Sandra T. Avendano Speaks!

If yes, I have an explanation for you.   According to  Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) , every season has corresponding organs it affects.  Autumn, for example, is the time to consider the health and proper functioning of the lungs and the large intestine. The Lungs Let’s look at how it all unfolds.  The lungs are essentially our direct link to the outside world.  We inhale oxygen through our lungs and through a chemical reaction in the lungs, the red blood cells transport oxygen to every cell in our body.  When the climate becomes cooler, the air we breathe is thus cooler and lighter.  It is very typical that once the temperature drops, we turn up our heating systems to make it warmer and to reduce the dampness inside our homes.  Consequently, our lungs will need to work harder to make quick adjustments from breathing cooler/damper air outside to warmer/dryer air indoors.  If we don't spend much time outdoors, our lung...

The days are getting shorter, and the chill in the air is obvious as you dig out that big comfy sweater or extra blanket. For some, the cooler temperatures of fall are a welcomed relief from the hot and humid climate of the summer, while others are counting the days for summer’s return. Of all the Canadian seasons, autumn is by far the most colorful season and it is an exquisite feast for the senses.  Our eyes get to gaze upon the red, gold, amber and yellow trees preparing to hibernate for the winter.  Our ears get to hear the dry crunchy foliage that pile up on the sidewalks and walking trails.  Our nose gets to smell the harvesting of apples, corn and pumpkins, and we get to taste the sweet delicacies made with cinnamon and nutmeg. We welcome the fall season by the foods we harvest and eat, the bodywork necessary to adjust, and the celebrations we observe. The combination of honey, apples  and pomegranates adorn Jewish family dining room tables as th...

Photo Credit:  Stux (Pixabay) The phrase “back to school” conveys horror for some youngsters, but in many cases, pure joy for parents. Whether your summer has been chock-full of exciting and exhausting adventures or spending quality time at the cottage, it is now time to get back to the groove of routines.  Let’s see what is important on the Back to School Checklist. School supplies:   Dig out that email sent out at the end of the last school year to print out the school supplies list.   Purchasing these items sooner than later will help you avoid crowds and the stress of last minute shopping. School wear:   Before you start shopping for new school wear, let the kids put on a fashion show to see what fits, what can be handed-down, or handed out. School bags:   Have you checked the condition of their school bags? Are they torn, irreparably stained or too small? When you are purchasing a backpack for your student, make sure it is a p...