- Ben Heathcote
Clinic Newsletter, January 2024
Warm Greetings from Melbourne Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Clinic!
Happy New Year! As the calendar turns to January, we find ourselves in the heart of summer in the Southern hemisphere. It's a season of growth, vitality, and abundant sunshine, and we're excited to provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of it while staying aligned with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles.
Understanding Summer in TCM
Summer is associated with the Fire element in TCM. It's a time of flourishing Yang energy, warmth, and activity. This season encourages us to align with nature's rhythms, just as we do in our clinic by utilising TCM principles for your well-being.
Health Concern Spotlight: Beating the Summer Heat
While summer brings its joys, it can also present some challenges. High temperatures and prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to issues like heatstroke, dehydration, and skin problems. TCM offers valuable insights and remedies to keep you cool and comfortable. Our practitioners are here to help you with personalised solutions to beat the summer heat.
Recipe for Summer Wellness: TCM-Style Vegetable Stir-Fry
Light and Nourishing Vegetable Stir-Fry
Stay cool and balanced with this TCM-inspired summer stir-fry:
Ingredients:
An assortment of seasonal vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, carrots, and broccoli)
1-2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option
Ginger and garlic, minced
Light soy sauce or low-sodium chicken broth for flavor
A drizzle of sesame oil
Cooked brown rice
Instructions:
Slice the chicken into thin strips or prepare tofu as desired.
In a hot pan, add a small amount of sesame oil and stir-fry the chicken or tofu until cooked.
Remove the protein and set it aside.
In the same pan, add more sesame oil and stir-fry the seasonal vegetables along with ginger and garlic.
Once the vegetables are tender-crisp, add the cooked chicken or tofu back to the pan.
Add light soy sauce or low-sodium chicken broth for flavor and let it simmer briefly.
Serve over cooked brown rice if desired for a satisfying meal.
TCM Benefit: This stir-fry provides a balanced and nourishing option for the summer months. The choice of vegetables can be tailored to your preferences, and it's an excellent way to enjoy seasonal produce while maintaining balance in your body's internal climate.
TCM Herbal Tea: Nourishing Yin Tea
In TCM, summer can lead to excess heat, and it's crucial to nourish the Yin energy to maintain balance. One way to do this is through herbal tea. Try our Nourishing Yin Tea:
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons of chrysanthemum flowers
1 teaspoon of goji berries
1 teaspoon of dried hibiscus petals
1-2 cups of hot water
Instructions:
Place the chrysanthemum flowers, goji berries, and hibiscus petals in a cup.
Pour hot water over the herbs.
Let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
Sip and enjoy the cooling and hydrating effects of this Yin-nourishing herbal tea.
TCM Benefit: This herbal tea aids in balancing the body's internal climate, keeping you cool and nourished during the summer season.
Join Us on the Journey to Better Health
We're here to support your health journey throughout the dynamic summer season. Whether you're an existing patient or new to our clinic, we're committed to helping you achieve optimal health and balance through the wisdom of TCM.
Don't forget to 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 vibrant and harmonious January, filled with vitality and well-being!
Warm regards,
Ben Heathcote
Practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Melbourne Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture Clinic