HE ALTH & HE ALIN G


hibernating and having sex, which spells UTIs for many women. To avoid and treat bladder infections and optimise kidney function, include unsweetened cranberry juice (which prevents the adherence of bacterial to the mucosal lining of the urethra and bladder) and herbs like nettle leaves (Urtica dioica), juniper berries (Juniperus communis), dandelion leaves (Taraxacum officinale), flaxseed, marshmallow root (Althea officinalis), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum), and cornsilk (Zea mays) (2). Anti-inflammatory foods and herbs.


To keep colds, sluggish digestion, and achy joints at bay, enjoy lots of fruits, vegetables, fish, legumes, and whole grains in place of excess inflammatory meat-based foods. Go for anti-inflammatory bioflavonoids (e.g. quercitin), Vitamins C and E, and zinc for antioxidant support. Botanicals like turmeric (Curcuma longa) and ginger (Zingiber officinale) support arthritic joints, and also assist digestion. Although dairy is best reduced in the winter months, a cup of hot golden milk (see recipe) before bed can help to encourage sound sleep and should not be overly congesting. Bitter herbs harbour the strongest


bitter qualities of any edible plant, and get the digestion primed for heavier winter meals. Common examples are burdock root (Arctium lappa), dandelion leaves and root (Taraxacum officinale), horsetail (Equisetum arvense), gentian (Gentiana lutea) and the King of Bitters, andrographis (Andrographis


paniculata) – which also acts as a powerful immune-strengthener (2). Be sure to respect these herbs, however, as all bitters have a cooling quality and can aggravate an already cold condition in winter. Using bitter herbs in combination with warming herbs such as ginger can counteract their cooling qualities. Consult an experienced naturopath or herbalist to get an individualised herbal tincture made up to support you through the winter. Sunshine for vitamin D, which


enhances immune system activity and keeps SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) at bay. Vitamin D also regulates levels of calcium and phosphorus in the body, and improves bone health.


Quick Golden


Milk Recipe 2 cups almond milk (you can also use organic cow’s milk or other milk substitutes such as hemp milk, coconut milk, rice milk or oat milk)


1 teaspoon of organic ground turmeric (or as much as you can handle – I love my turmeric!)


A touch of freshly cracked black pepper


½ a teaspoon of unrefined, cold pressed oil coconut oil (you can also use sesame oil or sweet almond oil)


Honey to taste (or use another natural sweetener such as maple syrup, stevia)


Place milk, turmeric and black pepper into a little pot and cook on medium heat. Heat the mixture until steaming but not boiling, which can destroy the active ingredient curcumin. Remove from heat. When the drink cools down, add honey and oil. The oil supplies you with healthy fats and further increases turmeric absorption. This anti- inflammatory drink is perfect on a cold winter’s night, helps with joint lubrication and promotes healthy digestive function.


If you feel adventurous, try adding a dash of cinnamon or chilli in addition to the turmeric and black pepper!


20 JULY 2016


Aerobic exercise that heats the body and stimulates circulation, and hatha yoga to keep muscles loose and joints lubricated.


Although winter is a season of energetic stillness, it doesn’t mean we stand still, or that we do not exercise our bodies. Quite the contrary – it is even more important to move our bodies in winter than in summer – but we need to build in times for proper rest, too. Rather than hide away in central heating and stuffy gyms, try long walks or choose to exercise outdoors to stimulate the senses. Emotional release of fear. According


to the ancient Chinese system, the kidneys are said to hold fear. Winter is a fine time to make yourself feel safe and secure, and even to work on your deeper fears. Meditation and prayer can be wonderfully soothing to the mind and soul, and help us to accept and move beyond our fears. n


Casey Conroy is a holistic dietitian, nutritionist, naturopath in-training, yoga and AcroYoga teacher who specialises in women’s


health and ‘non-diet’ approaches to weight management. She is the founder of Funky Forest Health & Wellbeing on the Gold Coast, and she loves making and eating raw chocolate.


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