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Jack and Jackie O’ Lantern, renowned and loved master jack-o-lanterns, stopped by BIOM to rest up a bit after their busy Halloween tour of the Northwest, where they inspired people with their bright smiles, and luminous lore about the benefits of quiet reflection, and ways to nourish yourself during this dark time ... until the light returns.  Kitty: So, Jackie, you and Jack attended many ceremonies celebrating another successful harvest. What were some of the highlights for you? Jackie O’ Lantern: Before I tell you, I just want to say how nice it is to see you again Kitty. It’s been wonderful cooking with you and sharing health tips. The synergy between people and pumpkins always amazes me, and makes me glow in a very special way ... so ...  the highlights of our trip ... There was one particular Halloween celebration we attended that was quite unique. The people who brought us over were celebrating a Celtic ceremony they called “Sowin.” It was a crisp, clear, star-filled Autumn night, with a simple, bright bonfire, lit and maintained by a Chippewa/Ojibwa Road Chief. The ceremony was led by Druids, bagpipes were played, and a Buddhist monk added his chant. But this year I heard lots of talk about war and politics, and saw more confusion and fear in people than usual during this time of celebration. So when the gatherings we attended allowed for it, we inspired the storyteller to speak of what people can do to take care of themselves to stay calm, balanced, and healthy while the energy of this time works itself through us. Kitty: Would you share with us some of what was said? Jackie O’ Lantern: Mostly, people were reminded to take care of themselves; that’s the thing people do least well and least of all. The stories told of how Winter is a time that puts a lot of stress on the body, a stress that’s more severe than what’s felt during the other seasons, so it’s very important to be mindful of how you’re feeling, and to do those things that build and maintain strength. Kitty:What are some examples? Jackie O’ Lantern: Very simple things, like: Keep yourself warm by wearing the right types of clothes. Eat warming foods. Do Chi Kung. Use the type of Chinese medical herbs that you prescribe to people. By doing these kinds of things, a person’s body will balance, strengthen, and stay healthy. Kitty: Adding to the seasonal stress people experience approaching and during winter, are the fear and anxiety you mentioned arising from this time of war and terrorism. What do you suggest for managing so much stress? Jackie O’ Lantern: Rest more. In simpler times, people adapted their lifestyles to the rhythm of the seasons. Winter brings less light, and more darkness, so traditionally people rested more during Winter. But today, people have so much more control over the environment, and tend to overdo it. So this Winter, people should try to rest more; especially if you have any existing weaknesses in your health, because if you get too tired out in Winter, that affects your constitution at a foundational level, making it harder to regain that vitality in Spring. Kitty: Great advice ... Jackie O’ Lantern: People just need to slow down, and be kinder to themselves, and each other. Kitty: I can think of an easy to do that! Why don’t you tell the readers how to make the delicious and nutritious Peaceful Pumpkin Soup you made for us this afternoon. Jackie O’ Lantern:  I’d be happy too! People should always try to eat foods in the season they’re harvested, and as close to where they grew as possible. This way you get fresh nutrients tailored to the time of year you’re living in. Also, try to eat as much organic food as you can: pesticides aren’t too good for your health. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Peaceful Pumpkin Soup is a very nourishing seasonal dish, that’s high in nutrients. It helps bring the body into balance, and a balanced body is a healthy body - and health is a peaceful feeling. You should always try to eat foods that are “in season” because they provide what you need during the season they’re harvested. Peaceful Pumpkin Soup Ingredients 1 small sugar pie pumpkin. 1 medium onion, chopped. 1 clove of garlic, minced. 1 teaspoon of salt. 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Soy sauce, for taste (optional) Instructions Select an organic pumpkin and scrub the skin clean. Cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds. Cut the pumpkin into chunks with the skin still on, then steam or bake until tender. Allow the pumpkin to cool, trim off the skin, then sauté with chopped onions until translucent. Add the garlic and cook until light gold. Add the salt, the pumpkin pieces, and one cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes so flavors have time to blend. Puree with a blender, and season to your taste with more salt or soy sauce if desired. Related Links Thanksgiving Interview with Jack O’ Lantern Jack O’ Lantern’s Halloween Health Tips Halloween Interview with Jack O’ Lantern No Flu for You Staying Healthy in Winter 5 Element Diet & Nutrition5 Element Coaching for Health Food That Heals http://www.biom.net/index.php/444/