Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

We would like to wish all of our clients, facebook & twitter followers & friends a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.  Thank you for all of your support during the year. Here are some simple yet effective tips to help you ring in the New Year in good health!

Many people just love the winter months, the dark cosy evenings by the fire and the fresh crisp air outside but for some people the lack of light can really affect the mood so here are our top tips to help you enjoy your Christmas by keeping your mind, body & spirit nourished!

Rest – realise that winter is the time of year to slow things down a little, it  can be a time for reflection and meditation.  Meditation can be a great source of comfort at this time of the year and can help bring clarity to your mind.

Nourish yourself – the body needs extra warmth and nourishment in the winter months so eat lots of warming foods such as soup, stews and casseroles.  These foods will help build up your energy levels.  It is important to limit cold foods during this time of year as according to Chinese medicine cold foods in winter can be too cooling on the body and can be harsh on your digestive system.

Supplement – boost your immune system to help prevent colds & flus.  Check in with your local health shop, naturopath or herbalist for advice on a supplement to suit you.

Winter & Chinese Medicine-according to Chinese medicine winter is associated with the water element and the kidneys.  The kidneys are considered to be the source of all energy/qi within the body.  There is an important acupuncture kidney point on the sole of the foot called kidney 1.  A warm foot bath in the evening can really help to warm the kidneys through this channel.  Make sure not to walk around in the winter too much on cold floors and tiles as this can weaken your kidney energy.

Laugh – laughter is great medicine at any time of the year so have fun and laugh alot with family and friends.

In keeping with the festive season here is a great recipe for Hot Apple Cider (Non Alcoholic)

Ingredients (serves 6)

• 6 cups good quality apple juice
• 2-3 Tbsp maple syrup
• Half a cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• Zest of one orange, cut into strips
• 3 cinnamon sticks
• 4 whole cloves
• Piece of cheesecloth and some kitchen twine

Preparation

1. Add all ingredients to a medium pot
2. Tie the cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange zest into a bundle using a square of cheese cloth and kitchen twine. Add the bundle to the apple cider mixture.
3. Bring the cider to a simmer over a medium heat for about 5 to 10 minutes

Remove the spice bundle from the pot, and serve immediately.

Have a lovely Christmas everyone and see you in the New Year!