Tag Archives: Chinese Medicine Dietary Therapy

CHINESE MEDICINE SPRING TIME TIPS

It’s Spring! Hence the staged photo of me next to a rosemary bush!
This is the season of green sprouting things and increased energy both in the environment and also within us.

In Chinese Medicine, Spring is the time to start focusing on the Liver. As we come out of the cooler months there can be some feelings of sluggishness. This combined with temperature changes and wind stirring, can lead to symptoms, that in TCM, we may attribute to the Liver needing some extra TLC.

Symptoms may include allergies, itchy skin, red eyes, headaches (especially around the temples, eyes and top of the head), hormonal fluctuations, bloating and feelings of irritability. There may also be tightness in the thoracic region and around the rib cage.

When it comes to the Liver, harsh detoxes aren’t really the Chinese Medicine approach. The focus is more on supporting and harmonising the Liver energy. There are many ways we can give a little extra love to the Liver coming into the Spring. These include dietary changes, exercise and other lifestyle factors.

See below for some general guidelines. However if you are experiencing some particular health care concern – please consult with your health care practitioner.

Chinese Medicine has many different approaches depending on an individual’s symptoms and health history. So, reach out if you need support x

DIET- INCLUDE:
🥦 Cruciferous vegetables – such as cauli, broccoli, brussels and kale
Dark leafy greens, radicchio, fennel, beetroot, carrot.
🍋 Lemons and limes
🌱 Fresh herbs such as rosemary, coriander, mint and thyme.

❌ DIET- LIMIT
Fried foods, fatty/ processed and smoked meats, high fructose foods and trans fats.

LIFESTYLE ☀️
🏌️‍♂️Stretch out the sides of the body – side bends and yoga poses that stretch through the rib-cage are all helpful.
– Practice some deep breathing – pushing the air right down into your belly on the inhale
💃 Move the body to get rid of pent up frustration – whether that’s swimming, dancing, running, long walks in nature or gardening – find the things that make you happy x


#acupuncturist #traditionalchinesemedicine #chinesemedicine #spring #rosemary #naturalhealth

AUTUMN AND PUMPKINS!

A lovely client gave me this pumpkin from her garden the other day. I thought it was a perfect image for an Autumn post and a chance to share some Chinese Medicine tips for the change of season 🍁

Whilst many of us are still steadfastly holding on to the Summer feels (👋), there has been a definable shift in the seasons here in Melbourne over the past week. The morning air is crisper and the pink and orange sunrises even look Autumnal!

Thankfully there is still some warm weather to come. However, it is important in Chinese Medicine terms, to start changing up our diets in preparation for the cooler months ahead.

Chinese Medicine tips for Autumn:

In Chinese Medicine, Autumn is the season to focus on the Lungs and Large Intestine. With this in mind, some foods to help benefit these organs can be helpful during this season.

For many people, including myself – immunity has taken some battering over the past three years. At change of season, this can increase susceptibility to many health conditions. These may include respiratory issues, allergies, skin conditions and digestive problems.

Warming, nourishing foods can be beneficial at this time to build energy levels as they are easy on the digestive system, allowing better absorption of nutrients.

Seasonal produce such as root vegetables, pumpkin and pears all have a moistening effect which can counteract the dryness of Autumn. And if the random humidity has left you feeling sluggish or you have some residual phlegm – adding pungent foods in to help balance your digestive system and open the airways can be helpful. Look at fennel, kohlrabi, radicchio, bitter greens, peppermint and rosemary.

Miso Pumpkin

Of course, when it comes to immunity, soaking up some sunshine where possible and eating foods naturally high in zinc -such as pumpkin seeds, almonds, oats and oysters – are a good idea too ❤️

For a yummy and easy to prepare Miso Pumpkin dish, please click on this link to view the recipe on my site.

Now, I’m going to take this pumpkin and make a big batch of pumpkin soup for the freezer!

Elisabeth x

#acupuncture #acupuncturist #traditionalchinesemedicine #chinesemedicine #pumpkin #seasonal #naturalhealing #holistichealth

DIETARY THERAPY IN TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE – NOURISHING LIFE

ROASTED VEGETABLES WITH HONEYED WALNUTS

Dietary therapy is an important aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It forms a part of self care practices known as Yang Sheng, a term that means to ‘nourish life’.

Yang Sheng involves paying attention to and making the necessary adjustments to diet, exercise, mindfulness and rest, to best support our health.

These needs will differ from person to person, based on constitution, individual health concerns, as well as seasonal and environmental influences.

In times of challenge and change, it is important to take some time to re-evaluate your diet and lifestyle. Making small adjustments and putting some nourishing routines in place can help you to feel balanced and energised.

Dietary recommendations form part of a TCM consultation and treatment plan. In Chinese Medicine, food is looked at not just for its nutritional value, but other characteristics as well. These include both the nature and flavor of foods – such as bitter, pungent, sweet, warming and cooling. Cooking methods, when we eat and how we eat, can also affect our assimilation and digestion of food.

Eating seasonal and whole foods where-ever possible is ideal. However, depending on an individual’s constitution, the strength of their digestive system and particular health care needs, specific foods may be more suitable at different times.

During a TCM consultation for Acupuncture and/or Herbs, Yang Sheng recommendations are given as home care. Implementing some new self care strategies, over time can effect positive change.