Celebrate Chinese New Year by incorporating healthy Chinese practices into your routine

January 23 marks the beginning of Chinese New Year, also called the Lunar New Year, a fifteen-day celebration that include numerous centuries-old rituals and traditions. In Chinese lore, each year is dedicated to a different animal of the Chinese Zodiac. This year celebrates the Year of the Dragon, said to imbue people with energy, vitality and impulsiveness. The Dragon is the most auspicious animal in the Zodiac.

“Chinese New Year is draped in age-old traditions and beliefs,” says Teresa Lin, Director, Asian Home Care Program, VNSNY. “Since New York City has the largest Chinese population of any city outside of Asia, it is known for having some of the most authentic celebrations of the Chinese New Year in the U.S.”

All over the world, Chinese people will be honoring the New Year with lion and dragon dances, parades, red envelopes, fabulous traditional feasts, extensive family gatherings, and wishes for health and longevity. “People in China believe that as they enter a new year, they should drop the last year into the silent limbo of the past,” says Lin. “Traditional Chinese New Year brings forth the essence of new life and new hopes. And these are the thoughts and attitudes that non-Chinese can take away to lead a healthier lifestyle.

”The new year is a great opportunity to explore more than 5,000 years of Chinese culture and incorporate some of its long-held health practices into your routines. Here are just a few:

Tai Chi  

Tai chi has ancient origins in Chinese martial arts. It is a series of postures performed in a slow, elegant manner, and each posture flows seamlessly into the next. It is greatly suited for older adults who don’t regularly exercise. Its gentle, meditative movements are thought to reduce stress, enhance balance and muscle strength, reduce falls, improve sleep, lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular fitness. Tai chi can be done anywhere, in homes or outside in parks, and many classes are to be found in senior centers, YMCAs and fitness clubs. There are also many videos available to get novice practitioners started.

Tea 

It is said that tea became a staple in China after some tea leaves fell into the Emperor’s water. The Chinese take their tea very seriously, and no tea is more valued than green tea, especially varieties gathered in the highlands in springtime. The health benefits of green tea are well known—it is considered to be a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that can have positive effects on cholesterol, rheumatoid arthritis, immunity and even inhibit some cancers. It’s also proven to help dieters keep weight off. To get the biggest health boost, drink your green tea without milk or sugar—and take time to savor it!

Feng Shui 

Feng Shui is a way of organizing one’s environment so that it is in balance and keeps positive energy flowing. It has been in practice in China for thousands of years. Some home tips: use mirrors to enhance chi, or energy, and to add light and spaciousness. Orient mirrors to the side of the front door, not opposite it, which could repel visitors; use a mirror to reflect a beautiful scene or object. Incorporate water into your environment with a small fountain—water in motion can promote well-being. Lastly, keep your space healthy with plants. Place them at the front of your home and use them to disguise harsh angles, which could disrupt chi.

Attitude 

Throughout its history, Chinese culture has placed importance on a harmonious attitude toward life. Indeed, a strong respect for health and happiness is even said to guarantee they will be bestowed on you. Take time to honor these ideals with a welcoming, positive attitude and you may be rewarded.

The upcoming Lunar New Year Parade & Festival in Chinatown is set for Sunday, January 29, 2012.