The epidemic of a century has changed our behaviour, which mainly makes us more health-conscious. When it comes to healthy living, Japan - one of the most wellness-conscious countries globally - is an exemplar. J-wellness has always been highly recommended, backed by the well-known longevity in the nation.
What is J-wellness?
The Japanese have a persistent attitude towards life, and healthy living habits are the most important part of J-wellness. As the nation is rich in natural resources, Japanese food and leisure activities are based on nature, appetite and soul can therefore achieve the standard of harmony of nature and man, by substantially conducting the regimen in nature.
Japanese diet healthy practices
According to Japan Times, people aged 65 or older accounted for 26.7% of Japan’s population of over 127 million. The regimen from Okinawa has drawn the most attention. Compared to the western countries, Okinawa locals have 80% fewer chances to get cardiovascular diseases, and 50% less than those in Japan. Cancers are rare in Okinawa, while the numbers of cerebrovascular diseases and colon cancer cases are the lowest throughout the world.
The Japanese health department analyzed that the secret of longevity of Okinawans lies in their lifestyle habits. Their largely varied daily diet can ensure the Okinawans intake a large number of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and protein. Okinawans' food is mainly low-calorie and high-fiber, and we can find soybeans in their diet for at least two meals per day. Also, they perform an eating habit of less salt and sugar, less alcohol, but mainly drink water and green tea. In addition, Okinawa cuisine contains plenty of spices, green onions, ginger, garlic, fennel, mustard, etc., limiting the intake of sugar by the body and can also help lower the level of cholesterol.
Let the body and mind be close to nature
Around two-thirds of the world's hot spring spots are located in Japan. There are many natural hot springs that are located in the suburbs. People can relax both spiritually and spiritually while they enjoy soaking in a natural hot spring. Some scientific research shows that natural hot springs are rich in ions and minerals, constituting a curative effect of different hot springs. Soaking in a hot spring can also effectively improve blood circulation, respiratory, skin, muscles and joints, and immune function. European and Japanese tend to use hot springs to prevent or cure various chronic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, diabetes, and various skin diseases.
Besides hot springs, "forest bathing" also emerged in Japan in the 1980s. After leaving nature, humans experience pressure. Therefore, forests are needed for us to recharge ourselves. Forest is a typical representative of nature; after the stress is relieved, we can restore our immunity system to improve the ability to resist diseases.
Practise J-Wellness in Hong Kong
It is still unknown whether we can travel abroad or not this year. It may be difficult for many people to experience the genuine J-wellness, but we can still explore "forest bathing" by camping and trekking in Hong Kong country parks (click here for more recommended hiking trails), and swap hot baths for hot springs. Make Japanese part of your routine. Take good care of your body and prepare for a better future.
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