Working from home provides us an opportunity to redesign our lives to live more in sync with the harmonious rhythms of the Dao. Yet, many of us have experienced, or heard about, distressful stories of people who work-at-home during the pandemic, who let slip regular exercise, fresh clothing, healthy food choices, and a disciplined work schedule.
COVID-19 seems to have accelerated a number of trends that were already in process. One of the most impactful changes for many people was the sudden movement to working more from home. This trend had been slowly happening for decades, with the movement of urban cultures toward greater technology, coupled with the increasing growth of the knowledge-based economy.
Then all of a sudden, millions of people found themselves working from home. It was an abrupt change forced by an external event and many of us were caught unprepared. It is an enormous shift and the big question is, will it make us happier and healthier? In theory it should, less commuting, more free time and the ability to plan your own schedule etc. However, in my observation, the reality for many was the opposite.
For those that are not doing as well working from home, the root of this problem most likely lies in an improper working schedule and/or the motivation to implement it. The classic trap is to be too flexible with when and how you work. This can often lead to Qi stagnation, frustration and lack of energy.
Chinese Medicine is based on the assumption that we are a small part of a much larger natural order. It is believed that observation of the universe and nature can give us insight into understanding ourselves.
When observing the workings of the universe, by watching the movement of the sun, moon, tides, seasons and stars, the Daoist’s noted that this sequence of change occurs in cycles that are rhythmic and regular, for example, the day follows the night, the full moon follows the new moon, and the summer follows the winter. Note, these changes are extremely regular. Think about it, all of these cycles and exact times that can be predicted well into the future.
‘Natural laws rest on this principle of movement along the line of least resistance. These laws are not forces external to things but represent the harmony of movement immanent in them. That is why the celestial bodies do not deviate from their orbits and why all events in nature occur with fixed regularity.’
Yi Jing – Book of Changes (11th Century BCE)
Based on long-term observation and the belief that we are a small part of a much larger natural order, the Daoist’s assumed natural laws must be the same for humans. Regular life rhythm is the first and most important key to health and longevity in Chinese Medicine.
Regular rhythms in sync with the heavenly rhythms maximize bodily functions, and in doing so maximize health and longevity. There are times to be active and times to rest. There are times to work and there are times to socialize. If you are working from home you need to set these rhythms yourself!
Get up at first light; get into the body (no screens) first with hot drink, bathroom and exercise; Hot-breakfast and then your most important & productive work time 8am-11am (no excuses please); Stop for lunch at midday; Rest after lunch (lunch-rest break minimum 1-hour); Work more in sorting and planning work activities; 5pm stop mental work and socialize (online is fine); Cooked-dinner and be in bed by 9-10pm.
The idea is that the universe has a rhythm like a pendulum and when we swing in rhythm with this pendulum, the universe can run through us!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Alex Tan L.AC. is a licensed Acupuncturist. After completing his degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Alex lived and practiced Chinese Medicine for 10-years in Beijing, China. A native-born Australian, the son of his Australian mother and Chinese father, Alex’s bi-cultural heritage helps him skillfully bridge Eastern and Western health perspectives. He believes the true power of Chinese medicine lies in a balanced approach towards prevention and treatment. Rooted in Chinese Medicine observation based theory & methodology over millenniums, Alex’s talent lies in delivering these Eastern healing modalities to his modern Western clients. For more about Alex click here
Alex runs a clinic in Flagstaff, Northern Arizona. Alex welcomes comments and questions to his articles. To schedule an appointment in person or telco-appointment click here
