Life is full of contrasts. We experience bright days and dark nights, moments of high energy and times of rest, feelings of joy and periods of sadness, as well as the hunger that comes before the comfort of feeling full.

This is the concept of Yin and Yang in traditional Chinese medicine. Yin and Yang are a way to understand how opposite forces work together to create balance in the body and the world; good health comes from keeping those forces in harmony. Yin represents passive (restful) and Yang represents active (energized).

Are you in “overdrive” most of the time? Or do you live in slow motion? It is easy to get stuck in one mode over the other, but balance is so important to health and well-being.

Yin meditation can help when you need some downtime

For times when you are living in the fast lane, you may want to consider adding a little Yin to the mix! Yin meditation can lead to:

• Improved mindfulness through sustained attention and stillness. 
• Stress reduction by activating the parasympathetic nervous system. 
• Emotional balance and release, supporting resilience and self-awareness.
• Better sleep due to deep relaxation.

Join Dr. Juli Olson for a guided Yin Meditation practice to slow down and turn inward. Connect with and discover the stillness inside and expand that stillness throughout your mind and body. Take the sense of stillness with you after the meditation to continue your day with increased calm, energy and focus.

Whole Health supports your well-being

Being healthy is more than the lack of illness or pain. Well-being means you are feeling confident in all areas of your life. Maybe you are feeling great about your job, but your relationships are strained. Or you are moving your body, but your food choices are not the best.

Take a look at the Circle of Health and think about all areas of your life and health. Perhaps set some goals and then reach out to your local VA to learn about Whole Health.