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Aliki Zouliou - Shiatsu Therapy

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Aliki Zouliou - Shiatsu Therapy

Aliki Zouliou is a qualified Shiatsu Therapist (Dip. Shiatsu & Oriental Therapies) and member of the Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia (STAA).

She is self-employed and is based in Eaglemont and Kew, Victoria. Shiatsu & Oriental Therapies), member of the Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia (STAA) and holds a current 'Working With Children Check'. She is self-employed and is based in Eaglemont, Victoria. Aliki specialises in Zen, Classical & Barefoot shiatsu styles, as well as other oriental therapies such as Cupping, Moxibustion and Gua sha. She has completed post-graduate studies in shiatsu for Pregnancy and Infants... and is privileged to have completed the OHASHI Method & Oriental Diagnosis courses with Japanese Shiatsu Master 'Wataru Ohashi' from New York. Shiatsu is a therapeutic form of Japanese acupressure that has an overall holistic effect of returning the body, mind & spirit back to a natural state of balance. The experience of shiatsu can re-energise, relieve pain and bring about a deep sense of relaxation. Unlike most body therapies, a shiatsu treatment is received fully clothed, on a traditional futon on the floor, allowing the receiver to completely relax in a comfortable, safe and peaceful space. Shiatsu therapy works by the application of pressure to specific points on the client's body, to assist in balancing & unblocking the flow of energy (chi) along the energetic pathways (meridians). This benefits the internal organs and reinforces the body's ability to function harmoniously. Shiatsu aims to improve circulation, release tension and relieve pain. Furthermore, it can strengthen the body's resistance to disease & disorder, and promote self-healing. Shiatsu is appropriate for anyone concerned about their general wellbeing. There are a wide range of conditions that respond well to shiatsu, including:

-neck, shoulder & back pain
-muscular tension
-anxiety & emotional stress
-women's health & pregnancy
-depression & grief
-digestive problems
-headache & migraine
-tiredness & fatigue
-poor circulation
-insomnia
-palliative care
-preventative health

BOOKINGS:

*NOTE: CURRENTLY NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS EXCEPT BY REFERRAL

To make an appointment, contact Aliki on 0415 369 964. Consultations include diagnostic assessment and Shiatsu treatment, and may also include other oriental therapies (cupping /gua sha) as required. Please wear comfortable clothing and clean socks. Easy parking and access. COST:
$170 - Initial Consultation (up to 2 hrs duration).
$150 - Subsequent Consultation (90 min duration). Payment by cash or direct debit (No eftpos or credit card facilities).
$10 Concession discount. Gift Vouchers are available.

22/09/2025

🌸 IT'S TIME TO SPRING CLEAN YOUR BODY!

As the days become longer and the Spring Equinox approaches, nature awakens with a fresh buzz in the air and a burst of new growth in the garden. This is a welcome reminder that it is time to ‘spring clean’ your body and mind, just as you would de-clutter your home.

Over the winter months, physical and emotional toxins accumulate, and this residue can cause an obstruction in the smooth flow of energy (Chi) throughout your body.

In Traditional Oriental Medicine, SPRING is linked to the LIVER & GALLBLADDER, and the WOOD element - representing growth, movement, and renewal. The LIVER plays a powerful role: it stores blood, governs the muscles, tendons, nerves and eyes – and keeps Chi, blood and emotions flowing smoothly.

Quite often, due to inactivity over winter, the Liver energy becomes stagnant. This can show up as mood swings, tension, frequent sighing, or simply feeling ‘stuck.’

Other physical & emotional symptoms might include:

• Headaches or migraines (esp. sides of head)
• High blood pressure
• Eye problems
• Menstrual irregularities
• Digestive issues
• Aches & pains (esp. along sides of body)
• Tightness in tendons
• Bursts of anger, frustration or shouting
• Feeling irritable, grumpy, intolerant, impatient or resentful
• Depression, gloominess or anxiety
• Procrastination or lacking clarity to make goals

Gentle bodywork therapies like Shiatsu, Cupping and Gua sha are excellent ways to help resolve this imbalance by clearing stagnation and energetic blockages. Daily exercise is also essential to promote blood circulation and the smooth flow of Liver Chi.

If you are required to sit for long periods during work or study, try taking regular breaks to walk around or do some stretching. Side stretches are good for the Gallbladder and wide-legged forward bends are great for the Liver. Where possible, take the stairs instead of the lift, or cycle instead of driving.

Be mindful outdoors, as Spring winds can stir up allergens, irritate the eyes and be unsettling for the Liver, throwing everything out of balance. Dress appropriately and avoid windy conditions when you can.

In the Five Element framework, the WOOD element also relates to SOUR flavours and the colour GREEN. You can therefore supplement your diet to support your Liver further with:

• Leafy greens & sprouts
• Pickled and fermented foods
• Sour fruits like Granny Smith apples and tart kiwifruit
• Filtered water with a squeeze of lime or lemon
• Avoiding alcohol, bad fats and processed foods

If you’ve been considering doing a cleanse or detox, SPRING is the perfect time! Detoxification will help improve digestion, eliminate toxins, increase energy levels, boost immunity, clear your mind and renew your spirit.

Following these tips can help align you with the upward energy of the nature that surrounds you this season, encouraging new growth, creativity and expression.

So, get moving, de-clutter and embrace SPRING with a burst of free-flowing vitality!

Aliki 🌿

01/06/2025

WINTER & the WATER ELEMENT:

WINTER is the time to rug up, retreat, rest, reflect and replenish. As our bodies adjust to the cooler weather, we mentally prepare for the slow, dark, inward-moving nature of the colder months ahead.

During this season, the focus is on nurturing the KIDNEYS and balancing the BLADDER energy, as these organs are the regulators of water within our bodies.

In Traditional Oriental Medicine theory, WINTER represents the WATER element, which is associated with COLD climate, the colour BLACK, SALTY taste, the emotion of FEAR, the EARS, BONES, MARROW, BRAIN, REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS and most significantly, the KIDNEYS & BLADDER.

The KIDNEY/BLADDER organ-meridian system balances yin & yang within the body, regulates & maintains all the body fluids and stores the ‘life force’ (essence or JING).

When these organs are out of balance, some of the following symptoms may be noticeable:
Lower backache, weak or achy bones/joints (especially in hips, knees, ankles or feet), loose teeth, anxiety, fear, panic attacks, adrenal fatigue, urinary problems, kidney stones, occipital headaches, tinnitus, dizziness/vertigo, poor memory, hot flushes, premature ageing, hair loss, infertility or lack of libido.
Other signs may include groaning, dark circles under eyes, cold hands & feet, aversion to cold and a lack of willpower.

Nourishing deficient KIDNEY energy can help bring any excess in the BLADDER back into balance.

Here are some simple ways to support your KIDNEYS:

REST – ensure you are getting adequate, good-quality night-time sleep, and take catnaps during the day if your body needs it.

GENTLE EXERCISE – try Yoga, Tai chi, Qigong or stretching to move chi/energy and help circulate fluid around the body, whilst preserving the joints.

BODYWORK – shiatsu, self-massage, foot massage and lymphatic drainage massage are great for stimulating & balancing the meridians and improving lymph flow.

WARMTH – rug up and keep your feet, ears and lower back warm, by wearing woollen socks, beanie and jumper or kidney warmer. Enjoy a warm Epsom salt bath or hot ginger foot soak. Avoid cold food and icy beverages.

STRESS REDUCTION – engage in creative and relaxing activities such as drawing, mindfulness, meditation and slow, deep belly breathing with longer exhalation. Keep in mind that stress, fear and anxiety will shut down your immune system, and winter is the time you need your immunity to be the strongest!

NOURISHMENT – eat nourishing foods, like warm & hearty stews, slow-cooked meals, marrow bone broths or dark blue/black blood-nourishing foods. Include a touch of salty flavour such as seafood, seaweed/kelp or a pinch of Celtic sea salt.

HYDRATION – stay hydrated with unchilled filtered water, herbal teas and soups.

Be in tune with your body & mind this winter and give yourself permission to curl up on the couch, rest, relax and nurture the WATER element within you.

Stay warm & cosy,
Aliki ❄️

20/03/2025

AUTUMN EQUINOX – TIME FOR LETTING GO:

As a tribute to the late Michael Leunig, I am re-posting this cartoon which is such a fitting reminder that Autumn is the time for ‘letting go’ of what no longer serves, in order to create space for what is fresh, new and of true importance.

After the recent Late Summer heatwave, we welcome the Autumn Equinox, where the focus is on purification and elimination. As the energy starts to contract inwards and downwards, we shift into the METAL Phase, which, in Oriental Medicine theory, is associated with the LUNGS, LARGE INTESTINE, SKIN, NOSE & IMMUNE SYSTEM.
The lungs filter in fresh pure air through the nose and exhale stale air. The large intestines are responsible for releasing the body’s waste. The skin also aids in detoxification through the act of sweating, and the immune system helps rid our bodies of foreign pathogens and toxic substances.
The emotion associated with Metal is grief or sadness. By allowing ourselves to express our grief appropriately, we are able to weep and 'let go'.

This all reflects the energetic nature of the season. Just as the trees 'let go' of their leaves, the Metal element connects us with the ability to 'let go' of the past, the old and the stale... and make way for fresh, new growth.

Imbalance can make it difficult to let go, causing stubbornness, heaviness, obsessive-compulsive disorder, long-standing grief or depression.

Other signs of imbalance include: chest pain or heaviness, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, a weakened immune system, asthma, allergies, sinusitis or bronchitis, skin problems, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence or irritable bowel syndrome.

When the METAL element within, is healthy & balanced, one can move through the acceptance of the phases of life more easily, without becoming emotionally trapped or stuck, allowing openness to intuition and spirituality.

Regular deep breathing practice this season will be beneficial, particularly when surrounded by the fresh, clean air of a forest or sea. Exercise that focuses on the breath, like Qigong, Tai chi or Yoga would be ideal, as well as bodywork such as shiatsu or manual lymphatic drainage massage.
Meditation and prayer are also useful practices to help clear the mental and spiritual garbage that can accumulate in our minds.

Good digestion, starting with chewing your food really well, will help promote regular elimination. Foods with a pungent flavour, that are white in colour (onion, garlic, radish, turnip, white mustard, ginger, cabbage, horseradish, or white peppercorns) can be included in your diet.

Decluttering is not an easy task for many, so it’s best to start with the breath. Inhale deeply… exhale slowly… and ‘let it go’.
Breathe out everything that is old, stale, toxic or stressful… and breathe in only what is fresh, clean, pure, happy and peaceful.
This is a great way to start your day, leaving you feeling positive, uplifted and full of energy.

Namaste,
Aliki 🍂

28/01/2025

YEAR OF THE YIN GREEN WOOD SNAKE 2025:

HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR!
According to the Chinese Astrologists, the Year of the YIN WOOD SNAKE invites us to embrace transformation, introspection, wisdom and regeneration.

The mysterious and intuitive SNAKE transforms itself by shedding its skin in order to grow. We are encouraged to do the same – shed old habits, beliefs, patterns or burdens – to welcome renewal and personal growth from within.

The SNAKE is calm, strategic, introspective and cares for itself. This is an excellent reminder to care for our physical and mental health by exploring practices that promote mindfulness – like meditation, qigong, tai chi, yoga or journal writing. This is a perfect time for preventative care and energetic balance through acupuncture, shiatsu, herbal medicine and thoughtful living.

With the added influence of the YIN WOOD element for growth, flexibility, creativity, rejuvenation and peaceful connection with nature, this year we can focus on self-care, personal growth, long-term goals and new beginnings.

In Traditional Oriental Medicine, the WOOD element relates to the organs of the Liver and Gallbladder, the Eyes & Tendons, and the emotions of Anger & Frustration.

Like last year, it will be important to keep your liver & gallbladder healthy and balanced with regular movement, to prevent stagnation, frustration or feeling stuck. Focus on more Yin based activities such as walking or hiking in a forest, leisurely riding a bike through a park, or doing yoga in the garden. Stretching is great for the tendons and regular eye exercises are recommended. Moving the body freely, like a snake, helps to clear any blockages and release old unwanted energy, thoughts and emotions from the past.

Finally, foods that support the WOOD element include green fruits & veggies, and sour foods. Avoid fried or greasy foods, and overeating.

May you embrace the energy of the YIN GREEN WOOD SNAKE and look forward to a year of new beginnings, transformation, introspection, strategic planning, flexibility and peace.

Wishing you all health and good fortune…

Aliki 🐍

20/12/2024

SUMMER SOLSTICE & the HEART:

The Summer Solstice has arrived, officially marking the beginning of summer! Being the longest day in the year, the sun is at its most powerful, bursting with energy and radiance. Tapping into this energy can help us to also shine brightly, open our hearts to feel joy and maximise our potential for new growth & inspiration.

In Traditional Oriental Medicine, summer relates to the FIRE element, which is predominantly associated with the HEART and PERICARDIUM (Heart Protector). The Summer Solstice is therefore a special time for many cultures to celebrate love, joy and the special people in our lives. For those of us in the Southern Hemisphere, the joy, expansion and passion of summer energy is often directed towards celebrating with our families and friends over the festive season.

When the HEART energy is balanced, there is an enthusiasm for life, we feel love, joy & passion, the mind is calm and we sleep soundly. It is said that the HEART also anchors our mind and houses our spirit ('Shen').

Signs of imbalance may include agitation, nervousness, heartburn, poor blood circulation, palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, spontaneous sweating, insomnia, poor memory, rashes, anxiety, poor self-image, lack of joy or excess joy (mania).

Improving circulation with exercise, shiatsu and massage will help balance the HEART energy; engaging in joyful movement & dance, chest-opening yoga poses, listening to music, and other forms of self-expression (writing, painting, singing, etc.), can all open up the HEART; surrounding yourself with anything that brings you joy and makes you laugh will nourish the HEART; and moving on from old emotional wounds will help heal the HEART.

Summer is naturally the time to be active outdoors - exercising, travelling, exploring, playing, having fun, socialising, laughing, celebrating and soaking up the sun. Be sure to protect your Heart by avoiding excessive heat, staying well hydrated, and eating cooling foods – especially red or bitter foods.

Take the time to pause and reflect on the past 12 months and be inspired to set intentions & resolutions for the coming year that will help fulfil the desires of your Heart.

Wishing you all a sunny summer solstice and a joyful festive season!

Keep shining…
Aliki ❤

01/09/2024

SPRING & the WOOD ELEMENT:

As we welcome spring after the quiet time of winter, we can feel a shift in energy and the beginning of a new cycle of life, as the trees burst into blossom.

In the Five-Elements theory, SPRING is associated with the WOOD element. The quality of the WOOD energy is experienced as rebirth & growth, and just like the nature that surrounds us, our bodies tend to have a burst of upward & outward energy. This is a time for growth and renewal, reaching new heights, creativity and expression.

In Traditional Oriental Medicine, the WOOD element relates to the organs of the LIVER & GALLBLADDER, the TENDONS and EYES.

Quite often the inactivity over winter can make our LIVER energy (Chi) become stagnant or ‘stuck’. This condition can cause mood swings, frequent sighing, or distension of abdomen or chest.
Other symptoms include headaches/migraines, high blood pressure, eye problems, menstrual irregularities or digestive issues.
Quite often there will be tension, or aches & pains, particularly along the sides of the body, or tightness in the tendons. Emotionally, there may be a tendency towards ANGER or FRUSTRATION. You may be inclined to SHOUT and feel grumpy, resentful, impatient, irritable, intolerant, depressed, or lack enough clarity to make goals.

Movement and exercise are essential to help resolve this imbalance, especially for people who sit for long periods of time throughout the day. Walking, jogging, dancing or cycling, are all great for improving Liver Chi Stagnation.
When outdoors, avoid the WIND, as it can stir up allergens and pathogens, throwing your immune system out of balance. The LIVER is particularly susceptible to the effects of wind, and it is important to keep the neck area well covered with a scarf or coat.
When indoors, you can focus on deep breathing, stretching your tendons with yoga, doing eye exercises and bouncing on a rebounder (mini trampoline).
Shiatsu is a wonderful way to balance the LIVER & GALLBLADDER energies and encourage the free flow of ‘chi’ throughout the body. Cupping and Gua sha are also excellent techniques for clearing stagnation, stimulating circulation and improving cellulite.

The WOOD element also relates to SOUR flavours and the colour GREEN. Include more leafy greens, lemons, limes, grapefruit, vinegar, pickles and granny smith apples in your diet this season to support the LIVER, especially when feeling frustrated, stuck, stressed or angry. Avoid alcohol and cold, fried, fatty or overly processed foods. It is also a perfect time to do a cleanse or detox.

May you embrace the WOOD element this SPRING with a burst of energy and enthusiasm. Get moving, start afresh, try something new, express yourself, be creative, and achieve your goals.

Happy blossoming!
Aliki 🌸

23/06/2024

WINTER WARMING:

We are well into winter with the extremely chilly and frosty mornings we have been experiencing and the WINTER SOLSTICE now behind us. Whilst the crisp cool fresh air can be invigorating in short bursts, it is important to support our bodies through the cold months ahead and find ways to seek warmth and nourishment.

The COLD climate of WINTER corresponds to the WATER Element in Oriental Medicine Theory, which is also associated with the colour BLACK, SALTY taste, the emotion of FEAR, the EARS, BONES, MARROW, BRAIN, REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS, the KIDNEYS, BLADDER & ADRENAL GLANDS.

When these organ systems are out of balance, the main symptoms we may notice include: lower backache; weak, stiff or achy bones/joints (especially in hips, knees, ankles or feet); anxiety, excessive fear or panic attacks; adrenal fatigue or lethargy; frequent urination, kidney stones, UTIs; cold hands and feet; occipital headaches, tinnitus, dizziness, vertigo, poor memory; hot flushes, night sweats, excessive thirst; premature ageing, greying or hair loss; infertility, impotence or lack of libido. Other signs may include frequent groaning, dark circles or puffiness under eyes, loose teeth, an aversion to cold and a lack of willpower.

Prolonged exposure to cold temperature reduces blood circulation by causing the constriction of blood vessels, muscles, tendons and ligaments, which can impact our bones, leading to discomfort and injuries. Maintaining warmth during cold weather is therefore essential for preserving our bone health as well as our Kidney function. Indoor central heating may keep you warm, but it can also be dehydrating over long periods.

Staying hydrated is necessary for maintaining circulation and joint health. Add hydrating, warming and nourishing foods to your diet, such as soups and stews. Other beneficial foods include hearty slow-cooked meals, marrow bone broths and dark, black/blue or blood-nourishing ingredients.
Drink herbal teas like chai with warm spices and avoid icy cold drinks. A pinch of good quality, mineral-rich salt such as Celtic or Himalayan in a glass of filtered water can improve hydration. Too much table salt can be damaging.

Exercise is a way to increase blood circulation and generate warmth from the inside out. Focus on gentle stretching & flowing exercise such as Yoga, Tai chi or Qigong, to preserve the muscles & joints whilst distributing warmth, chi & fluid around the body. SHIATSU also is perfect for improving circulation and nourishing the Kidneys during winter, as you remain fully clothed, cosy and warm under a blanket!

Although the temperature outside is chilly, the winter sun can be quite warming, so look for opportunities to soak up some sunshine to boost your mood and immunity at the same time. Avoiding stress and relieving anxiety will also help keep your immune system strong and prevent adrenal fatigue.

Since the Kidneys are associated with the lower back, feet and ears, it is important to keep these vulnerable areas covered and warm, with layers of clothing, thermals, woollen beanies and jumpers or a ‘Haramaki’ (Japanese kidney warmer). Some people may feel hot in the upper part of their body and not notice that their lower back is exposed, or their feet are cold. Wearing woollen socks to bed or a wheaty bag over the feet can help. A hot Epsom salt foot bath with ginger can also draw heat down from the head and activate the energy of the Kidney meridian.

Winter is naturally a time for hibernation, where we are encouraged to rug up, retreat, rest, reflect and replenish, so utilise this time to relax your mind and listen to your body. Enjoy the opportunity to curl up on the couch with a warm blanket and cup of chai tea, and provide your body with the nourishment and warmth it needs.

Namaste,
Aliki ❄

20/03/2024

AUTUMN & THE METAL ELEMENT:

With the arrival of the Autumn Equinox, we now shift into the phase of the METAL Element, which in Oriental Medicine theory is associated with the LUNGS, LARGE INTESTINE, SKIN, NOSE & IMMUNE SYSTEM. The focus is on purification and elimination. The LUNGS are ‘Yin’, linking the external to the internal, filtering in fresh pure air and exhaling stale air. The LARGE INTESTINES are ‘Yang’, responsible for releasing the body’s waste.

These organs can easily become out of balance from things like environmental toxicity, food additives, or an accumulation of negative thoughts. Signs of imbalance include: chest pain or heaviness, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, a weakened immune system, asthma, allergies, sinusitis or bronchitis, skin problems, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhoea, flatulence or irritable bowel syndrome.

The METAL element also correlates with the colour WHITE, the sound of WEEPING, PUNGENT taste, DRY climate, and the emotion of GRIEF or SADNESS. These attributes are reflected in nature as it retreats into itself, and the leaves on the trees wither and fall. The action of ‘letting go’ of what no longer serves, is necessary to create space for what is fresh, new and of true importance.
Imbalance can make it difficult to let go, causing stubbornness, heaviness, obsessive-compulsive disorder, long-standing grief or depression.

When the METAL element is healthy & balanced, one can move through the acceptance of the phases of life more easily, without becoming emotionally trapped or stuck, allowing openness to intuition and spirituality.

Regular deep breathing practice this season will be beneficial, particularly when surrounded by the fresh, clean air of a forest or sea. Exercise that focuses on the breath, such as Qigong, Tai chi or Yoga would be ideal.

Good digestion, starting with chewing your food really well, will help promote regular elimination. Foods with a pungent flavour, that are white in colour (onion, garlic, radish, turnip, white mustard, ginger, cabbage, horseradish, or white peppercorns) can be included in your diet.

Finally, avoid dryness by staying hydrated with filtered water, and keeping your skin well moisturised with a natural moisturiser, like coconut oil.

As you start to retreat, with the energy of Autumn, inhale deeply… exhale slowly… and let go of everything that no longer serves you.

Namaste,
Aliki 🍂

05/03/2024

LATE SUMMER & the EARTH ELEMENT:

As we shift into Autumn, we are experiencing a period of warmer weather, often referred to as LATE SUMMER. This is the ‘season between seasons’ – the progression from warm to cool, from expansion to contraction, from Yang to Yin, when the EARTH Element is at its peak. The nourishing, nurturing and grounding energy of Mother Earth is a stabilising force for the body, mind & spirit during this time, and it can help us become centred, grounded and balanced.

In Traditional Oriental Medicine, the EARTH Element is associated with the organs of digestion & nutrition – the STOMACH, SPLEEN and PANCREAS, as well as the MOUTH and the MUSCLES. The food you eat starts to get broken down in the stomach and then the nutrients are distributed throughout the body by the spleen and pancreas. The pancreas also regulates your blood-sugar levels. Eating reasonably sized meals slowly and calmly will allow your stomach and spleen to work at their best.

The colour relating to the Earth element is YELLOW and includes shades of orange & brown. The taste is SWEET, so you may like to include naturally sweet foods into your diet, such as golden apples, peaches, bananas, cantaloupe, mangoes, corn and especially root vegetables that come from the earth such as pumpkin, sweet potato & carrot. However, avoid added refined sugars, as too much sweetness can have the opposite effect and be quite damaging.

It is beneficial to go for a walk after eating, as movement aids the digestion, assimilation and distribution of nutrients throughout your body. Walking barefoot on grass, soil or sand is a great way of grounding with the earth energy and connecting with nature.

The EARTH element is associated with the sound of SINGING, so it is a perfect time to join a choir or sing in the shower! It is also related to the emotion of PENSIVENESS or CONTEMPLATION. When out of balance, this emotion can turn into over-thinking, worry, obsession or smothering.

An imbalance in the Earth energy within us can also cause fatigue, weak muscles and numerous digestive issues such as indigestion, bloating, gas, constipation, loose stools, overeating, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, irritable bowel syndrome, poor appetite, sweet cravings, weight gain, eating disorders or diabetes.

Bodywork, such as SHIATSU is a wonderful way of balancing your EARTH energy, as the Spleen loves to be nourished by physical touch and stretching. Hugs are also beneficial, so give and receive freely! The other most important way of keeping your EARTH element balanced is to immerse yourself in nature. This is the best time to do some gardening, go hiking, hug a tree, roll down a hill, do yoga in a park or walk barefoot on the beach.

May you enjoy this period of Late Summer – and the grounding energy of Mother Earth.

Warm hugs,
Aliki

10/02/2024

YEAR OF THE YANG GREEN WOOD DRAGON 2024:

HAPPY LUNAR NEW YEAR! According to the Chinese Astrologists, the Year of the YANG GREEN WOOD DRAGON is predicted to be a time of growth, innovation, problem solving, progress and new opportunities.

Our health and well-being will be influenced by the natural harmony of dynamic Yang Dragon energy combined with the transforming property of WOOD, and the rejuvenating & fresh qualities of the colour GREEN.

In Traditional Oriental Medicine, the WOOD element relates to the organs of the LIVER and GALLBLADDER, the EYES & TENDONS, and the emotions of ANGER & FRUSTRATION.
This year it will be important to keep your Liver & Gallbladder healthy and balanced with regular movement such as running, cycling or yoga. Stretching is great for the tendons and regular eye exercises are recommended.

Moving the body helps free any blockages of ‘chi’ and blood as well as releasing old unwanted energy, thoughts and emotions from the past.

By embracing this powerful YANG energy, you can keep the WOOD element flowing, prevent stagnation of Liver Chi, and avoid emotional issues of anger or frustration.

If the fast pace of the Dragon year leaves you feeling swamped or stressed, maintain your inner balance with relaxing activities such as meditation, qigong, tai chi, gardening or walking in a park or forest.

Foods that support Liver & Gallbladder function include green fruits & veggies, and sour foods. Avoid fried or greasy foods, and overeating.

May this Lunar New Year symbolise a new beginning, and bring you the strength, vitality, confidence and courage to soar like a Dragon.

Wishing you all health & good fortune…
Aliki 🐲

30/11/2023

SUMMER & the HEART:

As spring comes to a close and we shift into summer, we look forward to the warmer weather and the festive season ahead to bring us joy and nourish our HEARTS.

Summer is associated with the FIRE Element in Traditional Oriental Medicine, which relates to the emotion of JOY, the sound of LAUGHTER, the colour RED, BITTER taste, and the organs of the HEART, PERICARDIUM (heart protector) & SMALL INTESTINE.

The HEART circulates and regulates our blood, ensuring proper assimilation as food starts to break down in the SMALL INTESTINE. The HEART governs the BLOOD VESSELS and opens into the TONGUE; therefore, the colour of the complexion and tongue can be good indicators of the state of the HEART. It is said that the HEART also anchors our mind and houses our spirit ('Shen').

When the HEART energy is balanced, there is an enthusiasm for life, we feel love, joy, passion & excitement, the mind is calm & intuitive, the spirit is grounded, and we sleep soundly. Signs of imbalance may include agitation, nervousness, heartburn, insomnia, poor memory, palpitations, excessive or spontaneous sweating, shortness of breath, rashes, anxiety, speech issues, easily startled, poor self-image, lack of joy or excess joy (mania).

SHIATSU is perfect for balancing HEART energy, along with regular exercise to keep the circulatory system in good condition. Joyful movement & dance, chest-opening yoga poses, listening to music, and other forms of self-expression (writing, painting, singing, etc.), all help nourish and open the HEART.
Avoid exposing yourself to excessive heat as it can have a detrimental effect on the health of your heart. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids and eat cooling foods. Including some red or bitter foods in your diet may be particularly beneficial (e.g. goji berries, rhubarb, watermelon, strawberries, red apples, radish, beetroot, dark chocolate, e.v. olive oil).
Most importantly, focus on things that bring you joy. The simplest things like smiling at yourself in the mirror every morning and regular belly laughing can help to open up the HEART.

Allow the warmth, expansion and passion of summer energy to be directed towards celebrating love, generating laughter and nourishing your HEART. Live your passion… love, exercise, dance, smile, giggle, play… and experience the joys of life!

Best wishes for a joyous festive season…

Always from the HEART,
Aliki ❤️

Note: This information is for general health and wellbeing and should not be substituted for specific medical advice.

31/08/2023

STEPPING into SPRING:

As we transition between seasons, it is a good time to support our digestive organs with mindful eating and prepare our bodies for a shift from being more internal to more external, over the coming weeks. The upward and outward energy of SPRING makes it the season of new beginnings and a time for growth, reaching new heights, creativity and expression.

Sometimes, the lack of activity over winter can make us feel ‘stuck’ and devoid of energy. Physical and emotional toxins and residue that have accumulated over the winter months can cause an obstruction in the smooth flow of energy (chi) throughout our bodies.
This is especially apparent in the LIVER and GALL BLADDER, which are the organs associated with SPRING and the WOOD element in Traditional Oriental Medicine. If the Liver ‘chi’ becomes stagnant it can cause mood swings, frequent sighing, or distension of abdomen or chest. We may feel frustrated, angry, grumpy, resentful, impatient, irritable, intolerant, depressed, or lack enough clarity to make goals.
Other symptoms include headaches/migraines, high blood pressure, eye problems, menstrual irregularities or digestive issues. Quite often there will be tension, or aches & pains, particularly along the sides of the body, or tightness in the tendons. Any sort of pain usually involves stagnation of some sort - be it blood, body fluids, energy, emotions or thoughts.

Shiatsu is a wonderful way to help resolve this imbalance and encourage the free flow of ‘chi’ throughout the body. Cupping and Gua sha are also excellent techniques for clearing stagnation and improving circulation.

Movement and exercise are essential, especially for people who sit for long periods of time throughout the day. Walking, jogging, dancing, cycling and swimming are all great for improving Liver Chi Stagnation. When outdoors, avoid the WIND, as it can stir up allergens and pathogens, throwing your immune system out of balance. The LIVER is particularly susceptible to the effects of wind, and it is important to keep the neck area well covered with a scarf or coat. When indoors, you can focus on stretching your TENDONS with yoga, doing EYE exercises and bouncing on a rebounder (mini trampoline).

The WOOD Element also relates to SOUR flavours and the colour GREEN. Include more leafy greens, lemons, limes, grapefruit, vinegar, pickles and granny smith apples in your diet this season to support the LIVER, especially when feeling frustrated, stuck, stressed or angry. Avoid alcohol and cold, fried, fatty or overly processed foods.

Now is the time to get moving, clear out the winter residue and cleanse your LIVER. Step into SPRING with a burst of energy & enthusiasm, SHOUT out and express yourself!

Good vibes…
Aliki 🌸

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Eaglemont
Melbourne, VIC
3084

Opening Hours

Monday	10am - 5:30pm
Tuesday	10am - 5:30pm
Wednesday	10am - 5:30pm
Thursday	10am - 5:30pm
Friday	10am - 5:30pm

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+61415369964

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