The Aspen Tradition

[This is a spiritual article and not medical advice.]

The four classic elements can serve as a guide to a healthy lifestyle. Practice a little self-care by making sure to incorporate these fundamentals in your daily life.

Earth: The Foundation of Nutrition and Security

Earth energy is about the nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and proteins we need to take care of our bodies. Focus on a minimally processed and whole-food diet. Fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes should make up the majority of what we consume. Eat a rainbow of fruits and veggies to get a diverse range of nutrients. Low-fat, less-processed meats and dairy are okay for those who choose them.

Metaphysically, Earth also encompasses our sense of physical well-being. Appropriate shelter and clothing are essential to our survival. Until we satisfy our physical needs, we cannot hope to meet our higher needs.

Water: The Essence of Cleansing and Healing

We all need adequate amounts of clean water to keep our bodies working well. Beyond our literal need for water, we need what water represents. It symbolizes healing and cleansing, rest, and forgiveness. Water also represents friendships, compassion, and a sense of belonging. Each of us has social needs that must be met for us to thrive.

Air: The Breath of Freedom and Creativity

Of course, we need clean air to fill our lungs. But we also need the qualities associated with the element of air—educational, intellectual, artistic, and philosophical needs. Freedom is a basic need. Freedom to learn, think, and dream. To live authentically. We need to express ourselves creatively through various forms of art, including cooking, dance, music, and writing. Art is also reflected in how we dress and groom ourselves. Air represents our ability to imagine our own futures and set goals.

Fire: The Spark of Action and Transformation

We need fire and heat, but also movement and motion. Regular exercise is crucial to staying healthy. Fire embodies the courage and drive. It instills the passion to take the steps needed. These steps bring us closer to the future we imagine with Air energy. We strive to better ourselves, make progress, and grow. We burn away what no longer serves us and press courageously forward into the future.