Good for the Heart

At the beginning of each month, one of my routines is the simple task of flipping up the page on my calendar to reveal a fresh sheet of days. Two weeks ago, this was no different, and my eye fell midway through the month: Valentine’s Day, February 14. This year, I am looking forward to the celebration.

One of my housemates works in Chinese medicine as a certified acupuncturist. Recently, her growing knowledge of Chinese herbs has made its way into our kitchen with the creation of soups and stews to strengthen the immune system, tame stress, and support healthy blood. This Valentine’s Day, she is hosting a dinner of food that is good for the heart—infused with herbs to strengthen and enrich our bodies.

Indeed, the healing nature of food is often overlooked, except for perhaps, when we are already sick. The invitation from my housemate to share in a meal that is truly good for the heart made me realize how many ways there are to practice care; how many ways there are to tend the heart.

Today, my housemate will select all the right herbs and roots to strengthen and nourish the heart. What will you choose? As spiritual directors, how will you celebrate this day committed to love and the endearing relationships we enjoy? Take a minute and join me in calling to mind that which is truly good for the heart, and share your stories in the comments section below.