1. Balance the 4 Bodies
Macrobiotics is a holistic health system that focuses on balancing our 4 bodies: physical, emotional, spiritual and mental. Most of us are stronger in 1 or 2 of these bodies, but the goal is to create balance between the 4. When many people think about macrobiotics, they think of a macrobiotic diet, but there is a lot more to the system than simply food choices. Daily physical activity is also an important part of a macrobiotic lifestyle. Many famous athletes follow this lifestyle, including marathoner Ambrose (Amby) Burfoot, track and field athlete Carl Lewis, BMX rider Taj Mihelich and sprinter Leroy Russel Burrell.
2. Practice Do-o-Raku
As part of the macrobiotic lifestyle, you should do aerobic or stretching exercises such as yoga, dance or martial arts on a regular basis. A 30-minute daily walk in a natural outdoor setting on grass, soil or sand is also good to do. However, an important principle in macrobiotics is Do-o-Raku. This means to live in appreciation or enjoyment (Raku) of the Tao (the Do-o, or the order of nature, in Japanese). Some people think of Do-o-Raku as a hobby or enjoyable activity. Therefore, when you choose a physical activity to incorporate into your life, you will want to choose one that you really enjoy. Regular exercise keeps energy flowing through out four bodies. However, if we damage one of the four bodies, through poor diet or a grueling, punishing exercise routine, it affects our entire body. Therefore, moderate healthful exercise is part of the macrobiotic lifestyle.
3. Pick Clothing that Breathes
One of the principles of macrobiotics is allowing the body to breathe. Therefore, the choice of exercise clothes is important. Cotton fabrics are better than some of the newer synthetic fabrics seen in exercise clothing. Choose breathable clothing that is also loose enough so it does not restrict movement.
4. Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is another important part of the macrobiotic lifestyle. For this reason, physical activity that focuses on mindfulness is often a good match. Yoga, tai chi and Pilates are particularly conducive to the macrobiotic lifestyle. However, other mindfulness movements like chi running, which combines some of the principles of tai chi with running, are also good choices, as are chi walking and total immersion swimming. Breathing exercises are also important in the macrobiotic lifestyle.
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