In a world that seems to run on speed, many people feel drained long before the day is done. Qigong is a gentle, ancient Chinese practice that harmonizes breath, movement and awareness and offers a simple way to recharge.

The best part? You don’t need a mat, special clothing or even a lot of space. You can cultivate real, vibrant energy right from a chair.

Read on for a simple seated Qigong routine designed to awaken your vitality, calm the nervous system and strengthen the flow of qi (energy) throughout your body.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Blood (Xue) is more than that which flows through our veins. It’s the foundation of vitality, mental clarity, emotional balance and physical strength. When Blood is abundant and flowing smoothly, we feel grounded, calm, and radiant. When it’s deficient, we may experience fatigue, dizziness, pale complexion, dry skin, brittle nails, insomnia or even anxiety.

One of the most natural and effective ways to build and nourish Blood is through food. Let’s explore how TCM views Blood nourishment and which foods can help restore balance, boost energy and support the menstrual cycle.

As the vibrant colours of autumn begin to appear, we are reminded that nature is in constant transition and so are we. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the change of season is not just about weather, but also a shift in energy, emotions and how we care for our bodies.

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, but for many it brings significant discomfort and impacts quality of life. Symptoms such as hot flashes (vasomotor symptoms or VMS), night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings and physical changes are common. While hormone therapy remains a standard treatment, some women seek non‑hormonal alternatives. Among these alternatives is acupuncture. In this blog I’ll summarise what we know (and don’t know) about the use of acupuncture in menopause, featuring key studies including those by Avis et al., Lund et al. and Zhao et al. and provide a balanced perspective of benefits, limitations and practical considerations.

If you’re considering acupuncture for the first time, it’s natural to feel curious about what to expect. At ZEN·6 Acupuncture Highgate, Amelia provides a calm, professional environment where each treatment is tailored to your unique health needs and goals. Whether you’re seeking support for stress, pain relief, fertility or overall wellbeing, your first acupuncture session is the foundation for a personalised treatment plan.