We’ve been battling lingering dry coughs in our house lately—the kind that leave your throat feeling scratchy and restless.The weather has been all over the place, so today, I reached for a remedy from my childhood: Snow Fungus Dessert Soup (糖水). What Is Snow Fungus Dessert Soup? It’s a light, slightly sweet Chinese dessert soup (糖水) made with …
Breaking Free from Food Rules, Finding True Nourishment
I used to think “eating healthy” meant following a long list of strict rules: no carbs after 6, drink this before that, no more than 1,200 calories a day, count every gram of protein, fat, and carb and definitely no dessert unless it was made with dates and almond flour. I tried almost everything. Some …
Understanding TCM Body Constitutions: A Beginner’s Perspective
I was born and raised in Canada, but growing up in a Chinese household, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was always present in my life, thanks to my mom. Whenever we were sick, it wasn’t Tylenol or the usual Western remedies. Instead, my mom would brew up some bitter herbal tea that, to be honest, tasted …
A Year of Letting Go and Finding Balance
This past year has been a journey of high highs and some very real lows. Life was beautiful and busy—baseball tournaments, family travel, and a big trip to Japan. I have to admit I let loose with food, didn’t always make the best choices, and definitely didn’t get the rest I needed. Jet lag, travel stress, and …
Eating Well in Winter: TCM’s Guide to Staying Warm and Nourished
Winter’s officially here, and let’s be honest – who doesn’t crave a cozy, warm bowl of something comforting? But it’s more than just satisfying those cravings. What we eat this time of year can seriously impact how we feel. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), winter is all about holding onto your energy, supercharging your immune system, …
My Journey Back To Me
Sometimes, it takes a change of scenery to truly see yourself again. Our trip to Japan was supposed to be about family time, exploring, and making memories – and it definitely was. But what I didn’t expect was how much it would open my eyes again. Over the years, I’ve had little moments here and …
Fall Wellness: TCM Tips for Nourishing Body and Spirit
Fall is a time of change. The air cools, the leaves turn beautiful shades of orange and gold, and everything feels a little slower and more reflective. In TCM, fall is the season that corresponds with the lungs and metal element and it’s all about nourishing your body, mind, and spirit as we transition from …
Sweet Moments in Hokkaido
If you’ve ever been to Hokkaido—or even just had it on your travel wishlist—you’ve probably heard people go on and on about the food, especially the ice cream. Honestly, I used to wonder what the big deal was. But after trying it myself? I totally get it now. There is dairy, and then there is Hokkaido dairy. …
A Sweet Summer in Hakodate
This summer, we had the chance to visit Hakodate, and it turned out to be such a memorable trip for so many reasons. One of the best parts? Getting to enjoy Snaffles’ famous cheesecakes again after so many years. Twelve years ago, I had my first taste of Japanese cheesecake from Snaffles and I instantly …
Summer Foods to Keep You Cool and Balanced, TCM Style
Summer is officially here, and you can feel it everywhere—longer days, sunshine, and that heat that just screams for ice-cold drinks. But here’s the thing: in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), cooling off isn’t just about chugging ice water. It’s actually about internal balance—using foods that naturally help you feel light, refreshed, and grounded through the summer …
Nourishing Your Body: The Best Foods to Eat in Spring According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Spring’s that time of year when everything starts to shake off the winter slowdown. Nature wakes up -plants start growing again, animals come out of hibernation, and we feel that shift too. Maybe there’s a bit of winter weight or sluggishness hanging around, but as the days get warmer, we’re naturally pulled outside, craving movement …
Velvety Leek and Potato Soup
Today’s one of those blustery, snowy days that just screams “stay inside!” So, that’s exactly what I’m doing, and I’m whipping up some homemade soup. And really, what’s more comforting than a classic Leek and Potato Soup? It’s creamy, earthy, and just overflowing with cozy vibes. Simplicity and Health Benefits of Homemade Soup Making soup …
Embrace the Dark Side
We always hear about “eating the rainbow,” but today I want to shine a light on the most underrated part of the spectrum: Black Foods. These dark foods are more than just a unique addition to your dinner plate; they offer a lot of value when it comes to both flavour and nutrition. I like to …
Navigating Rising Costs: Budgeting for Healthy Eating
As we grapple with the economic challenges of rising costs, maintaining a healthy diet might seem like an unattainable luxury for many. Meal planning is a super handy way to eat healthy without overspending. I’ve definitely had my moments of struggle, but over the past year, I’ve made a real effort to focus on planning …
Hearty Eats: Braised Short Rib Ragù
Braised short ribs might just be one of my all-time favourite comfort meals. They’re rich, hearty, and exactly what you need on a cozy night in. What I love most is that while they feel fancy, the process is actually very simple. You just let them slow-cook on the stove (or in the oven), and the result …