Hey Reader,

By the middle of last February, I felt like I was going to explode.

My work schedule had ramped up right alongside the holidays, and I thought the pressure would let up in the new year, but it took a lot longer for me to recover than expected.

In hindsight, I should’ve known better—especially as a Chinese medicine practitioner.

The classic texts make it very clear: From late autumn through winter, we’re meant to do less.

Nature gets quiet and rests more when the weather is cold, and, **NEWSFLASH** We don’t just live alongside nature. We are part of it. So now is the time to conserve energy and build up your internal stores as much as you can.

Did someone forward you this email?

Don't do what I did, Reader.

If you want to feel like the best version of yourself as we roll into 2025, this is how:

Say “no” to everything non-essential.

With so many special activities, it’s really easy to overbook yourself this time of year. But you can’t enjoy any of it if you’re stressed and overstretched, so be extra-scrupulous and honest with yourself, and say “no” to anything that will drain your cup more than it fills.

Build meals around protein and fiber.

You need all the fortitude you can get right now, and nutrients are your central reserve. As much as you can, aim to get 20-30g of protein at every meal, and fill the rest of your plate with fiber-rich vegetables. If you build your meals around what your body needs, the occasional festive indulgence will be a lot easier on your system.

Go to bed earlier.

Most women need between 8-10 hours of sleep every night, veering toward the upper end around winter solstice when daylight is less abundant. Give your mind and body the chance to detox and restore by shifting your sleep schedule earlier during the darker months. Remember: You’re not being lazy! You’re giving yourself the energy you need.

Bundle up and move your body outside.

Even when the weather is frigid, your mind and body need movement, natural sunlight, and fresh air to function properly. Pull on those layers and go for a brisk walk in the morning and evening, and enjoy some outdoor sports when you can. Your hormones will thank you when you do.

Book weekly self-care retreats.

Whether you just have an hour or you’re lucky enough to be able to get away for a whole afternoon, set aside time to take care of yourself every week. (Acupuncture, bodywork, yoga classes, and saunas are extra-lovely this time of year!) Get started here.

Use herbal medicine to give you extra support.

Herbal medicine isn’t the same as taking supplements, though those can be helpful too.

Personalized herbal formulas prescribed at The Embodied Wellness Studio are designed to help you heal the root of imbalance on a fundamental energetic and cellular level, so uncomfortable symptoms like insomnia, mood swings, and digestive trouble don’t get in the way of your holiday fun.

And if you're struggling with jaw pain, headaches, or nervous system overload, I want to share a local resource with you:

My friend Becky (The TMJ Chiro) offers sessions that focus on the jaw and nervous system, and incorporates a gentle mix of chiropractic techniques (no pops), Craniosacral Therapy and Myofascial release.

She's INCREDIBLE at what she does.

As you can imagine, I'm very picky about bodywork treatments, and Becky is one of the few practitioners who genuinely impresses me with her level of skill.

Plus, she's super generous.

Becky is offering $50 off new client appointments through the end of the year with the code KATERINA.

(This discount is HUGE, don't miss out!)

Check her out here or subscribe to her newsletter for weekly tips on how to heal your body.
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We can’t wait to see where this takes you!

Warmly,

Founder and Acupuncturist at The Embodied Wellness Studio​

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PS. Big news about insurance at The Embodied Wellness Studio!

We are now in-network with the following companies:

• American Specialty Health Group (ASH)
• Aetna
• Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Sheild
• ChooseHealthy Program
• Cigna Healthcare
• Health Net Health Plan of Oregon
• Kaiser
• Providence Health Plan
• Wellcare by Health Net

Don't see your insurance listed? There's another way.

We can provide you with a super bill to give to your insurance company for out-of-network compensation, so you don't have to worry about paying for the full cost of treatments.

Most insurance companies in Oregon include at least 12 acupuncture visits per year, so check your benefits now before the year is over!

Feel free to email us with any questions.