Author: Ya Zhu Gabriel

Nourishing Through the Seasons: A Five Elements Approach to Food and Diet

In our last post, we explored how aligning your daily habits with the Five Elements can support harmony in your body and mind. Now, let’s take it one step further — into your kitchen with insights from a Chinese medicine diet. In Chinese medicine, food is medicine. What you eat, how you prepare it, and […]

Living in Harmony with the Five Elements: Daily Habits

We’ve talked about the Five Elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—they are not just abstract ideas, but as a living system that explains how energy flows through our bodies, nature, and daily life. One of the most potent ways to support your health is by living in alignment with the Generating Cycle (also called the […]

Water Element in Chinese Medicine: Balance, Renewal, and Spring Vitality

As we move from winter into spring, the Water Element in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) plays a crucial role in ensuring a smooth seasonal transition. The Water Element governs the kidneys and bladder, influencing our energy reserves, emotional balance, and overall resilience. Supporting kidney health and energy balance is essential to maintain harmony as the […]

Lung and Large Intestine Health: Understanding the Metal Element in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the body’s health is influenced by the balance of five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. The Metal element, associated with the Lungs and Large Intestine, plays a vital role in respiration, immunity, and elimination processes. A harmonious Metal element contributes to robust lung and large intestine health, while […]

Understanding the Earth Element and Digestion in Chinese Medicine

In Chinese medicine, it is believed that the entire universe is made up of five elements. Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water — the five elements in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) each correspond to different organs, emotions, and health functions. Today, we’ll focus on the Earth element, which plays a vital role in digestion, energy, […]

Spring Health: 5 Things to Avoid for Better Well-Being

Spring Health Tips for a Balanced Body In Chinese Medicine, each season brings unique changes that affect the body’s energy flow. As spring begins, the body’s Yang energy starts to rise, just like plants sprouting after winter. This is a time for growth, renewal, and detoxification. However, to maintain balance and well-being, it’s essential to […]

Sugar Cravings? It’s Not What You Think!

Sugar Cravings & Digestive Health: A Chinese Medicine Perspective Do you often crave sweets? Many people think sugar cravings are just a habit, but in Chinese Medicine, they signal an imbalance in the digestive system—even if you have a strong appetite. Case Study: Sugar Addiction & Energy Imbalance A 47-year-old woman visited my clinic with […]

Understanding Acupuncture: Balancing Yin and Yang

What Causes Yin-Yang Imbalance? Many factors can disrupt the balance of Yin and Yang, leading to health issues. 1. Environmental Factors 🌿 Extreme weather changes (cold, heat, humidity)🌿 Seasonal shifts affecting energy flow 2. Emotional Stress & Mental Health 🧠 Anger weakens the Liver energy system🧠 Stress affects digestion and sleep patterns 3. Lifestyle Choices […]