Shinrinyoku (forest bathing) is the Japanese practice of visiting the forest for both physical and mental health benefits. Although the literal definition of shinrinyoku refers to wooded areas, within the ERMELS Method, shinrinyoku refers to any type of nature. With rates of depression and anxiety on the rise and more people struggling with addictions (from alcohol to cell phones), doctors are beginning to prescribe “Vitamin N,” nature. Do more things that make you forget ... View the Post
ERMELS Consulting
Haitai! (Hello in Okinawan) Whether your goal is to pursue your ikigai, feel better in your body, or simplify your life, I believe that the Okinawan approach can benefit you. Habits that foster greater health and happiness are woven into every part of the Okinawan lifestyle, that's what makes Okinawans the longest-living people in the world. My specialty is in bringing this laid back, island mentality to YOU. As a result of working with me, clients are able to find their version of a ... View the Post
The Okinawa Life Course is here!
Haisai! (Hello in Okinawan)I’m so pleased to announce that 2019’s first round of the Okinawa Life Course is open for enrollment! Throughout this course you will learn new ways to weave healthy habits into your routine AND begin to experience deeper levels of happiness and satisfaction for what you DO have. We all know that living a beautiful life and appreciating it can be two different things and the Okinawa Life Course:1. Is a curriculum that supports you in prioritizing your physical, ... View the Post
Early Childhood the Okinawan Way
Parenting is by far the hardest thing that I've ever done. No matter what, I seem to be able to find something to feel guilty about and many days I've taken about 100 deep breaths by 9 AM. This is coming from someone with a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in early childhood education (0-8 years old), a special education certification, who taught 35 kindergartners in a low income area without an aide, and who also spent two years teaching children with multiple and severe disabilities. I ... View the Post
Change Your Life, the Okinawa Way
Okinawa, Japan, is known as the healthiest place on the planet, with more centenarians than anywhere else in the world. I was born on Okinawa to an Okinawan mother and lived there from 11-18 years old until I moved to the U.S. for college. During my first seven years in the States, I overindulged in everything that I had always dreamed of in regards to life in America: food, TV, consumerism, etc., and my health took a toll. At the age of 25 my pendulum seemed to rest and I found ways to ... View the Post