Healthy Living – Beijing Kids

Chris Hayden’s Kids Get Motivated By Curiosity And Fun

Vivienne Tseng-Rush — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 03:00:09 +0000

Our expat community thrives on connection, and here at jingkids, we’re all about our readers, and what they need and want in order to maximize their time here in Beijing. Every week, we will feature a prominent member of our expat community and get to know them a little bit better.

Hello! My name is Chris Hayden and I am an international school educator working at the Western Academy of Beijing. Originally from California, my wife and I have lived in Indonesia (where all three of our children were born) for the last 12 years. Moving to China was quite a change for us as we have deep roots in Indonesia with a strong set of community relationships and well-established routines there. While we have visited China before, this is our first time living and working here. I am passionate about science and education and have found Beijing is an exciting place to be for both those areas of interest.

What’s On Your Mind?

The past year we travelled and lived across three different countries and while it has been stressful, there was a significant amount of adventure! I think this is one of the most rewarding aspects of being an international family. Giving our family an international perspective and experiencing different cultures is something we really value as parents. The downside to that is being away from our family and friends in our home countries for extended periods, but this also makes the time spent with them over the summer or during the holiday breaks that much more special.

What’s Your Motivation To Get Moving?

My wife and I both feel strongly about curiosity and fun learning as motivators for our children. We are constantly trying to expose them to unique experiences and give them a broad view of how the world works and how beautiful and fascinating our planet is! We want to foster lifelong learning and international mindsets in all three of our children (though our youngest is only beginning his journey as a learner being only one year old).

What Are Some of Your Favorite Family Activities To Do in Beijing?

Celebrating Indonesian Muslim holidays as well as discovering aspects of Chinese culture with local Chinese people and expatriates. We love discovering new things, meeting new people, and trying new food. The community where we live is alive with children playing and families interacting. It is wonderful to see and embrace these deep community connections and reflect on compare our own family connections in comparison.

What’s Your Favorite Thing About Beijing?

The bustling city life makes it feel like there is always another layer to unfold, a new person to meet, or a new restaurant or dish to try. It is a complex and dynamic city that is also connected globally. Often we have been surprised to meet people with connections in California or other places in the US, or even Indonesia.

KEEP READING: Caroline Trautwein Leads a Well Fitness Nutrition Challenge

Images: Chris Hayden

Caroline Trautwein Leads a Well Fitness Nutrition Challenge

Vivienne Tseng-Rush — Mon, 05 Sep 2022 03:00:56 +0000

Caroline Trautwein is a psychologist who loves to encourage people to live well. She is from Germany, where she studied and received her PhD in psychology. She currently holds the position of Professor for Business Psychology in the distance learning program of a German university. In 2016, she moved to China with her husband and 1-year-old son. She and her husband now have three children. She has a license in Pilates mat training and has worked as a personal trainer.

What’s on your mind?

A lot of day-to-day things are on my mind: Two of my children just started on-campus school after a six-month-long break: How are they adjusting emotionally and academically? My students are on my mind: How can I help them to engage with the study content in a meaningful manner? How can I write the textbook I am currently working on in an engaging and motivating way? Friends in hospital quarantine: When will they finally test negative and be released? Family and friends in Germany: How do we cope with being separated for so long? Our move back to Germany next year: How will we transition, especially the kids? What should we take, what should we leave? Where and how will we live? Society: How does it change under the influence of Covid, war, global warming…? How can we live better and happier?

What motivates you to get moving every day?

Sometimes, when I am tired at night, I wonder about that too. But then I just wake up the next morning, get up and keep going till everything is done for the day or the clock hits nine, and I use the rest of my waking time to read and wind down before going to bed.

What keeps you sane in all the madness?

Apart from my religious faith, my daily workouts: Shortly before Covid hit, I signed up for a 21-day fitness challenge with Well Women, and am forever grateful. Since February 2020, I workout for 30 minutes daily. This has helped me to become fitter and reconciled me with my body. It is also where my journey with fitness-related nutrition began.

Join Caroline in her upcoming Well Fitness Challenge where she will share about her journey with fitness and nutrition. While she is not a professional dietician, she hopes she can encourage other women to find an approach to nutrition that serves them well. She plans to have a four-week series with four articles introducing four different approaches to nutrition, which she herself has personally tried and tested. Moreover, the challenge will include activities in the Well Fitness group that encourage the participants to try out the four approaches by themselves and share their experiences, so that we can all learn with and from each other.

Scan the QR code in the poster below to join the challenge!

KEEP READING: Melissa Rodriguez Empowers People To Optimize Their Health

Images: Caroline Trautwein

Melissa Rodriguez Empowers People To Optimize Their Health

Vivienne Tseng-Rush — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 05:00:36 +0000

Melissa Rodriguez grew up in a home where natural therapies were the norm. She studied naturopathy in Canada, and has been in the field of health and wellness for over 15 years. In her current role at Beijing United Family Hospital as Patient Outreach and Education Manager, she supports individuals in their goals for disease prevention and helps them learn strategies to take control of their own health. Melissa is a sought-after public speaker and a trusted source who shares her knowledge on healthy living with others. She believes optimal health is a goal we can all achieve, and she empowers people to achieve optimal health with the appropriate education, guidance and support.

What’s on your mind?

I have a lot of things on my mind lately. Like many people these days, I’m worried about the future. I think about all the things that are happening in the world and where we’re going. I’m hopeful that for humanity we will choose to come together and collaborate for the greater good and for the younger generations, and that we won’t take too long to figure it out.

What motivates you to get moving every day?

My motivation comes from my kids. I want to be my best self, the healthiest I can be in order to be the best parent that I can for them. And I think about my grandkids too. I guess that’s because I’m a long-term planner! My faith also gives me inspiration and encouragement to strive to be a better person day by day and contribute to the betterment of my community in any way I can.

What keeps you sane in all the madness?

I am always trying to improve my physical and mental health. I exercise. I pray, meditate, practice mindfulness and breathing exercises on a regular basis. I also enjoy spending time with my family and close friends. Last year we adopted two stray cats and they have been a surprising source of happiness to me. I never grew up with pets, so it’s been a wonderful experience for me – one that I think contributes to my overall well-being.

What’s your favorite thing about Beijing?

I love the hustle and bustle of the city. I like the opportunities for new experiences. I enjoy meeting new and interesting people, and discovering new places. I am fascinated by the history of this city. I love that Beijing offers a unique blend of modern and traditional China. It’s amazing to see those two elements blend harmoniously into one great metropolis. I’m grateful to have called Beijing my home for over 14 years.

Join Melissa on Tuesdays at noon when she hosts a free online session for cultivating health and wellness. Scan the QR code below to join the group.

KEEP READING: Taylor O’Brien is Off Track, and His Mom is OK with That

Images: Melissa Rodriguez

Tired of McD? Try These Healthier & Equally Cheap Waimai Options

Anne — Wed, 22 Jun 2022 05:00:20 +0000

Tired of resorting to McDonald’s for a quick lunch? Here are a couple of healthier, equally cheap Meituan waimai options.

You can put in 健康 (jiankang) in the search bar for all the restaurants on the app that offer healthy options, but we’ve taken the time to short list a few favorites to get you started.

When I think of ordering take-out, my mind automatically crosses to McDonald’s. Is it because we generally think of take-out as fast food, hence the association with the American Junk food company? I totally understand that not everyone has the time to cook, and sometimes we just feel like ordering food and watching TV. So how about instead of ordering McDonald’s (again!), we could try something more nutritious and balanced? If you are lost on what to order, I recommend these yummy alternatives on Meituan!

Avocado Tree （鳄梨树）

Avocado Tree first opened in Beijing in 2010. This dine-in salad bar also has a Wai-Mai option. They serve delicious Mexican-inspired salads and burritos, as well as a nice selection of juices and smoothies to compliment your order. It also serves as my go-to “healthy” Wai-Mai store, not only because of the cute packaging, but also because of the convenience and price. Their original salad bowls can be served as one meal and they come in four different types of flavors: chicken at 32 RMB, barbacoa (beef) at 40 RMB, tofu at 30 RMB and Carnitas (pork) at RMB 32.

You can find them on Meituan. Just type in “Avocado Tree”.

(Menu from their website: https://www.avocadotreechina.com )

Foodbowl (超级碗餐厅)

This casual restaurant serves yummy salad bowls that come in different flavors such as tofu, chicken, beef, salmon, and shrimp. You first order a basic bowl and then include add-ins! Prices range from RMB 37-50. I love their vegetables because they are cooked and marinated to perfection. It is a delicious comfort food salad and can also be eaten during the colder months as well.

You can find them on Meituan. Just type in “Foodbowl”.

Green Option

This healthy restaurant also serves delectable salad bowls. However, the portions are slightly smaller so it might be better to order them as sides to the main meal. My personal favorite is their chicken salad, served with feta cheese, sweet pumpkin, crunchy onions, and creamy avocado. Their flavor combinations are top-tier and provide a delicious variety of flavor.

You can find them on Meituan. Just type in “Green Option”.

Annie’s （安妮意大利餐厅）

Hear me out! My opinion might be controversial, but Annie’s salads are great! It’s also a great solution if your family wants to eat pizza, but you want something healthier! I personally love their Greek salad!

You can find them on Meituan. Just type in “Annie’s”.

So now you have four alternatives healthier than McDonald’s!

Of course, these aren’t the only options, as there are many local restaurants and cafes on Meituan that also serve healthy and delicious food! I strongly encourage you to explore and find your own personal favorite. Have fun ordering!

Images: Anne E, Unsplash

Plant-Based Lifestyles Blossom at Beijing’s VeggieWorld Expo

Drew Pittock — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 02:00:02 +0000

It’s pretty hard to ignore the fact that plant-based lifestyles are quickly taking root all over the world, with fast-food giants such as KFC, Subway, and McDonald’s adding vegan and vegetarian items to their menus in a frenzied attempt to keep up with the growing demand for cruelty-free ingredients. The current concerns about global warming and a sustainable future have caused people to stop and seriously consider where their food is coming from, what resources it requires to produce, and which populations, both human and animal, are the most vulnerable as we plow through the natural world filling our bellies.

Whereas historically, in the West, vegetarian and vegan diets have largely been a response to animal welfare advocated for by wacky hippies, in China the tradition of plant-based living is much longer and richer. In fact, that staple of all meat-free diets, tofu, appeared in China during the Han Dynasty roughly 2,000 years ago, forever changing the landscape of Chinese and plant-based cuisine.

Ancient tofu makers

So it’s welcome news that Beijing will finally host its first trade fair for a plant-based lifestyle in cooperation with German-based group VeggieWorld. Held at the Beijing International Convention Center from Nov 8-10 (which incidentally coincides with World Vegan Month), VeggieWorld Beijing will bring together more than 50 vendors and purveyors of plant-based products including clothing and shoes, cosmetics, superfoods and supplements, as well as faux meats, cheeses, and eggs.

While Early Early Bird ticket sales have closed, Early Bird tickets can still be purchased using the QR code on the flyer below from now until November 3 for RMB 48 for one person or RMB 80 for two people, with tickets rising to RMB 58 per person if purchased at the box office on the day of the event.

In addition to the public expo, industry leaders will also be participating in the second Future Food Summit Forum, which will tackle such issues as the future of alternative proteins in China, innovation and technological responses to meat alternatives, and entrepreneurship and investment opportunities in the next generation of food.

Beginning in Wiesbaden, Germany in 2011, VeggieWorld expos have since found homes in 19 cities across ten countries. As the platform continues to grow, so too does the diversity of products and industries represented, proving that plant-based lifestyles aren’t just about diets anymore, and that the sky is the limit for renewable resources and a greener, healthier future.

For more information, click here.

Photos: VeggieWorld, ltl-school.com, theworldlink.com

Family Foodie: 5 Easy & Tasty Ways to Get Your Healthy Fix Through WeChat

Max Fu — Sat, 07 Jul 2018 02:00:25 +0000

While no food should be considered a “guilty” pleasure (remember, moderation is key!) it is an unfortunate fact that some of our favorite indulgences don’t exactly provide the most in terms of nutritional and health benefits. After all, as much as it is perfectly fine to satisfy your sweet tooth with the occasional cookie, we all know that no one—parents and kids alike—should be chowing down on that delectable doughy, sweet confection all day, every day. Wouldn’t that be nice, though?

This post is perfect for anyone trudging through one of those dreaded mid-week cravings! Moderately priced, convenient, and (most importantly) both healthy and delicious: don’t hesitate to check out these five vendors selling wholesome homemade treats made with fresh and natural ingredients of all varieties. And if you’re worried about convenience, these vendors all host WeChat pages through which you can place your order and simply wait for your delicacies to be delivered straight to your doorstep!

Morning Lab
Want a cookie? Morning Lab offers a plethora of your and your family’s favorite classics, from the likes of cookies to brownies. Their goodies are guaranteed to be fresh—baked and shipped on the daily. Indulge also in a selection of yogurt and granola bowls featuring some of their signature recipes. All products use only simple and whole ingredients and contain minimal to no sugar as well as no oil, butter, or flour. Note: Products are also suitable for Ketogenic diets. WeChat: morninglab

Yeyo Yogurt
Tired of the sugar and preservative packed yogurt options that plague the fridges of every convenience store? Yeyo Yogurt offers a unique selection of different flavors of hand-crafted yogurts paired with simple ingredient toppings and all-natural sweeteners. Their yogurt range is all dairy-free, and features healthy coconut milk as its primary component, in the stead of regular cow’s milk. WeChat: yeyo-yogurt

Dali Bars
Let’s steer clear of that Snickers bar for a moment. Look here instead—Dali Bars is a Chinese business started by a trio of entrepreneurs from the United States, offering specialty all-natural fruit and nut bars with no added sugars and whole ingredients. Their range offers a variety of unique flavors including Apple Pie and Cocoa Almond. WeChat: dalibars

NAKED Nut Butters
Just as their CEO and co-founder proudly claims: “Less is more”! NAKED Nut Butters offers a delicious deviation from the distinct and widely recognizable flavors of processed peanut butter of brands like Skippy and Jif. But let’s face it: from the hydrogenation to the added sugars and artificial flavors, these big name brands aren’t exactly helping our healthy lifestyles. Try NAKED Nut Butters—their specialty almond and cashew butters all use no more than two to three ingredients, and are sure to delight. WeChat: nakednutbutters

Bu Shao
Bu Shao offers a homemade range of locally sourced whole-ingredient snacks such from the likes fruit leather to granola. Forget the additives, sugars, and fats of store-brand snacks—this is the place to go for some convenient on-the-go eats that will benefit your daily schedule (and your waistline). Also: don’t forget to check out their variety of uniquely flavored kale chips with only one key ingredient—kale! WeChat: bushao2015

Photos: Feedspot.com, TheBeijinger.com, Iliangcang.com, Dalibars.com

Tennis Star Li Na and Element Fresh Team Up for ‘Vitality Series’

Nimo_Wanjau — Sat, 04 Apr 2015 00:00:25 +0000

Two names associated with a healthy lifestyle, recently retired tennis star Li Na and Shanghai-based restaurant chain Element Fresh, are serving up a new spring/summer menu called the Element Fresh & Li Na Vitality Series.

“I am more than an athlete, with many roles to play. I love the challenges, the diversity of my life and I love fresh food, the source of vitality!” Li said of her new turn in the kitchen.

The first three entrees in this series are: Blue Cheese, Chicken and Apple Salad (an American-style chopped salad featuring grilled chicken breast, blue cheese, California raisins, apple, crispy bacon, chopped lettuce, and honey-mustard dressing); Warm Spinach Salad and Salmon Fillet (flash sautéed fresh spinach, carrots, edamame, green lentils, and yellow bell peppers with seared salmon, finished with grilled cucumber flowers and lemon-tarragon dressing); and Fire and Ice Tuna (spicy ahi tuna grilled medium rare, ice greens with cucumber, jicama, and wasabi vinaigrette, and kombu potato salad with shiso and sesame).

Li, who is expecting her first child this summer, is also touting two fresh shakes: the Red Dragon (a combination of orange and red dragon fruit); and the Avocado-Coconut Smoothie (fresh avocado, coconut milk, bananas, spinach).

Wait, avocado, coconut milk, and spinach?

We stopped by Element Fresh in Tai Koo Li Thursday night to taste that last item. The mix of coconut and avocado made it probably the creamiest smoothie we’ve ever had. While the green color speaks of avocado and spinach, the taste is all coconut. It’s a pretty nice addition for the warm-weather menu.

The Element Fresh & Li Na Vitality Series menu items are incorporated into the Element Fresh Spring/Summer 2015 menu, look for the distinctive red logo to try them.

This post first appeared on thebeijinger.com on April 3, 2015.

Photos courtesy of Element Fresh