Feeling flat?BOOSTING YOUR LIBIDO with Chinese medicine

Chinese Medicine & Low Libido

Defining sexual dysfunction is tricky, because we are all individual and have different feelings and expectations regarding what’s ‘normal’ for us, ranging from being highly sexual to rarely interested. However, issues may occur when your own level of sexual interest and function changes, or isn’t aligned with that of your partner. To a certain extent, it’s normal for sexual desire to wax and wane and a low sex drive is often the result of major life changes such as illness, having a baby, menopause or ironically from the pressure of trying to have a baby. When the solution is pills for men, an anti-depressant or injection for women, all with side effects, lets look at a more natural approach, that, yes, will take more time, but it will be so worth it with long lasting results.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), low libido and poor sexual function are often seen as an imbalance of Yin (female energies) and Yang (male energies)

In particular, as they relate to the Kidney organ-meridian system (which in TCM includes not only the kidneys themselves, but also the sexual organs and hormones). When the functioning of the Kidney organ-meridian, Kidney Yin and Kidney Yang are healthy and in balance, sexual vitality and performance are also likely to be strong. However, deficiency of Kidney Yang may dampen sex drive, and low levels of Kidney Yin may decrease stamina and performance (even if the desire for sex remains). Kidney Yin and Kidney Yang perpetually influence each other. All imbalances have different diagnoses in Chinese medicine and are treated with different combinations of herbs and regular acupuncture treatments.

SO WHAT CAN WE DO:

1. Movement

Women can often hold tension and repressed emotions in the pelvic area which can lead to stagnant sexual desire. Repressed emotions don’t disappear, instead, they reveal themselves in unhealthy ways and disrupt harmony in the body. The liver, in Chinese medicine, is believed to play the primary role in regulating and ventilating the flow of qi, blood, and fluids in the body's circulatory systems. The liver meridians regulate the menstrual cycle and circulate blood and hormones to and from the the uterus, ovaries, and sex organs. The Chinese medicine mindful movement Qi Gong, is an amazing movement to bring into your daily routine as there are many styles of qigong that are specifically targeted for circulation in these channels and to get the energy moving. It can help you restore your libido if you practise regularly. This qigong style is unique in that the sexual qi is quickly charged as you do the exercises, which involve shaking and vibrating the sexual organs. If your low libido comes from a place of deficiency rather than stagnation, there are numerous routines and sequences to slowly start building back up your energy and therefore build back up your sexual energy and desire. Overtraining your body can result in depleting already depleted reserves.

2. nourishing nutrition

Healthy sexuality depends on the healthy energy that you put into it, so all the attention we pay to sexuality revolves around good management of Qi (energy). You can’t put pour from an empty cup. In Chinese medicine when we look at treating low libido, we look at nutrition that will strengthen our kidney energy. This is where the real long term solutions come into play. Foods that strengthen kidney yin are red dates, black sesame seeds, seaweed, grains like barley & millet, walnuts, black beans, kidney beans, and veggies like string bean, sweet potato, tomato, water chestnut, yam, zucchini.

Herbs:
Maca is a root plant native to South America that is said to nourish the endocrine glands which produce and release sex hormones, so improving vaginal sensitivity as well as stimulating the hypothalamus, pituitary and adrenal glands, which in turn support and balance hormones and so boost flagging desire. Add a teaspoonful of the powder to a smoothie or hot drink daily.
If depression and fatigue are responsible for low libido, tonic herbs like ginseng and ashwagandha help build stamina and energy, regulate metabolic rate and protect against mental and emotional stress.

There are also some foods that are known as natural aphrodisiacs. Figs, bananas and avocados are considered libido-boosting and also provide important vitamins and minerals that can increase blood flow to the genitals and promote a health sex life.

As a general rule eat ‘food of love’ - A vibrant, energising, balanced diet plays a major role in delivering the same benefits in the bedroom, while heavy, fatty foods will make you feel sluggish. We all know that food affects your mood, behaviours and most importantly your relationship and sex drive.

3. Treatments

Acupuncture |

Acupuncture is increasingly an applied treatment for numerous sexual health conditions, it has become a popular, natural treatment for improving libido without side effects. Taking a whole body approach to issues like low libido, acupuncturists understand that challenges with libido can be an indication of a deeper, underlying issue. Acupuncture works to restore optimal health rather than suppressing or masking a particular symptom and essentially encouraging your body to do its normal job and functioning - equilibrium.

Acupuncture increases your sex drive by:

• Improving circulation - Acupuncture promotes blood flow along the pathways that surround the reproductive and other organs that affect sex drive

• Balancing hormones—Acupuncture helps stimulate hormonal glands

• Relieving stress—Acupuncture can restore emotional balance and help you relax

• Your practitioner can also work with you on a range of individual dietary and lifestyle choices that may be preventing your body from being in its optimal sexual health status

Herbal Medicine |

Herbal medicine can be a wonderful way to support your body as your herbalist can combine herbs to make formulas and tonics specific to your individual needs. For example, formulas can be created to nourish your blood in combination with herbs to improve circulation which is vital for hormonal and sexual health. For women, herbs that help to regulate the menstrual cycle and support healthy female reproductive function include white Peony root and Dong Quai.

Tao Hong Si Wu Tang is a popular blood nourishing formula. They are often taken with female reproductive tonics traditionally used to tone and preserve the Yin (such as Rehmannia, Chinese Licorice and Ginger) and promote the flow of Qi (energy) and Blood to the ovaries, uterus and pelvis (such as tangkuei and Chinese Angelica root). Chinese medicine has a long tradition of using safe, gentle aphrodisiacs and may be all you need to get your sex life back on track.

At-Home Acupressure |

Acupressure can be a really lovely way to stimulate circulatory points but to also connect with your partner with touch. Touching is a powerful thing, especially in areas that relate to a holistic view of your partner and research shows that the act of physically touching your partner helps create intimacy and relieve stress. So get your favourite oils ready.

• Give a foot massage & incorporate these points

KIDNEY 1
On the sole, in the depression when the foot is in plantar flexion, approximately at the anterior third and the posterior two thirds of the line from the web between the 2nd and 3rd toes to the back of the heel.

SPLEEN 4
On the medial/inside aspect of the foot, in the depression distal and inferior to the base of the first metatarsal bone.

Gently massage Kidney 1 (KI1) and Spleen 4 (SP4), which are both located on the feet. These are considered very powerful points for balancing the subtle energies in the body while simultaneously promoting an increase in blood flow to the core of the body. Both of these points are directly and intimately connected to both the male and female reproductive organs. A foot massage will also give a quick boost of circulation and warmth to the feet, Chinese medicine maintains that cold feet means poor circulation and poor circulation makes it harder to orgasm. This may also give you a pass to continue wearing socks during sex!!

• Massage Stomach 30

Level with the superior edge of the pubic bone, 2 cun (roughly 2 finger- breaths) lateral to the mid-line. It can also be found halfway from the midline to the lateral border of the rectus abdominis muscle at that level. Stomach 30 (ST30) is right near a main artery, which again, helps to increase blood flow in the body. Slowly press on this pressure point for a few seconds, hold, and release.

4. Self Care

Join Forces |
In ancient Chinese medicine philosophy, yin and yang (night/day, hot/cold) is a concept of dualism, describing how seemingly opposite or contrary forces may actually be complementary, interconnected, and interdependent in the natural world, and how they may give rise to each other as they interrelate to one another. These interactions require a mutual interdependence and connection. Poor sexual health and low libido can often have roots in a lack of connection with your partner. This can happen for a variety of reasons, lack of time, stress, busy schedules with children etc. Make time for date night or allow space where intimacy and connection can happen.
From a Chinese medicine perspective, sex, in the context of a supportive relationship, is important. The Taoist sages would say that having sex connects us energetically to our partners. This is known as He Qi, which literally means “joining energy.” It refers to the way that in a good sexual relationship, both partners contribute energy to each other. By doing this, the Taoists believed that it was possible to use sex to increase lifespan and heal the body.

Sleep & Time |
Many of us have a hectic lifestyle that can lead to sleep deprivation. Being busy also makes it difficult to make time for sex and intimacy. People who balance work with caring for aging parents or young children are often left exhausted, which can lead to a reduced sex drive. It is like during from an empty cup. At times we all need to reflect where we can cut down on unnecessary stress or rushing around. Try and prioritise what needs to be done in the week, you may have more time than you think on your hands.

Stress Management |
No matter how healthy you are, being stressed out can affect your sex drive and decrease your kidney Qi (energy). Women are particularly susceptible to the effects that stress can have on one’s sex life, according to research. Try to manage the stress in your life with rituals and practices that resonate with you, such as mindful movement (yoga, Qi Gong), meditation, time for you. This also allows time for connection with yourself, as if this is lost than connection with others can be hard.

Starting the New Year Gently: A Wellness Guide

As the calendar turns to a new year, the temptation to dive headfirst into ambitious resolutions can be strong. However, embracing a gentle approach to the year ahead can foster long-term balance and wellness. Here are some strategies to ease into the new year with care and intention.

1. Reflect Before You Resolve

Before setting goals, take time to reflect on the past year. What brought you joy? What felt draining? Journaling about these experiences can provide valuable insights into what you want to carry forward and what you might leave behind.

2. Embrace Slow Mornings

Instead of rushing into a packed schedule, prioritise slow, intentional mornings. This might include sipping a warm cup of tea, practicing gentle stretches, or simply taking a few moments to breathe deeply and set a positive tone for the day.

3. Nourish Your Body

Support your body with wholesome, grounding foods. Incorporate winter pantry essentials like ginger, bone broth, Manuka honey, and warming spices to boost immunity and digestion. Ghee can also be a comforting addition to meals, providing both flavor and nourishment.

4. Focus on Small, Sustainable Changes

Rather than overhauling your life overnight, commit to small, achievable changes. For example, add five minutes of mindfulness practice to your daily routine or swap one processed snack for a nutrient-rich alternative. Keep yourself in a positive winning mindframe rather than overcommitting and falling into a negative spiral. 

5. Prioritise Rest and Recovery

The winter months invite a natural slowing down. Honor this by prioritising rest. Allow yourself extra sleep, cozy evenings with a good book, or relaxing baths to restore both body and mind.

6. Connect with Nature

Even in colder weather, spending time outdoors can be incredibly grounding. Bundle up and take a brisk walk, breathe in the fresh air, and notice the quiet beauty of the winter landscape.

7. Practice Gratitude

Starting a daily gratitude practice can shift your perspective and cultivate a sense of contentment. Write down three things you’re grateful for each day, no matter how small they may seem.

8. Be Kind to Yourself

Remember, progress doesn’t have to be linear. There will be days when motivation wanes, and that’s okay. Practice self-compassion and remind yourself that every small step counts.

By approaching the new year with gentleness, you create a foundation for sustainable wellness and a more mindful, joyful life. Here’s to a year of ease and intention. 

Our top tips to Surviving and enjoying the Festive Season

Christmas can be a wonderful time of year but it can also bring up a lot of emotion that can be difficult to navigate, family dynamics, financial stress , social anxiety and loneliness. Sound familiar?

Our advice is to plan ahead now for some of the triggers that might come up for you and your individual situation. Not every stress can be eliminated but paying attention to what has a tendancy to throw you out of balance or trigger you and putting some simple practices/ boundaries in place can make a huge difference to how you enjoy this holiday.

1. Set some non-negotiables

This can mean different things to different people but we recommend making them small and manageable so even on a chaotic day, they still get achieved. Setting these boundaries can be really empowering and make you feel you are taking care of your well-being on a ongoing basis rather than it all falling apart. Achieving this small act every day can have such a ripple effect on your mental health. People who succeed have momentum. The more they succeed, the more they want to succeed, and the more they find a way to succeed. Similarly, when someone is failing, the tendency is to get on a downward spiral that can even become a self-fulfilling prophecy. Reflect on what small act every day will have the biggest impact for you, perhaps 5 minutes meditation, 10 minutes walk outside in nature by yourself etc.

2. Acknowledge the emotion

As always in Chinese medicine, prevention is better than cure - and knowledge is power. Recognising that you are, for example, an anxious person by nature means you’ve won half the battle. Once you know, you can focus in on what triggers you and what your typical emotion is in order to process it.

Own It - Recognise and name it

Shift it - Techniques to release it - breathwork, shaking, exercise, healing sounds, body tapping

Regularity - These techniques may seem simple but that’s why they work - they need to be simple so we do them consistently. If the emotion is one that you’re experiencing often, practise shifting it everyday wither its through breathe work, shaking, bamboo tapping, body tapping

3. Breathework

‘The perfected breathe all the way to their heels, unlike ordinary folk who only breathe as far as their throats’

                                                                          - ZHUANGZI,   3RD CENTUARY BCE

Practicing breath work is one of the cheapest and most effective stress management techniques that you have at your disposal. The beauty of breathwork is, it is not a complicated process and can have an immediate impact on how you feel. Box breathing is a valuable mindfulness technique that can aid in stress management. It's a handy breath exercise to use because it is very simple and therefor easy to remember.
This is a breathing technique that the Navy SEALs use, they are frequently placed in high-stress situations and use this to focus and calm. It is recommended to save it for moments when you need a quick hit of calm, so using this breath before difficult conversations or if I want to feel more focused when going into a meeting is a good idea.

Breathe in for four counts through your nose.

• Hold for four counts.

• Breathe out for four counts through your nose or mouth.

• Hold for four counts.

If you are new to breath exercises and you find counting to four is to long then start with the count of two and see if you can gradually make your way to the count of four with time and patience.

4. Priming Hour

During the holiday season, there is a wonderful let go of structure and routine, alarm clocks and lazy lie in’s - happy days. However, we do recommend keeping a good morning routine that suits you best, instead of falling into endless scrolling online. The positive effects of priming on psychology have been proven again and again. You can learn to change your state of mind by changing your physical state with an effective priming routine. Priming is most powerful when completed in the morning to set a powerful tone for your day. You can prime yourself positively or negatively depending on what you allow into your mind. So how you start your day is so important - set up your morning routine away from phones and unnecessary stimulus. Morning rituals like meditation, mindful movement, hot water and lemon to begin your digestion, get 10 minutes outside in daylight. These are all wonderful ways to begin your day physically and mentally. Practicing priming can change your whole day.

5. Have your own stress management toolbox ready to go!

Here are some of the tips we recommend.

CHECK OUT OUR PANTRY REMEDY ARTICLE FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

Overindulgence Remedies for the Festive Season

Overindulgence, especially during festivities or holidays, is a common challenge that can leave us feeling heavy, bloated, and sluggish. Rich foods, large portions, and indulgent treats often take center stage during celebrations, putting extra strain on the digestive system. While these moments of enjoyment are a cherished part of the season, the discomfort that follows can dampen the joy. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers time-tested remedies and practices to help alleviate these issues and restore balance to the body. By tuning into natural rhythms and supporting digestion with mindful practices, TCM provides a gentle and effective way to recover from festive indulgence.

Here are some tips inspired by TCM principles to help you feel your best.

1. Herbal Tea Remedies

• Hawthorn and Rose Tea

Ingredients:

• 10g dried hawthorn berries

• 5g dried rose petals

• 500ml water

• Rock sugar or honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the hawthorn berries and rose petals.

2. Add them to boiling water.

3. Simmer for 10 minutes.

4. Strain and serve warm, sweetened if needed.

Benefits: This tea improves digestion, especially after consuming fatty or rich foods, while soothing emotions (as overeating can sometimes be linked to stress).

• Mint and Licorice Root Tea

Ingredients:

• 5g dried mint leaves (Bo He)

• 5g licorice root (Gan Cao)

• 500ml water

Instructions:

1. Boil water and add the mint leaves and licorice root.

2. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

3. Strain and drink warm.

Benefits: This tea clears heat, refreshes the mouth, and supports digestion after overeating spicy or greasy foods.

2. Acupressure

Acupoints to focus on:

1. Zusanli (ST36)

• Location: About four fingers below the kneecap, slightly to the outside of the shinbone.

• How: Apply firm circular pressure for 1–2 minutes on each side.

2. Neiguan (PC6)

• Location: On the inner wrist, three finger widths below the base of the palm, between the tendons.

• How: Gently press to alleviate nausea or bloating.

3. Dietary Adjustments

• Warm, Easy-to-Digest Foods: Focus on congee (rice porridge), steamed vegetables, or soups to soothe the stomach.

• Avoid: Cold, raw, or greasy foods, as they burden the digestive system further.

• Try to maintain regularity in eating over the holidays

4. Exercise

• Gentle Movement: Practices like qigong, tai chi, or a light walk stimulate digestive Qi (energy) and promote circulation without straining the body.

5. Digestive Massage

• Abdominal massage: Rub your hands together to warm them, then massage your abdomen in circular motions clockwise (following the natural direction of digestion).

6. Hydration

• Why: Warm water helps flush toxins and dampness from the body. Adding a slice of lemon can enhance its detoxifying effect. Try to avoid cold, iced drinks at this time of year as it will put your digestion under further pressure

CHECK OUT OUR PANTRY REMEDY ARTICLE FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON

What is an Infrared Sauna, and What Are the Benefits?

In the world of health & wellness, the infrared sauna is creating a lot of buzz, offering a unique and potentially more comfortable alternative to traditional saunas. From supporting mental relaxation to physical recovery, infrared saunas are gaining popularity as a go-to for holistic health. But what exactly is an infrared sauna, and how can it benefit you?

What is an Infrared Sauna?

An infrared sauna uses infrared light to create heat, rather than heating the air around you, as in traditional saunas. This type of heat penetrates your skin more deeply, warming your body directly without the stifling temperature of conventional saunas. The bench, walls and fixtures are not hot to the touch. Infrared saunas typically operate at a much lower temperature—between 120°F and 150°F—compared to traditional saunas, which can reach up to 195°F. Infrared heat is a natural, safe energy that all objects, including our bodies, give and receive. It's so gentle that hospitals use it to warm newborns. When a mother rubs her baby’s stomach, it’s the infrared warmth from her hand that soothes.

Infrared Saunas Versus Traditional and Steam Saunas

The main difference between infrared saunas and traditional saunas is how they use heat. Traditional saunas use a single heater that is heating the air and this hot air heats the user. In contrast, infrared saunas use advanced therapy to promote heat generation in the body with only a small percentage of the heat heating the air. This results in a deeper sweat and at a lower ambient air temperature. In fact, infrared saunas usually operate between 115° – 135°F, while traditional saunas can get up to 195°F.

You will get all of the relaxation benefits of a traditional infrared sauna along with the increased health benefits that infrared offers all at a much more comfortable temperature. Infrared saunas are also dry saunas and many users find this makes for a more comfortable sauna session.

Key Benefits of Infrared Sauna Therapy

• Detoxification

Sweating is one of the body’s natural ways of eliminating toxins. Infrared saunas promote a deep, detoxifying sweat at a cellular level, assisting the body in expelling heavy metals, environmental pollutants, and other toxins.

• Pain Relief and Muscle Recovery

The penetrating heat of infrared rays can help reduce inflammation and stiffness in joints and muscles, promoting blood flow and encouraging faster healing. This makes it especially popular among athletes and those with chronic pain conditions, such as arthritis.

• Stress Relief and Improved Mood

Spending time in an infrared sauna can release endorphins, the body’s natural "feel-good" hormones. The calming heat also promotes relaxation, helping to lower cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone, leading to an improved sense of well-being.

• Skin Health

Infrared heat therapy increases circulation, which can improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the skin. Regular sauna sessions may promote a clearer complexion, reduce acne, and improve the appearance of scars and other skin imperfections.

• Enhanced Circulation and Cardiovascular Health

Infrared sauna sessions increase heart rate, mimicking the effects of moderate exercise. Studies have shown that regular use can help lower blood pressure and improve circulation, benefiting cardiovascular health.

• Weight Loss Support

While it’s not a substitute for exercise, infrared saunas can aid in weight management. The elevated body temperature requires energy to cool down, slightly boosting calorie burn. Some research indicates that a half-hour session may help burn up to 600 calories, though results vary based on individual factors.

How to Use an Infrared Sauna Safely

For most people, using an infrared sauna 2–4 times per week for 20–30 minutes is ideal. Always stay hydrated before, during, and after each session. Starting with shorter sessions, especially if you’re new to sauna use, allows your body to adapt to the infrared heat. And if you’re pregnant, have cardiovascular concerns, or have a chronic health condition, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating sauna use into your routine.

Nurturing Wellness with Essential Oils This Autumn

As an acupuncturist, I’m always looking for ways to support my clients, not just on the acupuncture table but beyond. One way I do this is by recommending doTERRA essential oils, which are powerful, natural tools that help bring the essence of nature into your home. These oils are more than just pleasant scents—they carry unique properties that can support your health and wellness throughout the year.

Why I Choose doTERRA Essential Oils

I love doTERRA oils because of their commitment to quality and purity. You can even look up the purity of each bottle you buy on SourceToYou.com, which provides full transparency. All their oils go through third-party testing, so I know I’m using only the purest, Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade® (CPTG) essential oils in my treatments.

Plus, doTERRA’s Co-Impact Sourcing ensures that their oils are sourced from the best places in the world, right from their natural habitats. And, through the Healing Hands Foundation, they give back to the communities where these oils come from.

Three Ways to Use Essential Oils

1. Aromatically – Inhale directly or add a few drops to your diffuser. Benefits include calming emotions, boosting energy, opening airways, purifying the air, and promoting restful sleep.

2. Topically – Apply to the area of concern or the soles of your feet. This can soothe muscles, ease joint discomfort, calm skin irritations, and support the immune system.

3. Internally – Add a drop to water or food, or take in a capsule. Internally, oils can ease digestive upset, support the immune system, and enhance cellular health.

Essential Oils for Autumn Wellness

As the seasons change, so do our bodies’ needs. Autumn is a time when our immune systems and lungs need extra support. That’s why I recommend using oils like Frankincense, Lemon, OnGuard, Oregano, Tea Tree (Melaleuca), and Thyme. These oils can be blended into a roller bottle and applied to the soles of your feet and along your spine in the morning to give your immune system a boost.

If you’d like to dry an immune blend, try this “Immunity” blend:  In a 10ml roller bottle add the below number of drops of each oil and top up with a carrier oil of your choice.  I usually use a fractionated coconut oil, I find that it absorbs into the skin quickly.  This blend is for an adult.  *The number of drops of essential oils will be less when making for small children or babies.

• 5 drops of Frankincence 

• 10 drops of Lemon

• 5 drops of Oregano

• 10 drops of OnGuard

• 10 drops of Tea Tree

Thyme, in particular, is excellent for both immune and lung support, making it a great addition during this seasonal transition. Rosemary is another favorite of mine for promoting mental clarity and focus. If you’re feeling mentally foggy or need help concentrating, here’s one of my go-to blends:

• 2 drops of Peppermint

• 5 drops of Lemon

• 3 drops of Rosemary

This combination is perfect for promoting clarity, focus, and concentration—whether you're working on a project or just trying to stay sharp throughout the day.

A blend of Frankincense, Lemon, and OnGuard is also great for tackling sore throats—safe for both adults and children.  * When using oils with kids or babies, remember to always dilute them with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil. 

Here’s a simple diffuser blend to support your immune system this autumn:

• 3 drops of OnGuard

• 3 drops of Lemon

• 1 drop of Frankincense

• 1 drop of Tea Tree

Support Your Lungs and Relaxation During Autumn

Our lungs are especially important to care for as we transition from summer to autumn. My go-to oil for respiratory support is doTERRA’s Air blend. This minty, refreshing blend helps maintain feelings of clear airways, promotes restful sleep, and supports easy breathing. It includes powerful oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and lemon.

Here are some ways to use the Air blend:

• Diffuse it to clear airways and purify the air.

• Rub it on your chest, back, or soles of your feet with a carrier oil.

• Place a few drops on the floor of your shower to help open your airways in the morning.

• Combine it with Epsom salts in a warm bath for a soothing, calming experience.

Pairing Air with Lavender is perfect for winding down in the evening, especially for a restful night’s sleep. This combination is great for anyone who snores, or you can use Lavender on its own. Adding a few drops of Lavender to a bath with Epsom salts before bed can provide deep relaxation, helping you transition into a peaceful night’s sleep.

If you’re feeling stuffed up, try this “Breathe Easy” blend:  In a 10ml roller bottle add the below number of drops of each oil and top up with a carrier oil of your choice.  I usually use a fractionated coconut oil, I find that it absorbs into the skin quickly.

• 2 drops of Peppermint

• 1 drop of Frankincense

• 3 drops of Air

• 2 drops of Thyme

Apply it to your spine, chest, and feet several times a day to help clear congestion and feel better.

Rest and Immunity Go Hand in Hand

This selection of essential oils is designed to support your body through the change in season while promoting deep relaxation and restful sleep. A good night’s sleep is fundamental in keeping your immune system robust, so incorporating these oils into your daily routine will help you feel strong and energised as we move into the cooler months.

TAKING CARE OF OUR HEALTH THROUGH THE AUTUMN

WHY WE NEED TO CHANGE OUR HABITS THROUGH THE SEASONS!

Chinese Medicine & Ayurveda considers a seasonal routine an important cornerstone of health - all year round.

Seasons change….and our eating habits, lifestyle, physical activity and everything else needs to change accordingly. Simply because, our body is built in such a way that it responds to every season in a unique fashion. And we need to aid our body in doing so by adapting according to the needs of the season. When we fail to do so, that is when diseases come knocking.

According to Chinese Medicine, the season of Autumn is associated with the element of Metal, which governs organisation, order, communication, the mid, setting limits and protecting boundaries. It’s a good time to finish projects that you began in spring and summer. And of course, it’s also the perfect time to begin more introspective, indoor projects. During the summer, which is ruled by the fire element, we deal more with the external - travelling and playing outdoors. Autumn, on the other hand, is a time of organising your life for the winter season ahead and coming more inside your body and mind to reflect on your life. 

The lung and large intestine are the internal organs related to Autumn and the Metal element. Lung is associated with the emotion of “letting go”. This process is difficult for those who love the summer. They find it hard to give up the long days of sunlight, warm temperatures and open windows. Others feel differently and love autumn, from the crisper air to the vivid red, orange and yellow leaves on the trees.

“Health should not be just the absence of disease, but the feeling of wholeness, balance and resilience”

HOW CAN I STAY HEALTHY THROUGH THE AUTUMN SEASON?

• Acupuncture Treatment

Improving general health and well-being through acupuncture treatments can assist the body as we move through the seasonal changes. It can help restore imbalances caused through cyclical changes of the seasons by stimulating and strengthening the body’s immune system.

Acupuncture enhances the body’s natural healing abilities, whether preventative or curative. Seasonal acupuncture treatments can also assist by expelling pathogenic factors from the body during illness, while speeding up recovery. It can also help to retune the body’s defence system especially during extreme climatic changes that can directly affect the body. Acupuncture can increase energy levels, enhance overall mood and balance throughout the year.

• Autumn Season Exercise

The best time of day to exercise is the early morning and evening hours (6 - 10am and 6 -10pm). Start to consider slow, gentle, strengthening forms of exercise instead as the season starts to slow and invite us to go inwards. Walking, hiking, swimming, biking, yoga and tai chi are good choices. Remember to balance your activity with adequate relaxation and sleep so that your tissues rejuvenate properly. 

• Autumn Season Yoga

Incorporating a sense of warmth, grounding, stability, and focus into your yoga practice has a profoundly calming effect on your system. Your breath should be deep and fluid. If you practice pranayama (yogic breathing exercises),Nasi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) is very balancing this time of year. In your movement this season, warm up slowly and include some joint rotations. Move with intention and fluidity—grounding the hands and the feet on the mat whenever possible—and avoid jumping between postures.
Gentle flows like a relaxed Sun Salutation are perfect for this time of year. You can also favour standing and balancing poses such as Mountain, Warrior 1, Warrior 11 and Tree pose to increase stability and strength.
Connect with the earth beneath you in poses such as Thunderbolt, Cat-cow, Cobra and Child’s Pose, and quiet the mind with forward bends such as Intense Westward Stretch. Gentle inversions and restorative poses such as legs up the wall are also very good for this time of year. Close your practice with a long Savasana, covering yourself with a blanket so that you don’t get chilled.

• Autumn Season Lifestyle Choices

One of the most effective ways to support your body is by establishing a daily routine. Try to do the same things (wake up, exercise, eat meals, go to bed, etc.) at roughly the same times each day. Set the tone for your day by rising early, taking full advantage of the silence, stillness, and peace that are intrinsic to the early morning hours. Try to stay clear of digitals for at least the first hour. Then, you can calm your nervous system, awaken your tissues, and ground your energy by massaging your skin with warm, organic sesame oil.. Follow this practice with a warm, relaxing shower, leaving a coat of oil on the skin to absorb throughout the day. Some gentle yoga, and ten to fifteen minutes of meditation will further your sense of stability and wellness.

If you enjoy a little fragrance, vetiver, geranium, and citrus essential oils are very appropriate this time of year. When you step out into the elements, cover your head and ears to protect them from the biting wind and cold.

• Autumn Season Diet

Your diet is a powerful way to soothe the metal element this Autumn. In Traditional Chinese Medicine tradition, the flavour of Autumn is pungent and should be balanced with sour. This ensures the body's mucosa stays moist and warm—which prevents infection, without becoming too damp/cold—which causes congestion in the Lungs. Substantive, oily, nourishing foods that are high in protein, high in fat, brought to life with warming, stimulating spices, and served hot, will go a long way toward maintaining your internal reserves of moisture and keeping you grounded through the season. You’ll also want to favour the sweet, sour, and salty tastes. In general, eat mushy, soft foods and garnish them generously with ghee or oil. Breakfasts of cooked grains—like oatmeal, tapioca, cream of rice, are perfect at this time of year. Lunches and dinners that include steamed vegetables, hearty grains, soups, and stews are grounding and moisturising.
If you eat meat and eggs, this is one of the best times of year to enjoy them. Dairy products and most nuts and seeds are also beneficial. In general, you’ll want to reduce your consumption of raw vegetables, cold and frozen foods, as well as the bitter, pungent, and astringent tastes. It is best to minimise light, cooling, and drying foods like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, sprouts, leafy greens, white potatoes, beans, popcorn, crackers, millet, and dried fruit. If you do eat these foods, eat them in moderation and make sure that they are soaked, well cooked, or served with ghee.

You may find that, during the course of the Autumn, you’ll naturally want to increase your intake of food. This season requires adequate nourishment so it is best to avoid fasting.

HERE ARE 5 WAYS TO LET GO THIS AUTUMN:

1. Breathe—wind is a key element in Autumn. Therefore, take the time to focus your deep breathing techniques as you become aware of that which needs to be released. Big exhales.

2. Purge—this will be unique to each individual, but if nothing else take the time to purge your closets of unused clothing. Not only will it free up more space, but those clothes will be deeply appreciated by those who need them this winter.

3. Resolve old hurts—what pains or hurt feelings can you release this Autumn? These unresolved emotions can express themselves as grief and negative self-image, leading to imbalance and illness of the Lungs and Large Intestine. Take advantage of Autumn's energy to let old wounds heal. Forgiveness allows us to release what we are holding onto, whether forgiving others or forgiving ourselves.

4. Give—this goes hand-in-hand with purging and resolving old hurts. Give away what you no longer need, and give yourself the gift of release and freedom that comes from forgiveness of self and others.

5. Sleep—if you think about it, the act of sleep is the ultimate way of letting go. Thanks to a special type of lymphatic system in the brain called The Glympathic System, sleep facilitates the cleansing and organisation of your brain. To keep things simple, aim to go to bed an hour earlier (the kids too) or, if your schedule permits, wake up an hour later.

What Does Self-Care Really Mean?

• Why self-care so important?

Modern-day living has become a juggling act. When we have a lot of pressures, from workload to personal stresses, we mistake the feeling of being under stress for having energy. You run from early morning until late at night, turning yourself into an energiser bunny! In the microcosm of the world that is our body, it is not uncommon for us to exhaust our energetic and nutritional resources. Between holding down a job, maintaining relationships, and caring for a family, we can often negate the energy we earn from sleep, good food and good company. Our daily needs repeatedly outpace our daily intake of energy and the concept of a healthy lifestyle and self-care, or the meaning of, can go out the window. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been a lifestyle medicine for thousands of years. This means that it is composed of 80% lifestyle/self-care and 20% treatment. In this sense, lifestyle means the way you live every day, how you get up in the morning, what you eat and drink, how you move, what you think and believe in and much more. If there is illness, the illness is treated; if there is no illness, the body is strengthened. Prevention is therefore the main focus rather than waiting for dis-ease to occur. Health is not just the absence of disease, but a feeling of wholeness, resilience and vitality.  In Chinese medicine, self-care is called Yang Sheng which directly translates as ‘nourish life’. Yang Sheng is the self-care part of Chinese medicine which means your self-care practices give you an amazing self-healing system/toolbox, it serves as your daily health maintenance. There is an ancient Chinese proverb: ‘

a drop of prevention is better than a bucketload of cure’.

Nurturing our bodies and our health a little every day is key to a year-round health and well-being system.

• What does self-care really mean?

There is a misconception that self-care just means warm baths and massages. Self-care encompasses anything that you do for yourself to support your physical, emotional, and spiritual health and well-being, it acts as daily health maintenance. A western approach can often be focused on treating disease when it arises, but in China, the mentality is that if you fall sick it is a failure of your Yang Sheng, your daily health maintenance. Basically, your self-care practices should aim to rebalance and resolve all the little niggles that later on can become a health problem/disease. 

We can, at times, follow others’ lead in terms of their self-care rituals but meaningful self-care routines mean taking a moment and tuning into yourself and figuring out what serves you and your health the best, taking into account where your life is at that point. To a busy working mom having a coffee in a cafe by herself might mean self-care but for another, it might be attending her Monday night yoga class to start the week in the best way. 

We all have different needs so take a moment and figure out yours. This approach offers you your own timeless and evolving daily preventative health toolbox, it can be very empowering. Yang Sheng is a concept from ancient China from 5,000 years ago and remains just as relevant today - they really do have it all figured out. 

• How can you best incorporate self-care into your life?

Start small and work your way up. People who succeed have momentum. The more they succeed, the more they want to succeed, and the more they find a way to succeed. Similarly, when someone is failing, the tendency is to get on a downward spiral that can even become a self-fulfilling prophecy. 

Therefore we always invite our clients to choose 4 things (or even less) that they would like to incorporate into their life. It is not limited to 4 but it is important to keep it manageable and small, and build your way up. One self-care practice might simply be to get up 10 minutes earlier and do a 5-minute meditation or practice gratitude. Once these 4 things become part of your habit, lifestyle or mindset (like brushing your teeth, you wouldn’t dream of not brushing your teeth) - repeat this exercise again. This might be in a month or 6 months’ time. The important aspect is, that you are able to maintain these changes and set yourself up for continued success. 

A common trap we can fall into with a modern mindset of doing too much, when it comes to self-care less is more but practicing it mindfully and continuing is the key. 

• What are the positive impacts that these self-care steps can have on your life?

The positive impacts are endless, from your energy, sleep, digestion, hormonal health, emotional well-being and the list goes on. It can sometimes be hard to see the true benefit because you are preventing imbalances every day that would have happened if not for your self-care practices. For example, a simple 1-minute gua sha routine to release tension in the face and jaw can help to prevent headaches, migraines, dental issues and TMJ problems, etc. Like I said at the beginning it is so important for each individual to reflect and decide what self-care practices suit them best and their life, at that particular time. If someone is going through a really stressful time at work or in their personal life, a 5-minute meditation practice can help you manage your stress and in turn make better decisions, improve relationships. These knock-on effects are worth their weight in gold. Self-care can sometimes be viewed as ‘selfish’ but actually, the effect of you practicing good self-care practices ripples out to your family, children, colleagues - you can’t get more positive than that.