What can Chinese herbs do for you?
Chinese herbs are well known for their effectiveness in prevention and curing. Herbal decoctions are frequently used to strengthen the immune system naturally and cure with minor side effects. There are more than 1000 herbs commonly used in TCM and each individual combination has its own characteristics and effects. As everyone’s constitution and symptoms are unique, herbal decoctions are always custom made in order to fully treat the patient’s condition and...
All Your Acupuncture Questions Answered
In our TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) series, we share insight into the major TCM treatments and answer frequently asked questions. Acupuncture is a popular TCM method to cure disease and restore balance. People often wonder “Will getting stuck with needles really make me healthier?” Here is everything you want to know about acupuncture. TCM Philosophy TCM believes a healthy body and mind is achieved through a free flow of vital energy (Qi)...
Spring Renewal: Nine Habits for a Happy, Healthy Life
We’re all made of energy. We now know it only takes 12 seconds to invite something into our energy at the vibrational level. What does this mean? It means you have the power to change your life. Here are some tips for creating positive energy: 1. Be aware of the quality of your thoughts and ideas. Reality is neutral; the way you interpret it is not. 2. Be grateful. Smile, say thank...
Breathe Freely: Natural Allergy Solutions
Are red, watery eyes and a swollen nose your trademark spring look? Many allergy sufferers dread the coming spring. Life becomes round after round of antihistamines and nasal sprays. Shanghai’s damp, dusty (and polluted) environment is a nightmare for many allergy and asthma sufferers. Ancient Chinese Wisdom: The Root Causes of Allergies TCM interprets allergies as a disharmony in the body. It is often diagnosed as a “wind” influence accompanied by another...
Triple Hormone Hell: Fatigue, Insomnia, and Depression
Too many women suffer like I did from what we can call “triple hormone hell”. It’s a nightmare combination of symptoms that includes chronic fatigue, insomnia and moodiness (particularly depression). I was trying to get through my day with 1-2 hours of sleep at a time and overwhelming fatigue and feelings of despair. I had gained a significant amount of weight and my limbs felt heavy and my breathing constricted. I...
Women’s Day Healing Circle: Reconnect with Your Joy and Sensuality
Pursuing its mission to heal patients as a whole, Body & Soul is happy to introduce a new series of healing workshops including Women’s Sharing Circles led by Bibiana Rueda-Bueno, Holistic Psychologist. These workshops aim at soothing the mind, balancing emotions and harmonizing energy. Attendees become more aware and relaxed. It provides them with tools to deal with daily situations and emotions. Women’s Day Event On the occasion of Women’s Day on the...
TCM Focus: Tuina Massage
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) differs from western medicine in a number of ways. These include how a diagnosis is made, as well as the curative methods employed. Our TCM series serves to introduce the various methods and their underlying mechanisms. Tuina massage is the name for the massage therapy used in TCM. History of Tuina Tuina is not as well-known worldwide as acupuncture and other TCM treatments; however, its history is just...
Dr. Rathgeber’s Prescription for Achieving Your Dreams in China
Body & Soul’s founder, Doris Rathgeber, shares how life’s twists and turns led to achieving her dreams in China. She offers advice for how expats can thrive in Shanghai. Life’s Many Twists and Turns “Everything I have is from China. China helped me overcome my past and find the opportunity to achieve my dream.” Growing up in Germany, Doris always hoped to be a doctor. But, there was “no more room for dreams”...
How to Stay Healthy This Winter with TCM
TCM Focus: Maintain a healthy lifestyle and discover a delicious 5 Element warming recipe! In wintertime the traditional Chinese Yin-Yang cycle reaches its Yin peak. It is the season of rest and passivity, during which nature reduces its activities. In TCM, winter is related to the water element and associated with the kidney and bladder. Our essential energy, Qi, needs special care and nourishment during cold, damp winter weather. Different areas of...
Winter Blues: Stuck in the post-holiday doldrums?
After all the holiday celebrations, Christmas family visits, and Spring Festival travel, you may feel a bit down returning to your routine in Shanghai. The winter weather doesn’t help. Many people feel more lethargic and moody during the cold, dreary weather. Some people face more serious seasonal depression. What can you do to deal with winter blues? • If you are feeling sad or grieving, take time to legitimize your pain...