the REN DAO Wellness Center Blog

Chemical and Emotional Toxins.The liver has the arduous task of making useful what we take into the body and preparing what is not needed for elimination. When the liver becomes overwhelmed and can no longer adequately handle all we take in, what is not processed properly accumulates, becomes toxic and the sources of disease and ill health. These toxins can originate from foods we consume and things we come in contact through our environment. Other sources include stimulus we take in through our sense organs (eyes, ears mouth and nose) and beliefs we keep (ferment and nurture) in our habitual thoughts and habits.   More subtle are emotions. Reoccurring resentments held toward people, or past events. Habitual outburst of emotions (as a reaction to stressors) and behavior that has no definable, measurable benefit to self, others and community.
It goes without saying that we should consume foods in as close to their natural state as possible and foods that under go the least amount of processing. Likewise we should limit our exposure to environmental toxins wherever possible, chemical, electromagnetic, media suggestions, etc.

A helpful exercise can include becoming mentally aware of what we come in contact with and consume daily. To take note of our constant thoughts and feelings. Then actively challenge our self; do I really need this, is this the best choice for me right now, can I afford to do this, why. This is best done not out of a sense of fear (I cannot eat McDonald’s because it will make me fat) or from preconceived beliefs (I will eat tofu because it is good for me). The idea is to not rehearse or reaffirm the thoughts and actions that keep us stuck in yesterday’s patterns but to take part actively in what is appropriate for right now. This exercise can help restore that little connection with self - to affirm the body is intelligent, is self regulating and has knowledge of what is best.