The Benefits of Functional Medicine
Picture this: You're hanging out with your loved ones, having a good time, when suddenly the conversation shifts to health issues. Maybe Aunt Jane mentions her asthma, and before you know it, everyone's sharing stories about their medical conditions. Have you ever noticed how even though you and Aunt Jane both have asthma, your own experiences with it are totally different? That's because when it comes to health problems, there's no...
Your Defenses and You
We typically use “defensive” in colloquial speech to label certain sets of behaviors that get stirred up in other people, but we all use defenses unconsciously to ward off anxiety-provoking feelings that get stirred up in different contexts. It can be very difficult for an individual to see how their own defenses operate, but this is paramount in self-understanding and emotional liberation. The Defense of Self Neglect and IgnoringPatient: (sighs and...
Understanding PCOS and the Healing Power of TCM
What is PCOS?Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the irregular appearance of multiple water-filled blisters in the ovaries and affects 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. It has been discovered in 1937 and is largely driven by an imbalance in reproductive hormones and endocrine metabolism disorders. One of the key factors is the elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), which can disrupt the regular menstrual cycle. This hormonal imbalance doesn't just interfere with the menstrual period, it also brings a range of...
To the fore
Spring whispers silently! Now it’s in the best season in Shanghai again! Recently, we saw more and more people start running on the street, and at the same time, many Marathon events are open for registration. After the Chinese New Year holidays, lots of people can’t wait to restart their exercises. Running can be an excellent exercise for general population in all age group. So, before you start, we would...
Nourishing in Late Autumn: 10 Common and Gentle Ingredients
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn corresponds to the element of Metal, the Lung organ, and the color white. The Metal element is associated with strength, coolness, and the cold, drying nature of autumn. Therefore, in autumn dietary therapy, foods should be mildly pungent, slightly sour, and help nourish Yin while moistening dryness. Here are ten vegetarian ingredients that are suitable for this season, offering gentle, balanced nourishment. 1. Lily Bulb Nature: Slightly...
Back to Shanghai: Transitional Anxiety Tips!
Returning to Shanghai after a summer break can be a challenging experience for many expatriates. The transition from a relaxed vacation atmosphere back to the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of Shanghai often brings with it a unique set of emotional and psychological challenges, including transition anxiety. There are many effective ways to help deal with transition anxiety, the most effective being having appropriate support during the transition at hand. Transitional Anxiety and...
How Osteopathy Alleviates Discomfort Induced by Extended Travel
During the summer, many people take vacations to travel long distances, often spending hours sitting in airplanes, trains or cars. This prolonged immobility can cause various musculoskeletal problems, such as back, neck and leg pain. In this article, we will explore how osteopathy can offer effective solutions to relieve these pains and improve well-being during, before and after travel. The problem: pain and stiffness from long travels Back Pain: Spending long hours sitting can...
Celebrating 20 Years of Body & Soul Medical Clinics
As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Body & Soul Medical Clinics, it is an opportune moment to reflect on our journey filled with both challenges and achievements. This milestone allows us to set our sight on future aspirations. Below are some insights from our founder - Doris Rathgeber, doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine, as she shares her thoughts on the clinic's greatest successes, challenges, unique aspects, and future vision. 1. What do you consider the greatest...
BRUXISM, HEADACHE & CERVICAL PAIN: Discovering the Hidden Connections
Can headaches be caused by the temporomandibular joint and cervical spine? Approximately 30% of global adult headaches are a result of cervical tension, stress, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) imbalance. This challenges the common misconception that the location of pain indicates the true source of the problem. TMJ, which is often associated with bruxism and affects 8% of the population, is intertwined with headaches due to functional disturbances that lead to involuntary...
The Impostor’s Shadow: Stepping into the Light of Your Authentic Self
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] IntroductionImposter syndrome, while not officially recognized as a mental disorder, can greatly affect overall well-being. In the work arena, it's common to feel hesitant about expressing your thoughts and lacking the self-assurance needed to advance in your career. When it comes to relationships, feeling vulnerable is a common experience. It can be stressful to constantly worry that you're not good enough and that everything will fall apart once your partner...