Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness

05/09/2025

Wellness River Cruise

Truth? A good night’s sleep wasn’t cutting it anymore.
I didn’t need rest. I needed a pause.
A full stop. A chance to let the noise settle and feel like myself again.

So before the cruise, I set one intention: pause.
And this time, I honored it.

Life had been moving fast, and challenges were taking up too much mental space. I was always “on.” Even downtime didn’t feel restful anymore.
Not even a run could clear it or a weekend getaway.

But this wellness river cruise was different.
It wasn’t an escape. It was a reset.

I wandered through the cobblestone streets of Budapest and Salzburg.
I biked Vienna’s artist canal, soaking in the architecture and quiet corners, making the city feel like a living museum.

I pedaled past apple orchards and vineyards near Krems, explored the fairytale charm of Dürnstein, and rolled through the countryside outside Passau.

And sometimes, I just wrapped up in a blanket and let the world float by.

I ate fresh, locally sourced food.
I shared meals and laughter with the best company.
I slowed down long enough to truly feel like me again.

And in that stillness, I remembered something important:
Resilience doesn’t always come from doing more.
1Sometimes it comes from pressing pause.

💬 When was the last time you gave yourself a real pause, not just rest, but space?

03/18/2025

Your Nervous System Works Hard—Give It a Reset

Your nervous system is the ultimate multitasker—it's running the show 24/7, from your stress levels to your sleep quality. But in today’s world of constant pings, deadlines, and endless to-do lists, your nervous system rarely catches a break. That’s where acupuncture steps in—think of it as a power nap for your brain, a reset button for your body.

The best part? You don’t have to commit to weekly sessions to see the benefits. Just one acupuncture session a month can make a lasting impact.

03/12/2025

Can Acupuncture Really Rewire Your Nervous System?

Spoiler: Yes, and the science backs it up.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in a stress loop—wired but exhausted, anxious for no reason, or just constantly on—your nervous system might be running the show. The good news? You’re not stuck like this forever.

Acupuncture is one of the best ways to reset and regulate your nervous system, helping you handle stress better, recover faster, and actually feel calm instead of just pretending you are.

I just published a new article breaking down how acupuncture supports your nervous system (and why even just one session can make a difference).

📖 Read it here: https://element5om.com/acupuncture-stress-relief-nervous-system-reset/

Want to dive even deeper? I covered this in my latest podcast episode, where I share how acupuncture helps shift your body from stress mode to actual relaxation.

🎙 Listen here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1806187/episodes/16699776-stress-your-nervous-system-and-acupuncture-why-just-one-session-makes-a-difference.mp3?download=true

💬 I’d love to hear from you—have you ever noticed a shift in how you feel after acupuncture? Let’s chat in the comments!

Chronic stress takes a toll on your body, but acupuncture can help reset your nervous system—fast. Discover how acupuncture lowers cortisol, reduces inflammation, and restores balance for better sleep, focus, and resilience. Book your session today!

02/14/2025

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic gestures—it’s an opportunity to check in with your health and well-being. Whether you’re sharing the day with loved ones or enjoying your own company, today is a great reminder that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

How are you feeling? What does your body need? Maybe it’s a quiet evening with a book, a nourishing meal, or an acupuncture session to release tension and restore balance. Small, intentional acts of care—like movement, mindfulness, or even treating yourself to something you love—help build resilience and long-term wellness.

Because at the end of the day, the strongest foundation for health and happiness starts with you.

Wishing you warmth, wellness, and a little extra self-care today! 💛

02/12/2025

Sleep, Anxiety & Emotional Health: What Your Shen Says About You

Let’s talk about the heart in TCM in the spirit of Valentine’s Day. Have you ever felt restless at night, anxious for no clear reason, or emotionally scattered—like your mind won’t settle? In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we don’t just look at symptoms in isolation. Instead, we consider the bigger picture—your energy, emotions, and how they all connect. And at the center of it all? Your Shen, the spirit of the heart.

In TCM, your Shen governs your emotional and mental well-being. When it’s balanced, you feel:
✔️ Calm, joyful, and emotionally steady
✔️ Clear-headed and able to focus
✔️ Connected to yourself and others

But when Shen is out of balance, it can show up as:
❌ Anxiety, overthinking, and racing thoughts
❌ Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
❌ Emotional instability—feeling overwhelmed or withdrawn

💡 The good news? There are ways to restore balance. Acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, breathwork, and heart-supporting foods can nourish the Shen and restore your emotional health.

👉 Curious to learn more? I just released a podcast episode diving deep into how TCM views sleep, anxiety, and emotional balance—and what your Shen might be telling you.

🎧 Listen here: https://lnkd.in/g5Wkn_xt

Have you ever experienced these signs of Shen imbalance? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your thoughts! ⬇️

01/29/2025

🧧Happy Lunar New Year 2025! 🐍 The Year of the Snake invites us to move through life with wisdom, adaptability, and quiet strength. Just as the snake sheds its skin, this year is a chance to release what no longer serves us and step into a more vibrant, authentic version of ourselves.

Top 3 Themes for the Year of the Snake:
1️⃣ Transformation – Embrace change as a path to growth and renewal.
2️⃣ Intuition – Trust your instincts to guide you toward clarity and purpose.
3️⃣ Resilience – Stay grounded and adaptable, even when faced with challenges.

✨ What’s one small step you’re taking this year to nurture your wellness? Share below—I’d love to cheer you on!

Gong Xi Fa Cai from Wellness Inspired and Element 5, Acupuncture + Wellness! 🎉

12/16/2024

NEW EPISODE!!! #073 | Designing for Connection: A Hygge Holiday Home🎙🌱💚

In this cozy episode of Wellness Inspired, I dive into the Danish concept of hygge and its power to elevate your holiday gatherings. Learn how to design a space that fosters connection, from setting up your dining table for meaningful dinners to using the “vacant chair” principle for a warm, inviting atmosphere. Discover tips for arranging seating to spark deeper conversations and incorporating sensory elements like lighting, scents, and textures for a cozy vibe. Whether hosting a large family or an intimate group, this episode will inspire you to slow down, savor the season, and carry hygge-inspired wellness into your everyday life.

LISTEN HERE ⬇️
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1806187/episodes/16256668-designing-for-connection-a-hygge-holiday-home.mp3?download=true

11/27/2024

NEW EPISODE!!! #072 | Thanksgiving Meditation: Reconnect with Peace, Calm, and Gratitude🎙🌱💚

This Thanksgiving, we pause to honor the flow of life and health—the gentle transformations that bring balance and ease. At Wellness Inspired, We are grateful for YOU. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your wellness journey, and we wish you a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, love, and health.

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Wellness Inspired, I invite you to take a moment of stillness and tap into the power of gratitude. Join me for a short, calming, guided meditation to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or a beginner, this practice will help you reconnect with yourself and embrace wellness as an exciting journey. With the holiday season in full swing, this episode offers a peaceful pause to reflect on what truly matters—your health, your peace, and the gift of presence.

Tune in for a moment of tranquility and gratitude. Click below to access your free guided meditation. Download it and save it for later when you need a moment to yourself!

LISTEN HERE ⬇️
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1806187/episodes/16179423-thanksgiving-meditation-reconnect-with-peace-calm-and-gratitude.mp3?download=true

08/16/2024

Blog 🌟 It's summertime, and it is hot! We are in the peak yang season, and it would be fun to introduce the idea of balancing the yin and yang aspects in daily life practices because having too much of one thing is never good. In holistic wellness, the concept of Yin and Yang offers a profound framework for achieving balance and harmony in our lives.

Rooted in Eastern philosophy, Yin and Yang represent opposing yet complementary forces that exist in a delicate equilibrium. Yin is associated with calm, receptivity, and rest, while yang embodies activity, energy, and dynamism. Striking a balance between these forces is essential for well-being. It can be applied to both personal and professional aspects of life. Here are some practical tips for achieving that balance.

Read the full article here: https://element5om.com/balancing-yin-and-yang-in-daily-life-practical-tips-for-achieving-harmony-in-your-personal-and-professional-life/

Acupuncture in Houston, Texas. We help you get healthier through Acupuncture, Eastern herbal medicine, and Integrative health coaching so you can thrive in your life.

08/13/2024

"The journey to wellness starts from within you." 🌟 Embrace the power of your inner strength and take the first step toward a healthier, happier life. Every choice you make today shapes the vibrant future you desire. 🌿

07/18/2024

Part 1 | Unlocking Your Wellness Potential with a Health and Wellness Coach

Why Health and Wellness Coaching Works

06/28/2024

NEW EPISODE!!! #065 | A Positive Approach to Menopause and Mental Health with Istra Bauza🎙🌱💚

Unlock the secrets to navigating menopause with confidence and grace in this transformative episode. Istra Bauza is a mental health counselor in training, PT2 Life Coach, Ironman Coach, USMA Swim Coach, Ironman Triathlete, Cyclist, and mother. Listen as she shares her invaluable insights on how menopause affects our mental health and emotional wellbeing. I promise you'll walk away with a new perspective on menopause, viewing it not as a disease but as a natural transition that can be managed with empathy, self-compassion, and an integrated approach to wellbeing.

We don't shy away from the tough topics. Body image, aging, and the societal pressures women face are all on the table. We highlight the importance of self-compassion, boundary-setting, and seeking therapy during challenging life stages. Learn how to reframe negative thoughts, set manageable goals, and embrace each stage of life with a positive mindset. Whether you're dealing with the effects of menopause or simply looking to improve your quality of life, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable tips to help you thrive. Take advantage of this empowering conversation!

LISTEN HERE ⬇️
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1806187/15324926-a-positive-approach-to-menopause-and-mental-health-with-istra-bauza.mp3?download=true