder of Kamalaya and expert in Traditional Chinese Medicine, functional Nntrition and functional detoxification. From a young age, she was interested in natural healing, yoga and Asian spiritual philosophies. Karina also became interested in meditation, and after obtaining her Bachelors degree, she went on a sabbatical to pursue of practice of meditation. Below, she reveals her top tips for a healthy mind and life balance: 

1 - Slow Down.

No matter where you are or what you are doing, slowing down allows our nervous system to reset itself. When you take a moment to slow down, you shift out of high stress mode into a restoration mode. This makes can make a huge positive difference to your physical, mental and emotional health throughout the day. One great way to practise this is to 'pause' what you are doing and take 10 long and deep abdominal breaths. These breaths should consist of full, deep, expanding inhalations and slow, long, relaxed exhalations. Ideally, you should pause for 2-3 minutes every hour throughout the day... The difference in your vitality and well-being will be phenomenal... Try it and see! 

2 - Exercise Daily. 

We understand there are a million and one excuses not to exercise. It can be hard to find the time or wrangle up the energy. But you should make time for daily exercise - even if it is only for a 15 minute walk. When you exercise, you will incease the circulation of blood and oxygen, as well as of 'qi' or 'vital force' in Oriental medicine. This is key to vitality, vibrant health and longevity. Your body will thank you. 

3 - Focus on the Positive.

In every moment, we always have a choice to determine how we will perceive any given situation.  In fact, the negative side in every situation co-exists with the positive in every aspect of life.... so it takes practice to actively choose to focus on the positive. However, the experience and impact that focusing on the positive has an outstanding impact on your mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. While you can acknowledge the negative aspects, it is best to focus on the positive.  

4. Eliminate Sugar.

It is really easy to reach for sugary treats and beverages when we need a quick pick-me-up. However, for your health, it is best to eliminate sugar from your diet altogether.  This is one of the most beneficial changes we can make to positively impact our overall health and mental/emotional balance. You can say farewell to crashes after sugar spikes and feel more alert throughout the day.  

5. Take Supplements.

My favorite supplements are powdered greens for their ability to provide concentrations of minerals, vitamins, enzymes and micronutrients. I also like to take omega 3 oils for their ability to nourish the brain, cardiovascular system and reduce inflammation.  Taking supplements has a multifaceted benefit to health.

6. Just Be. 

Although adhering to demanding schedules may be extremely difficult, sometimes taking a step away from them is just as hard. However, you should take time every day to do nothing and just BE.... I really enjoy just being with myself, resting in silence, peace and serenity - even if only for 10 minutes!  I find myself reconnecting to myself deeply in these moments of stillness and gratitude and joy naturally.   

To learn more about programmes at Kamalaya, please contact our Wellness Experts or call on 020 7843 3597.