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Ben Heathcote

Clinic Newsletter, August 2024

Greetings from Melbourne Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Clinic!


As August unfolds, we continue our journey through the heart of winter. In this edition of our newsletter, we immerse ourselves in the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), exploring the seasonal transition, introducing a TCM concept, addressing a significant health concern, and sharing a nourishing meal recipe and a comforting herbal tea. Each recipe spotlights a key ingredient with its associated organs and meridians, its influence on Qi, Blood, Yin, or Yang, and its warming or cooling properties.


Seasonal Change from a TCM Perspective

In the heart of winter, our focus remains on the Water element, closely linked with the Kidney and Bladder meridians. Nature's energy retreats, and our bodies crave warmth and nourishment. Nurturing our Kidney and Bladder meridians during this introspective season is paramount for maintaining our foundational energy and overall well-being.


TCM Concept Highlight: The Concept of Qi Gong

Qi Gong is a foundational practice in TCM, focusing on the cultivation and balance of Qi (vital energy). It includes various exercises, meditation, and breathwork to enhance the flow of Qi throughout the body. Regular Qi Gong practice can promote vitality, balance, and overall well-being, making it an ideal complement to the winter season.


Health Concern Spotlight: Immune Support

As winter deepens, bolstering the immune system becomes a top priority. The colder temperatures and seasonal changes can affect our body's defense mechanisms. In TCM, the Lung meridian plays a crucial role in immune support. Imbalances in the Lung meridian may manifest as symptoms such as susceptibility to colds and respiratory issues.

TCM therapies, including acupuncture and specific herbal remedies, aim to enhance immune function by supporting the Lung meridian. By promoting a strong immune response, TCM may assist in keeping common seasonal ailments at bay.


Recipe for Seasonal Wellness: TCM Heart-Nourishing Chicken Soup

Heart-Nourishing Chicken Soup

This comforting chicken soup features chicken as the key ingredient, with insights into its associated organs and meridians and its effects on Qi, Blood, Yin, and warming properties:

Ingredients:

  • 500g of chicken thighs, bone-in

  • 2-3 slices of dried tangerine peel

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced

  • A drizzle of sesame oil

  • 1 litre of chicken broth

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Key Ingredient Focus: Chicken

Chicken resonates with the Spleen and Stomach meridians in TCM. It is considered warming, making it an ideal choice for winter consumption. Chicken is known for its ability to strengthen the Spleen, improve digestion, and support the body's Qi and Blood. It is also beneficial in dispelling coldness from the body, making it a valuable addition to winter dishes.


Herbal Tea Recipe: TCM Lung-Supporting Liquorice Tea

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 slices of liquorice root

  • 1-2 cups of hot water

TCM Benefit: Liquorice root targets the Lung meridian, known for its potential to soothe coughs, alleviate sore throats, and support healthy respiratory function. It helps to balance the body's Qi and maintain lung health during the winter season.


Join Us on the Journey to Better Health

As we enter winter, we're here to support your health journey during this introspective season. Whether you're a returning patient or new to our clinic, we're committed to helping you achieve optimal health through the wisdom of TCM.


Explore our website for more information, resources, and to schedule your next appointment. We're here to address your questions and discuss your health concerns.

Wishing you a harmonious and immune-empowered August, filled with vitality and well-being!


Warm regards,


Ben Heathcote

Practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Melbourne Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Clinic


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