Hello, my friend!

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As I sit here watching the ducks and geese rest on the pond outside my window, I can't help but reflect on the profound wisdom of nature's cycles. This quiet time of winter, it's so beautiful! It's like Mother Nature is whispering to us, "Slow down, darling. It's time to restore.

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👇 In today’s email:

• This week’s inspiration: 3 Ways to Thrive This Winter (Not Just Survive)
• Latest blog post: Comforting White Bean Soup with Pancetta and Parmesan
• What I’m reading: A New Approach To Obesity

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3 Ways to Thrive This Winter (Not Just Survive)

The Yin of winter is so crucial for our wellbeing. Think of it as nature's way of hitting the reset button. We need this time to replenish our energy, and trust me, there are so many reasons why:

1. Supporting Summer's Yang: Remember those long summer days filled with endless socializing and vibrant activities? That's the excessive yang energy we love to indulge in. But to truly enjoy and sustain those moments, we need to balance them out with some serious yin time.
2. Rekindling Our Inner Fire: By going inward and embracing quiet restoration, we're actually stoking our internal flames. It's like we're gathering kindling for the bonfire of energy we'll need come spring and summer.
3. Finding Peace in the Pause: There's a unique beauty in this time of year. It's an invitation to curl up with a good book, maybe snuggle with a furry friend, and savor a warm cup of tea. It's in these moments of stillness that we often find our greatest insights and deepest peace.

Embracing the Quiet

Now, I know some of you might be thinking, "But Dr. Cat, I've got so much to do!" And I hear you, I really do. But here's the thing – by allowing ourselves this time of quiet restoration, we're actually preparing ourselves to be more vibrant and renewed for the upcoming seasons.

It's like that old saying, "You can't pour from an empty cup." This is your time to refill, recharge, and rejuvenate. And the best part? The light is coming. We know that spring will bloom, and summer will shine. But right now, in this moment, we have the gift of rest.

Your Winter Wellness Invitation

So, my lovely friends, I want to extend an invitation to you. Embrace this yin time. Allow yourself the space to go inward. Maybe it's through meditation, journaling, or simply sitting in silence with a cup of your favorite tea. Whatever it looks like for you, give yourself permission to slow down and nourish your spirit.

Remember, this isn't about being unproductive. It's about being proactive in your self-care. It's about saying "Yes, you can!" to rest, to reflection, to renewal.

As we journey through this winter together, know that I'm here cheering you on. Whether it's through acupuncture, lymphatic drainage, or any of my other treatments, I am here to support you in your wellness journey.

Here's to finding joy in the quiet, strength in the stillness, and renewal in the rest. Because when summer comes around (and it will!), you'll be ready to shine your brightest.

Latest blog post
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​Comforting White Bean Soup with Pancetta and Parmesan​

As the winter chill settles in, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to nourish both body and soul. Today, I'm excited to share my recipe for a White Bean Soup with Pancetta and Parmesan that's not just delicious, but also packed with healing properties.

The Power of Soup in Chinese Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we believe warm, easily digestible foods like soup strengthen the digestive system and nourish the body deeply. This recipe combines beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a balanced meal that:

• Supports digestive health
• Provides sustained energy
• Boosts immunity
• Reduces stress and promotes relaxation

Star Ingredients and Their Benefits

White Beans: Rich in fiber and protein, they stabilize blood sugar and provide sustained energy.

Pancetta: Adds savory depth and protein without overwhelming the dish.

Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and bay leaves aid digestion and add complexity to the flavor profile.

Quick and Easy Recipe

Here's a simplified version of the recipe:

1. Crisp pancetta in olive oil
2. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic
3. Add beans, tomatoes, broth, and herbs
4. Simmer for 30-40 minutes
5. Blend a portion for creaminess
6. Season and serve with Parmesan

Make It Your Own

Feel free to customize the recipe:

• Make it vegetarian by omitting pancetta
• Add extra veggies like kale or spinach
• Adjust consistency by blending more or less

Remember, cooking is about intuition and personal taste. Trust yourself in the kitchen!

The Joy of Nourishing Yourself

Creating nourishing food is an act of self-care. As you make this soup, take time to appreciate the process. Notice the aromas, colors, and textures. This mindful approach can make cooking both meditative and joyful.

Good health starts in the kitchen. With simple, wholesome ingredients and a little time, you can create meals that support your wellbeing on multiple levels.

Yes, you can cook food that's both delicious and healing!

​Find the full recipe here →​

What I'm reading
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​BMI Sidelined in New Obesity Definition That Favors Health Evaluation​

I've been reading about some research that's creating waves in the medical community. It's all about a groundbreaking approach to understanding and addressing obesity that beautifully bridges Western and Eastern medicinal philosophies.

This exciting development is expanding our view of holistic health, aligning perfectly with the comprehensive, individualized care I've always championed. It's a refreshing shift that recognizes the complexity of health beyond just numbers on a scale!

A New Approach to Obesity

Researchers are proposing a revolutionary way to define obesity:

• Moving away from the one-size-fits-all BMI approach
• Focusing on how excess body fat affects overall health
• Introducing two categories: preclinical and clinical obesity

This holistic view resonates deeply with my philosophy of individualized care, which has always emphasized:

• Each person's unique body constitution
• The importance of balance and harmony within the body
• The interconnectedness of body systems

Why This Matters

This shift could lead to:

1. More personalized treatment plans
2. Better prevention strategies
3. Reduced stigma around weight

It's a game-changer that acknowledges what I've long practiced in my clinic - true health is about more than just one data point.

Personalized Care is Key

This new approach in Western medicine is a step towards the holistic understanding I've always advocated for. It recognizes that obesity is complex and can't be defined by a single measurement.

Remember, no two people are the same. We have to look at each patient individually, considering factors like:

• Overall health markers
• Lifestyle and daily activities
• Personal health history
• Emotional history

Here's the full article​

Stay cozy, stay nourished, and remember – you've got this!

Dr. Cat 🥰

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Dr. Catherine

Do you have a question you want me to answer? Any wellness challenges you want me to write about? Send them my way, I love hearing from you. Say hi 👋🏻 on Instagram, X, LinkedIn or TikTok I share in those places too.

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© 2024 Dr. Catherine On Wellness. This content may convey general information related to medical conditions, research, testing, treatment, and other healthcare topics. Any such information is provided for informational purposes only. You should always consult a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice or information about diagnosis and treatment.