Eat Warm, Cooked Foods

One of the best things you can do for your digestion is to eat warm, cooked foods. In TCM, raw and cold foods (like salads, smoothies, and iced drinks) can weaken the Stomach and Spleen, making digestion more sluggish. By choosing cooked foods—soups, stews, and warm grains—you’re making it easier for your body to break everything down. Think of your Stomach as a pot on the stove; it needs warmth to cook and process the nutrients you take in.

Eat Regularly and Avoid Overeating

Your Spleen loves rhythm and routine. Try to eat meals at regular times and avoid overeating. If you skip meals, snack erratically, or overindulge, it can throw your digestion off balance. Regular meal times help your body expect food, and it gives your Stomach and Spleen the time to do their jobs properly. Keep your portions moderate so you don’t overwhelm your digestive system. It’s all about balance!

Chew Slowly and Mindfully

Mindful eating is huge in TCM. When you slow down and chew your food well, you're actually kick-starting the digestive process before the food even reaches your stomach. It gives your body a head start, making digestion smoother and more efficient. Plus, taking time to enjoy your food helps reduce stress, which is another bonus for your digestion. So, savour your meals, relax, and let your body do its thing.

Avoid Damp-Forming Foods

In TCM, some foods create what we call “dampness,” which can bog down your Stomach and Spleen, leading to bloating, sluggish digestion, and even loose stools. Foods like dairy, greasy or fried foods, and too much sugar can create this dampness. Try to limit these in your diet and focus on lighter, easy-to-digest foods like steamed vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.

Stay Warm and Rested

Keeping your body warm isn’t just about eating warm foods—it’s also about avoiding external cold. Keep your body warm, especially your abdomen, which houses your digestive organs. In TCM, the cold can weaken your digestive fire. So, cozy up in colder weather and don’t walk around barefoot on cold floors (sounds small, but it makes a big difference!).

Also, rest is crucial. When you're tired, your digestion becomes sluggish because the body lacks the energy it needs to process food efficiently. Prioritise good sleep and take breaks during the day to keep your energy levels steady.

Acupressure and Acupuncture

for Digestive Health

Acupressure and acupuncture are both fantastic ways to support digestion and rebalance your Stomach and Spleen. There are specific points I use with my clients that help move stagnant energy, reduce bloating, and boost the digestive process. If you're feeling bloated, you can try a bit of acupressure at home by gently pressing the area three finger-widths below your kneecap, on the outer side of your shin (this point is called Stomach 36). It’s a powerful point to strengthen digestion and boost energy. If you're unsure, feel free to reach out, and I can guide you through it.

By making a few small changes to your daily habits—like eating warm foods, avoiding damp-forming foods, and being mindful during meals—you’ll start to see improvements in your digestion. These TCM principles are all about working with your body to create balance, so you can feel better from the inside out.

Heal well, Jude