Last Monday, we implemented something called “Balance Monday” on Twitter—which is essentially our version of Follow Friday (the popular weekly international event where Twitterers recommend people they follow to others). We figured: “What better way to start the beginning of a new work week than to support those who keep us balanced every day?”
Balance is an important concept for people who practice Ramuan. The Malays believe that the universe is composed of four major elements (earth, fire air and water). It is thought that these elements exist and function within the body and in interaction with the social and physical environment. An imbalance of these elements leads to ill health.
According to Malay belief, each individual is made up of four humors, the properties of which are hot and moist (blood), cold and moist (phlegm), hot and dry (black bile), and cold and dry (yellow bile). Groups of foods are also classified as having hot or cold properties. For example, watermelon is considered ‘hot and moist’; milk is considered ‘cold and moist’; lemongrass is ‘hot and dry’; long beans are ‘cold and windy’; and the much-loved durian (a fruit found in Southeast Asia) is ‘hot and gassy.’ These foods should be mixed carefully, and sometimes not at all—as is the case with watermelon and milk. (It’s thought that the milk will curdle, resulting in colic, indigestion, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.)
The hot-cold concept of balance is not just a matter of food or medicine—it’s also about a larger, holistic worldview. Wouldn’t we all be healthier people for remembering the bigger picture the next time we find ourselves suffering from a “Case of the Monday’s”? How do YOU stay balanced Monday through Friday? Do you have a Monday ritual that helps you stay on track for the week? Please share it with us!
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