An Opportune Reset

Our temperate PNW climate has intensified the green backdrop of Portland during the beautiful month of April. The initial wave of daffodils, hyacinths and cherry blossoms has morphed into tulips, rhododendrons, azaleas and lilacs.

Since isolation began last month, I've used the downtime to reflect on current events. With a constant influx of information, it can be challenging to parse out the truth from the noise. This overwhelming lack of clarity has motivated me to study and share issues that I am passionate about. In this way, I am strengthening my communication skills and confidence in discussing controversial topics.

 

 

For example, many of us might agree that the COVID-19 crisis has interrupted our typical daily routines. While you may be eager to resume business as usual after isolation, I encourage you to briefly entertain a different perspective—we don't have to return to normal. Might it be that we were stuck in normal? Every response to this pandemic is an intensification of where society was already headed; social distancing, migration of commerce and education online, restriction of civil liberties. This pause in normalcy is a rare opportunity to create a new world with sustainable systems and elevated consciousness.

Modern ideologies of isolation have conditioned us to value survival and security. This is demonstrated by those currently hoarding groceries or investing greedily. I would argue that this fallacy of separateness has led us astray. It has repressed a natural altruism that defines a full and meaningful life as one of connection and service. Over the past several weeks, I have witnessed many random acts of kindness within the community. When the confining routines of normality waiver, human solidarity breaks through the cracks in the system.

 

 

With our economic, political and healthcare systems in free fall, let us reimagine a better world for all. How might we diffuse the concentration of wealth and power? Could we adopt a functional medicine approach to prevent disease rather than treat symptoms? Could we work together to reverse climate change in order to ensure a bright future for generations to come? Might we replace animal exploitation with respect for all living beings? How might we redirect our time and money to give, help and serve others? COVID-19 has shown that rapid change is possible when humanity is united in common cause.

Without minimizing the hardships that accompany COVID-19, I invite you to recognize this golden moment as extraordinary. We are at a crossroads with the potential to reclaim our sovereignty and leverage our future rather than adapt to one that seems inevitable; a choice is available. With humility and gratitude, let us construct a balanced, heart-based, sustainable new world.

 

 

"COVID-19 is like a rehab intervention that breaks the addictive hold of normality. To interrupt a habit is to make it visible; it is to turn it from a compulsion to a choice. When the crisis subsides, we might have occasion to ask whether we want to return to normal, or whether there might be something we’ve seen during this break in the routines that we want to bring into the future."

—The Coronation by Charles Einstein

The History of Human Disease

I am beginning to swallow the hard truth that life will not return to "normal" once this virus presumably peaks and the quarantine lifts. COVID-19, the disease caused by the new coronavirus, is not the first nor will it be the last threat to humanity. It is a symptom of biological collapse on the planet; a warning sign that we are misaligned with nature. With this in mind, I sought to understand how humans played a role in causing this pandemic. Where exactly did we go wrong? To answer this question, I studied the history of human disease and pandemics from Dr. Neal Barnard and Dr. Michael Greger. I reasoned that if we could learn from the past and identify the root cause of the problem, perhaps we could understand how to prevent these situations from happening again. Here's what I found...

The history of human disease can be grouped into three major periods:

1. 10,000 years ago: infectious disease began with the domestication of animals
2. 18th—19th century: Industrial Revolution gave rise to chronic disease
3. 1975—present: emerging plagues develop as we change the way animals live

According to the United Nations, the two greatest threats to our species are climate change and infectious disease (i.e., pandemic influenza). Historically, most viruses have come from animals. For example, the influenza pandemic of 1918—one of the worst plagues in human history—was triggered by the domestication of birds when influenza A (H1N1) passed from a wild duck into a flock of domesticated birds, and subsequently to humans.

Infectious disease seemed to be eradicated by the mid-20th century with the development of antibiotics and vaccines. However, mortality started to creep back up in 1975 as farming practices changed. An increasing demand for animal protein led to exotic animal markets and intensified land use and agriculture (i.e., factory farming). The grotesque and stressful conditions in which animals are raised and slaughtered today are breeding grounds for disease. 80% of antibiotics sold in the U.S. are given to farm animals to maximize animal growth by controlling bacterial populations. As a result, bacteria are becoming resistant to these drugs, rendering them infective on humans—a major public health concern. The agriculture and pharmaceutical industries have monetary interests in keeping this practice alive. Biosecurity practices are also declining in order to cut industry costs.

In order to reduce the risk of future influenza pandemics, the UN recommends decreasing the consumption of chickens and factory farms by replacing large industrial units with smaller scale versions. This shift in animal farming practices would likely prevent other viruses as well, such as the coronavirus. Researchers believe that COVID-19 began in China's live animal markets—the same origin of the SARS coronavirus outbreak in 2003. These markets may soon reopen due to economic pressure, thereby facilitating future viral outbreaks.

I made a decision to stop eating animals three years ago after embarking on a lifelong self-study of nutritional and environmental science. I was overwhelmed by the scientific evidence supporting the idea that a plant-based diet could not only fuel the human body, but also nourish the planet. A vegan lifestyle conveniently checks all of the boxes, which has become one of my core beliefs. Although everyone should be free to make their own choices, with the survival of our species at stake, I feel empowered to inspire change.

The impact of global quarantine has reassured me of two things: that people can change and that the planet can recover. In fact, Dr. Sailesh Rao has recently shown that we could sequester more carbon on the land that is freed up from animal agriculture than all of the carbon added to the atmosphere from fossil fuel burning and land use changes since 1750. In this way, he is optimistic that we can reverse climate change. Isn't it curious that a vegan world could significantly reduce, if not eliminate, the two greatest threats to humanity?

Without judgement, it is time to accept that how we treat animals is creating public health implications. International cooperation is needed to dispel live animal markets and factory farms. Leah Garcés with Mercy For Animals is advocating to create a compassionate food system by collaborating with the farmers. Nobody on the planet is unaffected by this health crisis; let us collectively foster change to alter the course of history. Money may run the world, but there will not be a world for humans if we do not change.

"The idea that some lives matter less
is the root of all that is wrong with the world."

—Paul Farmer

COVID-19

The world seems to be holding its breath as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to unfold. I admit that I initially doubted the gravity of the situation. After all, this is not the first life-threatening viral outbreak that humans have encountered. There is, however, concern for not having preexisting immunity or treatment for this virus. Consequently, I am doing my part to slow its spread as scientists race to find answers. I am also educating myself about cause and prevention of the rising threat of infectious disease, which I plan to share in the next post. Until then, I encourage everyone to take sanitary precautions to protect not only yourself, but others at higher risk; your decisions and sacrifices are much bigger than just you.

 
 

Like the rest of the country, Portland is currently operating under a stay-at-home order. The perception of time has slowed since the closing of businesses and schools. A vibrant spring season is arriving, yet the city resembles a ghost town. Individuals only emerge when necessary (i.e., groceries, exercise). Apart from those employed in supermarkets, healthcare and law enforcement, the rest of the workforce is either working from home or has been laid off. In this way, we've found ourselves in uncertain and unprecedented times. Trapped by physical isolation, feelings of loneliness, hopelessness and depression are sweeping the nation. Furthermore, the media, conflicting news reports and the likelihood of an economic recession have instilled widespread panic and fear. I recommend staying informed through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

 
 

As the bleak reality of the situation first sank in, I felt weighed down by lows level of energy and motivation. It was a tough cycle to break out of, complicated by the inability to look forward to upcoming trips and events—an unforgiving reminder that we are not in control. Yet I am managing to find my stride through virtual yoga and daily walks, which help me to focus on the silver linings. For example, can we use this time to slow down? Maybe learn to simply be with ourselves instead of do? Or perhaps invent creative ways to connect socially from afar? Many of us are lost without our routines, but I encourage you to view this opportunity as a blank slate to create new routines. If nothing else, let us never again take for granted the gift of freedom. In this moment, I also feel gratitude for my job in the pharmacy. Despite my ups and downs with the profession and our healthcare system, I appreciate that pharmaceuticals can be life-saving in acute circumstances. Though working on the front lines of this medical war comes with risk, I am more empowered to serve the ill than remain sequestered at home. Working at OHSU will continue to shape my perspective as we move forward in this state of emergency. So far, the hospital has been eerily quiet as we make room and prepare for the anticipated surge over the next few weeks.

I will close with a touch of optimism by sharing my thoughts on how to stay healthy. The main idea is to boost the immune system by optimizing the microbiome lining the gut. The best way to do this is by eating whole, unprocessed, fibrous plant foods. Also try to move your body, get outside in nature, lean on your social circle for support and consider professional guidance. Finally, maintain a strong and positive mind; when you put yourself in a high vibration state, good things start to happen.

Family is everything

I sympathize with those around the world that are experiencing extreme suffering. May we all find a calming sense of light, peace and hope in this moment of crisis.

 

 

Cherry Blossoms

Do not underestimate the power of jet lag! After close to 35 hours of travel from Nepal and an 18-hour time change, it took over a week to adjust back to PST. The first 24 hours were especially challenging. Extra time was also needed to combat reverse culture shock, catch up with life, and reconcile new habits with old routines. Patience and self-kindness.






















But I was excited to be home--and just in time for spring! One of my favorite seasons seemed to arrive early with a warm and dry March (aside from a freak "snow storm"). The days gradually grew longer as the birds and daffodils returned.

 

Cherry blossoms have a short season in Portland. Peak bloom depends on weather, but is typically between late March and early April. The Japanese American Historical Plaza at Tom McCall Waterfront Park is a convenient location for blossom viewing. The 100 Akebono cherry trees that line the waterfront were gifted by the Japanese Grain Importers Association in 1990.

March 17th, 2020

 

With planting season just around the corner, my dream of becoming a gardener was set into motion with the receipt of a plot in the Colonel Summers Community Garden. Having been on the waitlist since moving to Portland, I was thrilled to earn a spot in the nearby garden. I have much to learn--another test of my patience--but I have been met with a genuine sense of camaraderie and warmth from the community. My goal is to enjoy my new hobby rather than let it become a chore. After all, the simple act of being outside feeds my soul. Additionally, while I hope to yield all manner of fruits, vegetables and flowers, I would be wise to accept the possibility that nothing will grow my first season.

 

On the theme of healthy living, a night off from work allowed me to listen to Dr. Neal Barnard speak at Powell's Bookstore. Nutrition researcher and president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, Dr. Barnard explained how food affects our hormones and health, as evidenced in his new book, Your Body in Balance. He inspired the attentive audience with his charisma and easy-to-digest material. A signed copy of his book is now the fourth in my collection of works written by my plant-based heroes.

 

In terms of physical activity, another unexpected curve ball has been thrown my way. March 9th was the third anniversary of "Survivor's Day"--a traumatic skiing accident that broke my knee and changed the trajectory of my life. Fully recovered, though never quite the same, I have not had any new issues with my knees until now; I likely tore my meniscus due to overuse in my yoga program. While yoga can heal the body, mind and spirit, it is possible to overdo it (i.e., a month of intense yoga training). Unlike the original trauma, I am remaining calm in rehabbing my knees under the guidance of my skilled physical therapist at Pedal PT. We are optimistic that the tear will heal on its own as I strengthen the muscles supporting my knees. Relying on low-impact exercises, I have delicately put on hold my 2020 goal to train for triathlons. Instead, I am focusing on light swimming and cycling, in addition to modified yoga at nearby studio Love Hive.

 

Finally, the last piece of news that I have to report on is Portland Dining Month. Every March, the city's top restaurants offer three-course meals for $33. This is a great opportunity to test out new foodie spots. Tom and I were not disappointed with East Burnside's Hey Love, a trendy vegan-friendly lounge. We also added Stormbreaker Brewing to my local brew list (#32).