The Benefits of Red Light Therapy for Skin, Sleep and Mood Red light therapy has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly through discussions by Andrew Huberman on the Huberman Lab podcast. Backed by emerging research, this form of LED light therapy offers measurable benefits for skin health, sleep regulation, and brain function. What is […]

Overdue Baby – What Do I Do? A Gentle Guide (and How Acupuncture Can Help) Reaching your due date without going into labour can feel frustrating, confusing, and sometimes even a little worrying. You may be wondering if something is wrong—or if your baby is “late.” The reassuring truth? In most cases, nothing is wrong […]

Reaching your due date without going into labour can feel confusing—especially when you’ve been counting down for weeks. It’s completely natural to wonder if something is wrong or if your baby is “late.” The reassuring news is that in most cases, an overdue baby is simply part of the normal range of pregnancy. Due Dates […]

The Aim and Benefits of Cosmetic Acupuncture for Fine Lines and Wrinkles Did you know there's a degree-qualified acupuncturist in Brookvale on Sydney's Northern Beaches that offers Cosmetic Acupuncture? Our practitioner, Katika has completed three additional courses in facial acupuncture along with her 22 years of clinical experience. Cosmetic acupuncture is a facial treatment that […]

What is a Japanese Facial Spa? A Japanese facial spa is a specialised skin treatment that focuses on deep cleansing, gentle exfoliation, facial massage, and hydration. It is designed to improve skin texture, circulation, and relaxation through a sequence of hands-on techniques and topical products. What to Expect in a Japanese Facial Spa A typical […]

The Busy Northern Beaches Lifestyle For many mums, life is a constant juggle of school drop-offs, work commitments, family responsibilities, and trying to find a moment for themselves. With long days spent outdoors in the sun, exposure to salt air, and limited time for consistent self-care, it’s common for skin to reflect fatigue, dehydration, and […]

Two Clients Messaged Me This Week to Say They're Pregnant. Here's What They Did to Get There. There are some messages that never lose their magic. This week, two clients reached out to share the wonderful news that they're pregnant. Although their paths to pregnancy were very different, both women had one thing in common—they […]

My Period Cramps Are So Bad: Why They Happen and How TCM Might Help Many women experience painful period cramps, or dysmenorrhea, that can interfere with daily life. Understanding why they happen and how to support your body can make a real difference. Why Period Cramps Happen: A Medical Perspective Period cramps occur when the […]

Fertility is influenced by a complex interplay of hormones, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Increasingly, research highlights that toxin exposure—whether from everyday products, the environment, or the workplace—can interfere with reproductive health for both men and women. Understanding these risks and taking practical steps to reduce exposure can make a meaningful difference when trying to […]

"My Period Won’t Stop and It’s Light..." Some women experience periods that never seem to fully start or stop, or bleeding that is very light but continues for days or weeks. While this may seem minor compared with heavy periods, ongoing light bleeding or spotting can be tiring, disruptive, and worrying. Irregular bleeding, whether light […]

My Period Won’t Stop and It’s Heavy If your period feels unusually heavy, lasts much longer than it used to, or arrives too frequently, it can be worrying and disruptive. This pattern is common during perimenopause, but it can occur at any age. Ongoing heavy bleeding should always be assessed by your GP or gynaecologist […]

The Role of Ubiquinol on Female + Male Fertility WORDS: Alyce Cimino | Lead Naturopath from AHARA Health Did you know that both sperm and egg cells develop over roughly three months before fertilisation? This means that the eggs and sperm you have today are actually influenced from 3 months ago! For this reason, this […]

Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Fibromyalgia (FM) both cause pain and stiffness, but they are very different conditions and require different approaches to care. Lets take a closer look at Polymyalgia pain and its associated symptoms. What is Polymyalgia Rheumatica? (PMR) Polymyalgia is an inflammatory condition that affects tissues around the joints. Usually affects adults over 50 […]

In Chinese Herbal Medicine, fatigue isn’t treated as a single condition. Instead, it’s understood by pattern differentiation—looking at which systems are under strain and why the tiredness developed. The most common patterns behind tiredness involve the Kidneys, Spleen and Stomach or Liver. Each presents differently and requires a different herbal approach. A Kidney Pattern: Deep […]

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome vs Fibromyalgia: What’s the Difference? Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), also known as ME/CFS, and Fibromyalgia (FM) are often discussed together because they share overlapping symptoms. Both conditions can be exhausting, frustrating, and difficult to explain. However, they are not the same condition, and understanding the differences can help guide more appropriate care […]

Let's take a look at some of the mechanisms of Acupuncture that may help Fibromyalgia (FM). A chronic condition marked by widespread pain, muscle stiffness, fatigue and sleep challenges, it deeply affects daily function and quality of life. Fibromyalgia is NOT INFLAMMATORY nor an autoimmune disease. This means it doesn't cause inflammation, swelling, or damage […]

In Classical Chinese Medicine, treating sinus and chest congestion depends on the underlying pattern, whether due to wind-cold, wind-heat, damp-phlegm, or chronic deficiency. Here are my top four formulas used to address different types of congestion: 1. Xin Yi San – Magnolia Flower Powder Best for: Sinus congestion due to wind-coldSymptoms: Stuffy nose, frontal headaches, […]

In our Brookvale Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinic, our dietary therapy advice focuses on strengthening the Spleen Qi.  The Spleen in TCM is responsible for transforming food into energy and nourishing the body. The Spleen thrives on warm, cooked, and easily digestible foods, and it prefers regular meals over cold or raw foods that can […]

Chinese Herbs for Lungs: A Supportive TCM Approach in Brookvale If you’re looking for a Chinese herbalist in Brookvale, you may be after a natural approach to supporting your immune system, recovering from a cough, or additional support for mild asthma. After appropriate medical care and discussing your condition with your GP, Chinese herbal medicine […]

Katika and her Spring Fertility Women's Health clinic is pleased to announce the reopening of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine appointments at Terrey Hills Family Surgery. New evening appointments are now available: Thursday evenings: 4pm–8pm Friday evenings: 4pm–8pm Patients in Terrey Hills, Duffys Forest, Belrose and surrounding Northern Beaches suburbs can again access Acupuncture, cupping therapy […]

How to Rebuild Your Qi and Immune System - The Chinese Medicine way After an illness, the body’s Qi (vital energy) can be weakened, leaving you feeling fatigued, run down and sluggish. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) focuses on replenishing Qi, strengthening the Lungs, Spleen and Stomach to reinforce the immune system. This is done through […]

Acupuncture and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know Breastfeeding can be a joyful but sometimes challenging experience, and many women wonder whether acupuncture is safe and helpful during this time. The short answer is: yes — acupuncture is generally considered safe while breastfeeding when practiced by a fully qualified and AHPRA registered acupuncturist. Is Acupuncture […]

Confinement in Chinese culture: "The Sitting Month" Postnatal confinement, deeply rooted in Chinese culture, is a time-honoured practice designed to support the physical and emotional recovery of new mothers after childbirth. This period, lasting approximately 30 to 40 days, emphasises rest, nourishment, and family support. While the cultural context may differ, the underlying principles of […]

We continue the conversation with Dr Vanessa Fisher, Osteopath about Tongue Tie. Vanessa has experience helping babies and parents assess and advise the next steps in treatment or recovery. She has years of experience as an Osteopath, in this area. Who in Australia can diagnose tongue tie? The following professionals are commonly involved in diagnosing […]

Tongue Tie Explained: Signs, Diagnosis & Support for Babies and Children by Dr Vanessa Fisher, Osteopath (The Willow Clinic) What Is Tongue Tie? Tongue tie is a condition present at birth where the lingual frenulum is shorter, thicker or tighter than usual. This the tissue connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of […]

April is Adenomyosis Awareness month and we wanted to highlight this lesser-known gynaecological condition Adenomyosis is where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus (the myometrium). Different to Endometriosis, where the uterine lining tissue may migrate outside the uterus and create lesions or adhesions to other structures inside […]

Wen Jing Tang and “Cold in the Uterus”: A Chinese Medicine Perspective In Traditional Chinese Medicine, gynaecological symptoms are understood through patterns rather than diagnoses alone. One such pattern is “Cold in the uterus,” which describes reduced warmth and circulation in the lower abdomen. This pattern has long been associated with menstrual irregularity, pelvic pain, […]

Endometriosis and Acupuncture: What Does the Research Tell Us? Endometriosis is a complex, inflammatory condition that affects many women, often presenting with pelvic pain, painful periods, digestive symptoms, fatigue, and emotional strain. While there is currently no cure, many women look for supportive therapies alongside medical care to help manage symptoms and improve daily function. […]

The Challenges of Endometriosis and Fertility Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often causing pelvic pain, heavy periods, fatigue, and difficulty conceiving. In Australia, it is estimated that 1 in 7 women and people assigned female at birth will be affected by endometriosis by […]

Beetroot Juice and Embryo Transfer in IVF – What does the Research Say? Is there evidence behind it? There is some preliminary research suggesting beetroot juice — especially when combined with other juices like watermelon and ginger — may have a positive association with IVF outcomes, but the evidence is still limited and not yet […]

How LED Light Therapy and Facial Acupuncture Work Together for Skin Health If you’re looking for a gentle, non-invasive way to support your skin, you may have come across LED light therapy. When combined with facial acupuncture (also known as cosmetic acupuncture) at our clinics on Sydney's Northern Beaches, this modern treatment approach can support […]

Menopause and Hair Loss: Can Chinese Herbal Medicine Help? Hair loss during menopause can be one of the more unexpected and emotionally challenging changes women face. As oestrogen levels decline, many women notice their hair becoming thinner, falling out more easily, and growing back more slowly. While this can feel distressing, there are supportive and […]

Perimenopause and Dizziness: How Chinese Medicine Can Help You Find Balance Perimenopause is a natural phase of life, but for many women, it comes with unexpected symptoms—one of which is dizziness. Feeling lightheaded, unsteady, or as if the room is spinning can be both unsettling and disruptive. Why Does Dizziness Occur in Perimenopause? From a […]

Frozen shoulder and Menopause: Is there a link? Also known as adhesive capsulitis, frozen shoulder is a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and a significant reduction in shoulder range of movement. Noticing changes during Menopause This has led many to ask, “Why has my shoulder pain become worse since entering perimenopause?” or “Is there a […]

Acupuncture and Menopause: A Natural way to Symptom Relief While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a well-established option for many women, an increasing number are seeking natural, supportive therapies to ease symptoms and encourage a smoother transition. Acupuncture is one such option with growing clinical research supporting its benefits for menopausal women. The overall summary […]

Late Summer in Australia starts in February and represents the waning of the intense Summer Heat. Leading into Autumn, it's a good time to start building the Spleen and Stomach Qi with nourishing soups, stews and slow cooked meals. Carrot, Sweet Potato & Lentil Stew with Turmeric Ingredients 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 medium onion, […]

Evidence Based Acupuncture: A Clear Look at What the Research Shows Acupuncture has a long history as a traditional healing practice, but what does modern science say about how well it works? According to Evidence Based Acupuncture, a global resource summarising thousands of studies and systematic reviews, there is now a substantial and growing body […]

Natural Hydration Skin Tips for the harsh Australian Summer Summer in Australia is famous for being unforgiving. High UV levels, intense heat, and dry winds can take a toll on your skin—leading to dehydration, irritation and skin sensitivity. While CHOICE approved sunscreen and shade are essential, there are also simple, effective ways to hydrate, protect […]

What is Late Summer? In TCM the “five seasons” include not only Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter, but also a transitional season often called Late Summer (sometimes “Long Summer” or cháng xià 長夏). For Australians, Late Summer corresponds approximately to February and March (or in the Southern Hemisphere between late January and early March) when the […]

Managing Anxiety Leading up to Christmas : Understanding Stress, Grief and Family Pressures at This Time of Year The lead-up to Christmas can be a joyful season for many — but for others, it’s a time that magnifies stress, grief, and anxiety. Whether you’re a parent juggling school holidays and gift lists, a carer supporting […]

The Science behind Healthy Digestion Our gut and brain have similar nervous system tissue and mirror each other. Evidence for the brain-gut connection includes interchangeable communication through nerves, hormones and immune pathways. Healthy Digestion at Christmas: A TCM Perspective The Christmas season is a time for celebration, family, and of course, indulgent meals. But between […]

Healthy Eating, Summer Body & Weight Loss Summer calls for “beach-ready” energy, and healthy eating often takes centre stage. But for many people, the weight loss journey is frustrating. You may be asking: can acupuncture really help with weight loss? What the research shows There is some evidence that acupuncture in combination with diet and […]

Men generally approach infertility very differently. They might be reluctant to go to a doctor to get bloodwork, a check up or even want to know if the fertility issues start with them. On the flipside, those males that do go and get sperm analysis or bloodwork with "nothing abnormal" in their results, are very […]

Chinese Medicine and Sperm health - it can be a tricky conversation with a partner or to face on your own. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), particularly Chinese herbal medicine, has been used for centuries to address male fertility issues. This includes low sperm count, poor sperm quality, abnormal morphology, and reduced motility. Recent scientific studies […]

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) takes a holistic strategy with male infertility. It views issues like low sperm count, poor morphology, motility, and quality as signs of underlying imbalances in the body. Instead of focusing only on sperm parameters, TCM seeks to restore overall vitality and build reproductive health. TCM and Male Fertility Issues In TCM, […]

  Chinese herbs can be part of a broader plan to support postpartum recovery, including managing issues related to breast milk production and breast health. Let's explore ways Chinese herbs may help with postpartum recovery around breast milk, along with important considerations and precautions: Chinese Herbal Medicine for Postpartum Breast Health: Fenugreek (Hu Lu Ba): […]

Postpartum hair loss, also known as postpartum alopecia, is a common occurrence experienced by many women in the months following childbirth. It shows as excessive shedding and thinning of hair but can be distressing for new mothers. While it is a natural part of the postpartum process, acupuncture has emerged as a promising therapy for […]

Yes, Dads can experience post natal depression! (PND) It affects approximately 1 in 10 men during the perinatal period, which includes pregnancy and the first year after a baby is born. Factors such as changes in identity, increased responsibility, lack of sleep, financial stress, and feelings of isolation can contribute to PND in fathers. Men […]

TCM and Pregnancy: A gentle and whole body approach during one of the most important times in your life.  Pregnancy is a transformative journey marked by profound physical, emotional, and hormonal changes. In this article, we'll explore how to use acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and TCM to your benefit, during Pregnancy. It is essential to […]

Pregnancy Migraines: What treatment can help? What about Acupuncture? Migraines during pregnancy can be particularly frustrating. You’re already navigating hormonal changes, disrupted sleep, and physical shifts—adding persistent headache pain into the mix can feel overwhelming. For many women, the usual go-to solutions like pain medications or even herbal remedies may be off the table due […]

Navigating Sciatica Pain During Pregnancy: Gentle Support for Relief Pregnancy is an extraordinary journey, filled with joy, anticipation, and change. But along with the excitement, many women experience physical discomforts—sciatica being one of the most common. Sciatica refers to pain that radiates along the sciatic nerve, starting from the lower back and running through the […]

Facial Acupuncture: Natural Rejuvenation for Women in Their 30s and 40s As women move through their 30s and 40s, life can feel full and busy—often balancing work, family, and personal wellbeing. This is also the time when subtle changes in the skin begin to appear. Fine lines, changes in skin tone, and tension held in […]

I wanted to recap after this Sunday just gone our Yoga and Acupuncture Mini Retreat. In the tranquil surroundings of Mona Vale Surf Life Saving Club, we came together for a restorative Yin yoga and Acupuncture thoughtfully designed to nourish both body and spirit through the lens of winter’s Water element. In TCM, the Kidney and […]

Here’s a nourishing and simple recipe for a Korean style Ginseng Chicken Soup (Samgyetang)—a traditional dish enjoyed especially during the hot "San Fu" days in Korea to restore energy, boost immunity, and balance the body from the inside out. Using food like this is part of Yang Sheng - Nourishing traditions for diet and lifestyle […]

How do I do Self Care? 5 Health Habits that are Making Women Happier in themselves and more confident. 1. Offloading Worries - Sitting in a Women's Circle or Social support Incorporating self-care practices into daily life is crucial for nurturing a positive relationship with oneself and promoting emotional well-being. Self-care can take many forms, […]

Supporting Tween skin care and Hormonal Health with Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Navigating the tween years can be challenging—especially as skin issues like acne, oiliness, or sensitivity start to emerge. At this stage of development, hormonal fluctuations are common and can impact both mood and skin health. TCM offers gentle, natural ways to support tweens […]

Understanding Moxa Season: An opportunity to help your body adjust to seasonal change In Chinese Medicine, the transitions between the seasons are vulnerable moments for our health—and among them, two in particular mark what's known as "Moxa Season." This is a special window of time when the body is especially receptive to the deep, warming, […]

Chai Dandy Tea with Ginger Ingredients: 1 cup dandelion root tea (brewed from roasted dandelion root) ½ tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp ground cardamom ¼ tsp ground cloves ¼ tsp ground nutmeg 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced or grated 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based) 1 tsp honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness) […]

The Role of Yang and Kidney in Fertility According to TCM When it comes to fertility, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) places great emphasis on balancing Yin and Yang energies, with Kidney Yang playing a crucial role. This warm, active energy fuels the body’s reproductive functions, ensuring a healthy environment for conception. Let’s explore why Kidney […]

Last Sunday, we gathered at Bump studio in Dee Why for The Fertility Reset Retreat. It was a day dedicated to nurturing the body, calming the mind, and resetting the nervous system for women on their fertility journey. The retreat was designed to bring together ancient and modern therapies to create a deeply restorative experience. […]