Magnesium Mystery: Are You Taking the Right Form of Magnesium?
Today

Magnesium has become one of the most talked-about minerals in the wellness world — and for good reason. It plays a critical role in over 300 bodily functions, from supporting muscle and nerve health to regulating blood sugar and strengthening bones.

With modern diets often falling short in magnesium-rich foods, many people are turning to supplements. But here’s where it gets tricky — not all magnesium supplements are created equal. The type of magnesium you choose can dramatically affect how you feel and whether your symptoms improve… or get worse.

That’s why understanding the different forms of magnesium is key — and exactly what we guide clients through at Christos’ clinic.

Let’s break down the most common forms and their unique benefits: ⸻

🧘 Magnesium Glycinate

Ideal for people dealing with stress, poor sleep, or anxiety. This form is bonded to glycine, an amino acid with calming effects. It’s gentle on the stomach, making it a favourite for anyone with digestive sensitivities.

⚡ Magnesium Malate

Perfect if you’re feeling drained or struggling with fatigue. Magnesium malate includes malic acid, which supports energy production in the body — great for muscle recovery and day-to-day vitality.

🧠 Magnesium Threonate

The brain booster. Magnesium threonate is one of the few forms that can cross the blood-brain barrier, making it ideal for those looking to support memory, focus, and long-term cognitive health.

🔥 Magnesium Oxide

Commonly found in over-the-counter supplements, magnesium oxide is often used for digestive issues like indigestion or heartburn. However, its absorption rate is lower, meaning it might not be the best for addressing full-body magnesium deficiency.

🚽 Magnesium Citrate

This one’s well-known for its laxative effect. It’s useful for relieving constipation and quickly replenishing magnesium, but in higher doses, it can send you running to the bathroom — literally. 

The Bottom Line?

Choosing the wrong type of magnesium can leave you frustrated, uncomfortable, and still dealing with the very issues you were trying to fix. That’s why we take a tailored approach at Christos’ clinic, helping you understand your body’s specific needs before recommending any supplements.

Whether you’re struggling with energy, sleep, mood, digestion, or general well-being — there is a magnesium for that.

Not sure which magnesium is right for you? Book a consultation with Christos at NE Naturopathic Group through the website.
Let’s take the guesswork out of your health — and give your body the support it’s asking for.

Quick Magnesium Match-Up:
• Glycinate – Calming & gut-friendly 🍃
• Malate – Energy & muscle support ⚡
• Threonate – Brain health & memory 🧠
• Oxide – Digestive relief, but low absorption 🔥
• Citrate – Digestive support (and laxative in high doses) 

Understanding your body’s unique needs — and matching them with the right form of magnesium — can be the missing link in unlocking better energy, deeper sleep, and more vibrant health. Read More…

🥣 Winter Immunity in a Bowl: Garlic, Mushroom & Thyme Soup
25 Jul

When the cold sets in, your body starts asking for a little extra support — and nothing says comfort and immunity quite like a warm bowl of nourishing soup.

This Garlic, Mushroom & Thyme Soup isn’t just delicious — it’s a naturopath’s winter essential.
Packed with immune-boosting ingredients and soothing herbal support, it’s designed to help your body fight off colds, reduce inflammation, and restore vitality from the inside out.

🌿 Why This Soup Supports Your Immune System

Each ingredient brings its own therapeutic power. Here's why this soup does more than warm you up:

🍄 Mushrooms (Shiitake, Oyster, Button)

Medicinal mushrooms are a staple in immune-modulating support.

• They contain beta-glucans, naturally occurring polysaccharides that stimulate and balance immune responses.
  
  
• Shiitake and oyster mushrooms are also rich in antioxidants and vitamin D, both essential for healthy immune function.
  
  
• Unlike immune stimulants that rev up your system temporarily, these mushrooms help regulate immunity — making them ideal for long-term resilience.

🧄 Garlic

Garlic is one of nature’s most powerful broad-spectrum antimicrobials.

• It contains allicin, a sulphur compound that has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal effects.
  
  
• Garlic also supports the body’s detoxification pathways, especially the liver, and helps thin mucus if you're congested.
  
  
• Regular garlic intake is linked with reduced frequency and duration of colds — making it a true winter hero.

🌿 Thyme

Thyme isn’t just a fragrant herb — it’s a traditional remedy for respiratory health.

• It acts as a natural expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and ease coughing.
  
  
• Thyme also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for irritated sinuses, sore throats, or lingering chest infections.
  
  
• It supports the lungs and gently tones the immune system.

🥥 Coconut Milk

Coconut milk adds more than creaminess.

• It provides healthy saturated fats that help your body absorb fat-soluble nutrients like vitamin D, A, E, and K.
  
  
• It contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties and supports gut health — a key player in overall immunity.
  
  
• Plus, the richness makes the soup satisfying and nourishing without being heavy.
  

🍲 Recipe: Garlic, Mushroom & Thyme Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
  
  
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
  
  
• 1 onion, diced
  
  
• 2 cups mushrooms (shiitake, oyster, or button)
  
  
• 1 tsp dried thyme
  
  
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken stock
  
  
• 1 can coconut milk
  
  
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft and fragrant.
   
   
2. Add mushrooms and thyme, and cook until mushrooms begin to soften.
   
   
3. Pour in stock and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10–15 minutes.
   
   
4. Stir in the coconut milk, season to taste, and serve warm.

✨ Make It Your Own

Want to customise? Try adding:

• A handful of spinach or kale in the final few minutes for extra greens.
  
  
• Fresh parsley or chives as a garnish.
  
  
• A dash of cayenne for circulation and added immune kick.

❄️ Your Winter Wellness Ritual

This soup is more than a recipe — it's an invitation to slow down, nourish deeply, and support your immune system with every spoonful. When we choose food that’s functional and delicious, healing becomes a daily habit.

Let us know if you try it! Share your version in the comments or tag us on social media. We love seeing your kitchen creations.

Stay warm, stay well 💚
– Christos
Read More…

What’s Your Body Trying to Tell You? 5 Subtle Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
20 Jul

Have you ever had that gut feeling that something’s off — but you couldn’t quite put your finger on it?

Over the years in clinic, I’ve learned that our bodies are constantly talking to us. Not always with loud pain or dramatic symptoms — sometimes with gentle nudges, whispers even. A craving here. A bit of fatigue there. A small skin flare or a change in mood.

And if we learn to listen early, we can support the body before those whispers turn into shouts.

So today, I want to walk you through 5 subtle signs I see all the time — signs that your body might be asking for a bit more love, nourishment, or reset.


1. You Wake Up Tired — Even After 7 or 8 Hours of Sleep

If you’re waking up feeling like you’ve barely slept, that’s not normal — even if it’s become common. Constant morning fatigue could be a sign that your body is struggling to regulate cortisol (your stress hormone), or that your detox pathways are congested.

💡Try this:

• Start your day with warm water and a squeeze of lemon or 1 tsp apple cider vinegar.
• Cut back on stimulants like coffee for a few days and replace them with herbal teas like nettle or dandelion.
• Support your adrenals with magnesium-rich foods (like leafy greens and seeds) and consider short morning walks in natural light to reset your circadian rhythm.

2. You’re Craving Sugar or Salt More Than Usual

Cravings are not about weakness — they’re communication. If you’re constantly reaching for sweet or salty snacks, your body could be calling out for minerals, blood sugar stability, or adrenal support.

💡Try this:

• Add a pinch of sea salt and a squeeze of lemon to your water for a simple mineral boost.
• Include protein, healthy fats, and fibre at every meal to keep your blood sugar stable.
• Craving chocolate? It might be a sign of low magnesium! Try adding raw cacao, almonds, or pumpkin seeds into your diet.

3. Your Skin is Breaking Out, Itchy, or Inflamed

Your skin is your largest elimination organ — and when your gut or liver is overloaded, it often shows up on the skin. Acne, rashes, or eczema can be signs of inflammation or internal imbalance.

💡Try this:

• Start with the gut: avoid processed foods, reduce dairy/sugar, and eat more fermented foods like sauerkraut or coconut kefir.
• Consider a gentle detox: even a 3-day juice fast or herbal cleanse can make a world of difference.
• Drink 1.5–2L of clean, filtered water per day to help your lymphatic system flush toxins more effectively.

4. You Get Bloated After Eating

Bloating is one of the most common complaints I hear — and while it’s become “normal,” it’s not healthy. It’s often a sign that your digestive fire is sluggish, you’re not producing enough enzymes, or there’s an imbalance in your gut microbiome.

💡Try this:

• Eat slowly and chew thoroughly — digestion begins in the mouth.
• Add a few drops of herbal bitters or sip ginger tea 15 minutes before meals.
• Avoid drinking large amounts of cold water during meals, which can dilute stomach acid.

5. You Feel ‘Wired but Tired’ at Night

If your mind is racing but your body’s exhausted at bedtime, it’s a red flag for nervous system overload and possible cortisol dysregulation. This can eventually lead to burnout, poor sleep, and even hormone imbalances.

💡Try this:

• Switch off screens at least an hour before bed and dim the lights to help melatonin production.
• Use magnesium (glycinate is gentle and effective) or calming herbs like passionflower, lemon balm, or lavender.
• Do a 5-minute breathing exercise or legs-up-the-wall pose before bed to calm the nervous system.

Final Thoughts: Your Body’s Language is Subtle — But Powerful

I often say: your body never betrays you. It’s always working hard to bring you back into balance — even when it doesn't feel that way.

The key is learning to tune in early, take small steps consistently, and support the body with gentle, natural tools. That’s what holistic health is all about — listening, not forcing. Nourishing, not punishing.

If any of these signs feel familiar to you, it might be time for a little health check-in. The good news? You don’t need to wait until something is “really wrong” to take action.

🌿 If you’re ready to understand what your body is trying to tell you and want support, feel free to book an appointment with me here — either in person or online. I’d be honoured to guide you through it.

To your wellness,
Christos
Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist

Read More…

Understanding Pain: Natural Remedies and Bowen Therapy
11 Jul

Pain. It’s something we’ve all experienced—sometimes fleeting, sometimes persistent—but always a message. It’s our body’s way of saying, “Hey, something needs attention here.”

Understanding pain—what triggers it, how it lingers, and how we can support the body through it—can be life-changing. And the good news? There are gentle, natural ways to reduce pain and inflammation that don’t rely on harsh medications or invasive treatments.

In this post, I want to explore two of my favourite tools for pain relief: natural remedies and Bowen Therapy—a powerful combination that I’ve seen change lives in my clinic over and over again.

🌿 Start with Prevention: Support the Body Before Pain Starts

The best place to begin? Prevention. Many of the chronic pain conditions we see today have roots in inflammation—something we can influence daily with our choices. Here are a few key habits that make a big difference:

• Eat anti-inflammatory foods – Think berries, leafy greens, turmeric, oily fish like salmon, flaxseeds, and chia. These foods help calm inflammation before it turns into pain.
  
  
• Stay hydrated – Dehydration makes everything feel tighter and more reactive. Good hydration is like oiling the hinges of your joints.
  
  
• Keep moving – Gentle, consistent movement keeps the body fluid and helps circulation. Even a walk in nature does wonders.

🌿 Nature’s Medicine Cabinet: Herbs for Pain Relief

We’ve been using plants for healing for thousands of years—and for good reason.

• Turmeric is a standout for joint and muscle pain thanks to curcumin, its active compound. It helps reduce inflammation at the root.
  
  
• Ginger isn’t just good for digestion—it’s a natural pain reliever too. Great in tea, meals, or as a supplement.
  
  
• Magnesium is often overlooked but can ease tight muscles, headaches, and even nerve pain. Magnesium baths or powders can be a great addition to your routine.
  
  

These remedies work beautifully alongside other treatments and can be especially helpful for long-term wellness.

🌿 Bowen Therapy: Gentle, Profound, and Powerful

This is where Bowen Therapy comes in—and if you haven’t experienced it yet, let me say, it’s one of the gentlest and most profound tools I use in clinic. Bowen Therapy uses subtle, rolling movements over specific points on the body. These moves help reset the nervous system, relax tight fascia, and allow the body to recalibrate and begin healing itself. What I love about Bowen is:

• It’s non-invasive and incredibly gentle (no cracking, pressing, or force).
  
  
• It’s safe for all ages—from newborns to the elderly.
  
  
• It works with the whole body, not just the site of pain.

Clients come in for back pain, migraines, joint issues, or even pain related to emotional stress—and often leave with a surprising sense of calm and ease that goes beyond the physical.

🌿 A Holistic Approach to Healing

Pain shouldn’t be something we just put up with. It’s our body’s way of asking for care.

By combining nutrient-rich food, natural remedies, and Bowen Therapy, we can support the body to heal in a way that’s gentle, empowering, and deeply effective.

You don’t have to wait for things to get worse. Often, small changes make the biggest difference—especially when they’re consistent.

If you’re navigating persistent pain or simply want to support your body in more natural ways, I invite you to explore Bowen Therapy and the healing power of nature. You might just be

surprised at how much better you can feel—without the struggle.

Let’s help your body feel safe, supported, and ready to thrive.

By Christos
Read More…

Feeling Flat? Bloated? Just Not Yourself?
5 Jul

Let’s talk juice fasting.

If you’ve ever wondered whether fasting is just another health trend or something truly helpful, you’re not alone. I get asked about it all the time.

And honestly? I understand the confusion.

There’s a lot of conflicting information out there.

➡️ “Isn’t it just starving yourself?”

➡️ “Won’t I lose nutrients?”

➡️ “Wouldn’t it be better to just eat the fruit or veg whole?”

Let’s break this down together, not from hype, but from what I’ve seen firsthand in my own life, and clinic.

⸻

Why I Stand Behind Juice Fasting

Here’s the short version:

Juice fasting works.

Not as a diet. Not as a punishment.

But as a healing reset.

And it’s not new. It’s ancient.

When animals are sick, they stop eating. They rest. The body knows, it needs to use its energy to repair, not digest.

Juice fasting simply taps into this same wisdom. It gives your body space to catch its breath and focus on the healing process.

⸻

Wait, Don’t I Need Fibre?

Yes, fibre is important.

But in a juice fast, we’re not aiming to stimulate the gut; we’re giving it a holiday.

Removing fibre for a few days allows your digestive system to rest, while the nutrients still flow in, big time.

Fresh vegetable and fruit juices are rich in:

• Vitamins and minerals

• Enzymes

• Antioxidants

• Cellular hydration

• And life force

You’d never be able to eat the amount of nutrients you can drink during a juice fast. And more importantly, you wouldn’t be absorbing it in the same way.

⸻

“But Will I Get Enough Nutrients?”

Great question. And yes, in fact, you might absorb more.

Juice fasting gives the digestive system a break, which means your body doesn’t have to work so hard to access the goodness.

That’s why people often feel clearer, calmer, and more vibrant during and after a fast.

It’s not about starving, it’s about simplifying.

⸻

Fasting & Metabolism: Busting the Myth

You may have heard that fasting slows metabolism.

Done incorrectly? Sure.

But when guided well, it helps rebalance metabolism.

It teaches your body how to:

✅ Burn fat more efficiently

✅ Reset hormones

✅ Clean up inflammation

✅ And return to natural rhythms

It’s like hitting the “reset” button on your internal systems.

⸻

A Secret Bonus: Cravings Shift

This is one of the parts I love most.

After a juice fast, people often tell me, “I don’t even want the sugary or heavy stuff anymore.”

Juice fasting doesn’t just shift your physical health; it resets cravings.

It’s a circuit breaker.

An invitation to build a better relationship with food… and with your body.

⸻

One Last Thing — The Exit Matters

What you eat after your juice fast is just as important as the fast itself.

Start with:

• Juicy fruits

• Steamed veg

• Gentle, whole foods

Avoid jumping back into processed or heavy meals; your body will thank you.

And the truth is, most people don’t want to go back to old habits. They feel too good.

⸻

So… Is It Right for You?

If you’re feeling:

🔹 Sluggish

🔹 Inflamed

🔹 Foggy

🔹 Stuck in unhelpful eating cycles

…then juice fasting might be a gentle, powerful next step.

I’ve seen it help people reclaim energy, clear skin, improve sleep and feel more themselves again.

If you’re curious or want a bit of guidance, I’m here. This is the work I love.

⸻

With vitality and warmth,

Christos

⸻

Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist

For appointments or consultations, visit: North East Naturopathic Group

To explore my courses, head to: christosmili.org.au
Read More…

What’s Really Causing Psoriasis (and Eczema)?
27 Jun

I’ve seen a lot of skin conditions in clinic over the years — from dry, itchy rashes and flaking patches to intense flare-ups that make everyday life uncomfortable. And what I’ve come to learn is this:

Conditions like psoriasis and eczema are not just skin deep.

They’re messages — loud ones — from the body asking us to stop, look inward, and reset.

They might look different — eczema is often linked with inflammation, allergies and an overactive immune response, while psoriasis involves rapid skin cell turnover — but the truth is, both often stem from the same root causes: toxicity, inflammation, and internal imbalance.

🔍 Listen to What the Skin Is Saying

In natural medicine, we say that the skin reflects the internal terrain.

When something is off inside — the gut isn’t functioning well, the liver is under pressure, or the immune system is dysregulated — the skin often becomes the messenger.

Dryness, itchiness, thickening, cracking, or redness are all signs that the body is trying to eliminate something or restore balance. And depending on where these symptoms show up, we can even get hints about which organs are struggling — similar to how traditional Chinese medicine uses meridian maps to trace connections throughout the body.

So instead of suppressing symptoms with steroid creams or medications (which I understand may be necessary short term), I always ask:
What is the body trying to say?

Because when we view eczema or psoriasis as signals — rather than just surface-level problems — everything changes.

🌱 Natural Tools to Support Skin Healing from Within

Over the years, I’ve found a few simple, powerful strategies that make a big difference — especially when used consistently.

1. Detoxification and Fasting: Clean from the Inside Out

The number one game-changer I’ve seen for both psoriasis and eczema is detoxing the body gently but deeply — through fasting or a wholefood, anti-inflammatory diet supported by herbs, juices, and hydration.

Our skin is one of our largest detox organs. When the liver and gut are overloaded, toxins often get pushed out through the skin. That’s why giving the body a break — even just a few days — can create space for healing.

In fact, studies from the University of Chicago showed that skin conditions like eczema, acne and psoriasis often clear up during fasting, when the body is supported nutritionally and allowed to rest.

We’ve had many clients go through our 7, 14, and 21-day juice cleanses and report incredible results — reduced inflammation, improved digestion, mental clarity, and dramatically clearer skin. Some have even shared before-and-after photos that speak for themselves.

🧃 If fasting sounds intimidating, start small. A single day of fresh juices or a 3-day focus on smoothies, raw veggies, and broths can already do so much.

👉 For children or anyone sensitive, a full fast might not be appropriate — but a raw, wholefood diet full of fresh fruits, juices, and gentle detox support can still make a real difference.

2. Sunshine: A Natural Immune and Skin Regulator

One of the simplest but most powerful remedies for chronic skin conditions is something free: sunlight.

Sunshine helps the body create Vitamin D, which plays a critical role in balancing immune function, calming inflammation, and supporting healthy skin turnover.

Research has linked low Vitamin D to both psoriasis and eczema. Just 10–15 minutes of sunlight a day can start to shift things. I often get sun exposure between 10 AM and 2 PM, starting gradually and building up to 30–45 minutes when my skin is tanned and strong.

☀️ If you’re in a part of the world with long winters or overcast skies, UV therapy or even occasional use of a solarium can be helpful. It may sound controversial, but the bigger risk I see in clinic is low Vitamin D — not safe, moderate sun exposure.

✨ A tip before sunbathing: use a guasha body scrub to prep the skin and support detoxification, which brings us to the next step.

3. Skin Detox with Guasha, Salt Baths, and Natural Topicals

We often think of skincare as something we apply — but skin healing often starts with what we remove.

Guasha is a technique I use to scrub the skin and help eliminate toxins that build up in the outer layers. I make a simple, old-school scrub from vodka and bicarb soda, which deeply cleanses the skin and helps draw out things like petrochemical residues, yeast, moulds, and even parasites.

After scrubbing, follow with a warm salt bath using Epsom or sea salt, and essential oils like lavender, frankincense, or tea tree. These baths relax the nervous system (important for eczema especially), support the lymphatic system, and allow the skin to breathe again.

🛁 For kids, skip the vodka scrub and go straight to gentle salt baths — they’re safe, calming, and effective.

🌿 You can also support the skin topically with healing balms — made from calendula, chamomile, or chickweed — and internally with herbs like burdock, nettle, or Oregon grape.

🌈 Final Thoughts: There’s Always a Way Forward

Whether you’re struggling with psoriasis, eczema, or a mix of both, remember:

🌀 Your body is not broken.
🌀 The skin is not the enemy.
🌀 And you are not alone.

When you begin to see your skin symptoms as signs of deeper imbalances — and meet them with care, nourishment, and understanding — healing becomes possible.

To recap, here are my top 3 tools for supporting chronic skin conditions naturally:

1. Detox the body — with fasting, raw food, and nourishing juices
   
2. Soak in sunshine — or use UV therapy to stimulate Vitamin D
   
3. Cleanse the skin — with guasha scrubs, healing baths, and gentle topicals
   

These principles are gentle, natural, and suitable for all ages — and they’ve helped countless people in my clinic begin their healing journey with hope and confidence.

If you’d like to learn more, or explore these tools in a step-by-step way, check out the Free Resources section on my website. There’s a whole collection of guides, recipes, and videos waiting for you.

Here’s to vibrant skin, whole-body healing, and listening to your body’s quiet wisdom.

Warmly,
Christos
Read More…

✨ Why Following Your Dreams Is Good for Your Health
13 Jun

Over the years in my clinic, I’ve seen all sorts of health complaints walk through the door—fatigue, burnout, gut issues, brain fog, skin conditions, hormonal imbalances… you name it. But beneath the physical symptoms, there’s often a common thread that doesn’t show up on any blood test:

Disconnection from purpose.
Dreams left behind.
A quiet ache for something more.

I can feel it when people sit down—especially those in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond—when they’ve lived a life of looking after others, doing the right thing, ticking the boxes... but never truly listening to that whisper inside: “There’s something else I want.”

And it’s not just emotional.
That disconnection shows up in the body.


🌱 Your Nervous System Craves Purpose

When you’re not living in alignment with who you really are, your body knows.

You might feel tired all the time, even if your bloodwork is “fine.”

You might have trouble sleeping, feel anxious for no reason, or feel that lingering sense of blah you can’t shake.


That’s your nervous system in a constant state of low-grade stress.

But when you start to move toward your dreams—even if it’s just in small ways—your body responds. Your stress hormones settle. Your breathing deepens. Your digestion improves. Energy flows again. The immune system lifts. Your whole system says: “Thank you for coming home.”


💛 Your Body Knows When You’re Not Being True to Yourself

From a naturopathic perspective, emotional suppression can absolutely contribute to physical illness.

We store what we suppress.

Anger in the liver. Grief in the lungs. Fear in the kidneys.

And unfulfilled potential? That sits heavy in the heart and gut.


When we deny our dreams—when we tell ourselves it’s too late, too selfish, or too hard—we slowly dim our own light. And sometimes, symptoms are just our body’s way of trying to get our attention.


But here’s the good news:
You don’t need to make a massive leap overnight.
You just need to start.


✨ Joy Is a Healing Frequency

One of the most healing things we can do—mentally, emotionally, physically—is to give ourselves permission to feel joy again. To move toward what lights us up. Whether that’s starting a new project, learning something just for you, travelling, dancing (yes, even in the lounge room), writing, teaching, connecting—whatever sets your soul on fire.

And I can tell you this from experience.

For years, I told myself dancing wasn’t “practical.” That it was too late to start. I didn’t have time - if I wasn’t working I had to be with my family. Life was way too busy. But eventually at the age of 52 I had an epiphany while watching my daughter’s dance concert and I said yes - so I joined the local adult dance group and thought that if no one laughed at me I would go back - of course they were wonderful and no one laughed —and now I go to dance classes regularly. I have even done competitions and last January competed in the Nationals Dance comp in Adelaide! I never thought I would do that!

It’s one of the things that fills me with joy and gives me life. I also get to run a business that inspires me daily, working with people who are open, curious, and ready to heal.

I honestly believe that a big part of my good health today comes from saying yes to those parts of myself that I had ignored and  were waiting so long to be lived.

Because when you come alive… you heal.

I’ve seen people come off medications, regulate their hormones, lose weight naturally, improve their sleep, and regain their vitality—not because they found a magic herb, but because they finally started doing what they were here to do.

And they stopped apologising for it.

So here’s your gentle nudge: What’s one dream you’ve put on the shelf?
What’s one step you could take toward it this week?
It could be tiny—researching a course, blocking out an hour for you, picking up the guitar, booking the trip, writing the first sentence of the book.

Your health isn’t separate from your purpose.
Your body wants you to live a full life.
It’s not selfish to follow your dreams—it’s vital. For your spirit. For your health. For your family. For your joy.

Let’s Thrive Together

If this stirred something in you, I’d love to support you further—whether in clinic, in my workshops, or through the Thrive & Flow Pathway for practitioners ready to dream bigger and live lighter.

You deserve a life that feels good in your body and aligned with your heart. Read More…

Why I Chose Natural Medicine: My Journey to Healing & Helping
6 Jun

I didn’t grow up thinking I’d become a naturopath. In fact, like most people, I thought health came in the form of a script from the doctor and a few instructions to “rest and see how it goes.” But somewhere along the line, that never quite sat right with me.

I come from a big Greek family — loud, loving, full of life — and also full of stories passed down from yiayias and aunties who knew what herbs to boil when your stomach hurt, what foods to avoid when you were sick, and how to care for the body like it was sacred. Back then, I didn’t realise how deeply those moments were shaping me. I just knew they worked.



A Turning Point: Asking Bigger Questions

It wasn’t until my late teens that I really began to question what true health meant. I’d watch people I loved bounce between appointments, taking one pill to deal with the side effects of another. They weren’t getting better — they were surviving.
And I didn’t want to just survive. I wanted to understand.

That hunger to understand led me to study Naturopathy. At first, it was overwhelming. Anatomy, biochemistry, herbal pharmacology — it was a lot. But every step I took felt like I was remembering something ancient. Like I was returning to a truth I’d always known, deep down: the body has an incredible capacity to heal, if we learn how to listen.



The Power of Iridology & Bowen Therapy

When I discovered Iridology, I was hooked. The idea that your eyes — those tiny, detailed windows — could reveal what’s going on inside your body and mind? It felt like magic. But it was backed by science, case studies, and years of clinical observation. I started seeing patterns in people’s irises that matched the symptoms they’d been experiencing for years. And more importantly — things would shift once we addressed what the eyes were showing.

Then came Bowen Therapy — a game-changer in every sense. It was so subtle, yet so powerful. I’d perform a few gentle moves, leave the room, and come back to find the client’s body already unwinding layers of tension. It taught me something that still stays with me to this day: the body doesn’t need force. It needs permission.



Healing Isn’t Linear — It’s a Dialogue

Over time, I came to understand that healing isn’t about fixing. It’s about listening.
It’s not linear. It’s layered. And often, it’s less about what we add in — and more about what we take away: stress, toxicity, pressure, perfectionism.

I’ve seen people’s lives change not from the most expensive supplement or the most extreme detox, but from finally understanding the signals their body had been whispering for years.



From Practitioner to Mentor

Now, after 25 years in practice, my passion has deepened in a new direction: helping other practitioners.
There’s so much burnout in the natural health world — so many kind-hearted, smart therapists who are incredible at what they do, but feel overwhelmed trying to build a business. I’ve been there. And I now love guiding them toward more ease, clarity, and confidence — so they can keep doing the work they love without burning out.

I also continue to support families — especially parents who want to keep their kids strong, naturally. I believe education is the foundation. When we understand the body and how to support it early, we change the whole future of a family.



I Chose This Work Because It Chose Me

Natural medicine is not just my job — it’s my calling. It’s the quiet nudge I’ve felt again and again throughout life. It’s in the trust of every client who walks through the door. It’s in the sparkle in someone’s eye when they realise they’re allowed to feel good again.

And that’s why I do what I do. To help people feel empowered. To teach that healing is not about being perfect — it’s about being in relationship with your body. And to remind everyone that the wisdom is already inside them.
I’m just here to help them hear it.



Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist

North East Naturopathic Group

To explore my courses, head to: christosmili.org.au

Read More…

Kombucha: A Naturopath’s View on This Fermented Wonder
30 May

There’s something special about watching a client light up when they find a natural remedy that not only tastes good — but actually makes them feel better. One of those quiet achievers I often come back to in clinic is kombucha.



Now, kombucha isn’t new — it’s been around for centuries, used in various cultures as a health tonic. But it’s only in recent years that it’s made its way into the mainstream: lined up on supermarket shelves, brewed in home kitchens, and poured into trendy glass bottles. But beyond the fizz and flavour is something far more powerful — a living, breathing reminder that nature knows how to heal when we give it the right environment.



🌱 So What Is Kombucha?

Kombucha is made by fermenting tea (usually green or black) with a SCOBY — a Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast. Think of it like a jellyfish-shaped mother culture that floats in your brew and transforms the tea over 7–14 days.


During fermentation, the SCOBY digests the sugar and produces:


Organic acids — like acetic and glucuronic acid — support your body’s natural detox pathways and offer antimicrobial protection.
Antioxidants help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
B vitamins are essential for energy production, mental clarity, and nervous system health.
Probiotics, the beneficial bacteria, help keep your gut happy and your immune system strong.

Every batch is a little different depending on the tea, sugar, and temperature.
That’s part of the magic.

It’s not just a drink — it’s a living culture.


✨ The Potential Health Benefits

As a naturopath, I look for remedies that support the body, rather than override it. Kombucha is one of those supportive, slow-burn healers that can gently nudge you toward better health. Here’s how:


🛡️ Antioxidant Power


Kombucha made with green tea is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants that help protect the body from cell damage. This is particularly helpful in reducing inflammation and boosting immune resilience — especially during stressful times or seasonal transitions.


🦠 Gut Support + Digestive Ease


The probiotics in kombucha can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. And we now know the gut is connected to just about everything — from mood and mental health to energy, hormones, immunity, and skin. A small glass of kombucha can be a beautiful daily gut reset.


💧 Liver Detoxification


Glucuronic acid, one of the organic acids produced during fermentation, binds to toxins and helps the liver excrete them more effectively. This makes kombucha a gentle ally in supporting your body’s natural detox process.


🩺 Blood Sugar Balance


Preliminary research suggests kombucha may help regulate blood sugar levels, especially when brewed with green tea. While more research is needed, the results so far are encouraging — particularly for those managing insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes.


⚠️ A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Like any natural remedy, kombucha isn’t a one-size-fits-all miracle drink. Here are a few things to be mindful of:


Go slow: If you’re new to kombucha, start with a small amount (around 100ml) and notice how your body responds.


🔬 What Does the Research Say?

While kombucha has been loved by traditional cultures for generations, modern science is still catching up. Most of the current studies have been conducted on animals or in lab settings — but they’ve shown promising signs in areas like:



-  Liver detox and enzyme protection

-  Blood sugar regulation

-  Antimicrobial activity

-  Anti-inflammatory and potential anticancer properties

-  Human studies are beginning to emerge, and they’re exciting — but for now, kombucha is best used as a gentle support, not a cure.



🧘 My Advice as a Naturopath

Kombucha isn’t a quick fix. But it’s a beautiful example of how small daily rituals can add up to powerful shifts in health.



When I recommend kombucha, it’s usually as part of a bigger picture: alongside whole foods, rest, movement, and emotional support. I see it as a simple, accessible tonic that reminds us to tune in, slow down, and support our body from the inside out.



And let’s be honest — it’s delicious. Whether you’re brewing your own or buying a trusted brand, kombucha is a great way to reconnect with natural rhythms and nourish your microbiome with every sip.



Have you tried kombucha?

Got a favourite flavour or brewing tip? I’d love to hear your experience. Let’s keep learning and healing together — one glass at a time.



By Christos Miliankos, Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist Read More…

The Story of a Number One Boy
24 May

The Story of a Number One Boy

…and why understanding birth order changed how I see myself — and raised my kids. 👨‍👦

Have you ever wondered why the same parenting approach works wonders with one child but backfires completely with another? 🤷‍♂️ Why your firstborn is a perfectionist, your middle child a fire-cracker 🔥, and your youngest a nature lover? 🌿 The truth is, they’re wired differently — and understanding why can change everything. 💡

One of the most powerful tools I’ve come across in understanding family dynamics is Rayid Birth Order, developed by Denny Johnson from Rayid International. 📚 Unlike traditional birth order theories, Rayid identifies twelve distinct positions — six for boys, six for girls — each with its own unique set of traits, strengths, and emotional challenges. 🧠

I’m what you’d call a textbook “Number One Boy.” And the moment I learned what that meant, a whole lot of my life started making sense. 🪞

Traits of the First Son (Number One Boy)
According to the Rayid model, the first son is often:

• Sensitive and quietly rebellious 😶‍🌫️
  
• Strongly bonded with the mother 🤱
  
• Tends to clash with the father 🧱
  
• Craves freedom and resists pressure 🕊️
  
• Often physically delicate in early years 🍼
  
• Protective, especially of the mother 🛡️
  
• Prone to self-sabotage when pushed too hard ⚠️
  

Reading that list was like someone had handed me a mirror. These weren’t just personality traits — they were emotional patterns I had lived through, often without having the words to describe them. 🧩

My Story: From the Village to the Big City
I was born in a small mountain village in Northern Greece — the first child, first grandchild, and first nephew in my family. 🏔️ To say I was adored is an understatement. My aunties and yiayia (grandmother) treated me like royalty. 👑 I didn’t even learn to walk until I was 16 months old — not because I couldn’t, but because no one ever put me down. I was cradled, cuddled, and carried every moment of the day, and I loved every bit of it. 🥰

But at 3½ years old, everything changed. My father had already moved to Australia to work and support us, and now it was time for my mother and I to follow. ✈️ We left the comfort and warmth of our familiar village life and arrived in cold, concrete Melbourne. 🏙️ I suddenly found myself living with a man I hardly knew — my own father — and I felt completely out of place. Even the postman didn’t know my name. 📭

It was disorienting, heartbreaking, and deeply lonely. 💔

The Emotional Tug-of-War
Starting school was a shock. I didn’t speak a word of English. 🗣️❌ I clung to my mother’s skirt every morning, crying and begging her not to leave me. 😢 That sense of being lost, of not belonging, stayed with me well into my teenage years. I often describe those early years in Australia as living in a fog 🌫️.

I was emotionally fused with my mother. We were close — incredibly close — and I became her little protector. 🛡️ Whenever she and my father fought (which was often), I would instinctively take her side. I felt her pain, carried her stress, and tried to be the support she needed, even though I was just a child. 👦💔

At the same time, my father wanted me to be strong and resilient — to play soccer ⚽, to eat meat 🍖, to toughen up. But I was a vegetarian, not out of principle, but because I couldn’t bear the thought of eating animals I considered my friends. 🐑 Eventually, under pressure, I gave in. But instead of turning into the athlete my father hoped for, I became the chubby Greek boy who made perfect pizza dough — because I loved being in the kitchen with my mum. 🍕👩‍🍳

Finding My Wings
When I turned 16, something inside me changed. I needed to break free. 🕊️ I planned my first solo trip — back to Greece — and in the lead-up, I lost 20 kilos. That trip changed me. ✨ It was my first big step toward independence, and I’ll never forget the feeling of reconnecting with my roots, on my own terms. 🇬🇷

Later, I left Australia to study in America 🇺🇸 and live in Japan 🇯🇵. These moves weren’t just geographical — they were emotional leaps, a way to finally cut the umbilical cord my mother had so tightly wrapped around me. ✂️ I still remember her face at the airport as I left. “I hope this is the last time you do this to us,” she said, tearfully. 😢 Her guilt was strong, but my need to grow was stronger. 💪

The Role Never Leaves You
Even with two younger siblings — my sister Jenny, five years younger, and my brother George, ten years younger — I always felt like the third parent. 👨‍👩‍👧 Especially with George, who was born with Cystic fibrosis. When I was just 10, I was already helping take care of him during the overlap between my parents’ shift work. 🩺 I took it seriously. That protective instinct, that sense of responsibility — it’s always been with me. ❤️

Even now, as adults, we share a deep bond. 🤝 And even now, I’m still that Number One Boy — fiercely loyal, emotionally intuitive, and grounded in family. 🧬

How Rayid Birth Order Helps Families Thrive
Discovering Rayid Birth Order helped me make sense of my childhood, my family relationships, and the patterns I kept repeating. 🔁 But more than that — it transformed how I raise my own kids. 👨‍👧‍👦

I’m a dad to five incredible children, each with their own rhythms, needs, and quirks. 🌈 What works for one completely backfires on another. Some thrive with freedom, others need clear boundaries. Some express everything outwardly, others process quietly and deeply. 🌊

Understanding their birth order positions was like being handed a key to their emotional worlds. 🔑

It taught me this powerful truth:
I don’t have to treat them all the same.
In fact — I shouldn’t. 🚫👥

Each child has a unique emotional blueprint. When I lean into that and honour it, they feel safer. 🛏️ More seen 👁️. More loved ❤️. And as a parent, I feel more connected and confident, because I’m no longer guessing — I’m guided. 🧭

This isn’t just useful for parents. It’s powerful for practitioners, teachers, coaches — anyone who works with people. 👩‍🏫👨‍⚕️👥

That’s why I now offer a Rayid Birth Order course, available anytime at:
👉 https://christosmili.org/courses/rayid-birth-order/

If you’re curious about why you (or your kids, partner, clients — even your own parents) behave the way they do, this course is eye-opening. 👁️ You’ll learn how to better understand yourself and the people around you — and maybe even develop a deeper appreciation for them. 💫

You’ll gain:
✅ A practical framework for understanding emotional dynamics in families
✅ Deeper empathy and clarity around why people behave the way they do
✅ Tools to better support your children’s growth and self-worth
✅ Insight into your own childhood patterns — and how to heal and reframe them

This work has been transformative in my own life and in the lives of hundreds of families I’ve worked with. 🙏 I’d love to share it with you.

When you understand the emotional DNA of your family, everything changes. 🧬

Here’s to raising strong, sensitive, beautifully different humans —
One insight at a time. ✨

Warmly,
Christos









Read More…

Eating with All Five Senses – A Deeper Kind of Nourishment
16 May

When we think about food, most of us immediately jump to taste. Salty, sweet, spicy, or savoury—it’s what we often believe makes or breaks a meal. But in truth, food is far more than just taste. It’s texture, aroma, colour, sound, memory, connection. It’s one of the most beautiful ways we connect with ourselves, our culture, and those we love.

As a naturopath and someone passionate about empowering families to embrace wellness, I’ve come to believe that one of the simplest yet most powerful changes we can make is how we eat. Not just what we eat, but how fully we experience each 

Let me explain what I mean by that.

Touch – The Forgotten Gateway to Presence In many cultures around the world, eating is a hands-on experience. From Ethiopian injera to Indian thalis, meals are often enjoyed without cutlery—and for good reason. Touching our food before it enters our mouth gives our brain a head start. It builds connection and primes the digestive system.

As Westerners, we’ve been trained to view food handling as messy or uncivilised—but I believe there’s wisdom in using our hands. The sensation of a warm piece of bread or the softness of a ripe avocado can awaken a deeper sense of gratitude and presence. It grounds us in the now.

Try this at home: choose one meal this week to eat with your hands (safely and hygienically, of course). Notice how much more aware you are of the textures, the temperature, and your body’s own hunger cues.

Smell – The Soul of a Meal Our sense of smell is deeply connected to memory. The aroma of fresh basil might take you straight back to your grandmother’s kitchen. The smell of sizzling onions may transport you to a special holiday dinner.

Science tells us that up to 80% of what we perceive as “taste” is actually smell. That’s why when we have a cold, everything tastes bland. Smell doesn’t just enhance taste—it unlocks emotion and experience.

When we take time to appreciate the scent of our food before digging in, we allow our parasympathetic nervous system—the “rest and digest” system—to activate. This makes a big difference, especially for kids who eat too fast or are prone to tummy troubles.

Pause and inhale before your next bite. Let the aroma prepare your body and calm your mind.

Sight – The Art of Eating We eat with our eyes first. Colour, plating, freshness—all play a huge role in how we perceive a meal. A vibrant salad with deep greens, purples and oranges will likely draw more excitement than a dull, monotone dish.

But what happens when that sense is removed?

Years ago, I had an unforgettable experience in Toronto at a restaurant called O.Noir, where diners eat in complete darkness. The waiters are legally blind, and guests are led into a pitch-black dining room where there is no light. At all.

At first, I was overwhelmed. I couldn't see the table, the food, or even my hands. I had a fleeting moment of panic—but then something magical happened. I began to rely on my other senses. I felt the warmth of the bread, I smelled the herbs in my risotto, and I listened more deeply to the voices of my friends around the table.

Eating without sight made me appreciate my food in a whole new way. It reminded me that while visual presentation is powerful, it’s not everything. The body adapts. The spirit rises. And the experience becomes more intimate. Now anywhere I come across a ‘Dining in the Dark’ restaurant, I always make an effort to go. I have been to more than 4 different restaurants. In Kuala Lumpur Malaysia there is a wonderful Restaurant called ‘Dining in the Dark’ which I have been to over 20 times now - every time I teach in Malaysia I go there with friends. It is so exciting eating a 4 course meal and trying to guess the tastes.

Maybe you could try eating with a blind fold on!

Sound – The Rhythm of Shared Meals Sound may not seem like a key player in eating, but think about the sizzle of a stir-fry, the crunch of a fresh apple, or the pop of a champagne cork. These sounds trigger anticipation and excitement. They make eating feel alive.

Even more than that, sound is essential in social eating. Conversation, laughter, storytelling—these are what turn meals into memories. Some of my most cherished moments with family aren’t about what we were eating, but what was said around the table.

I encourage families to reclaim mealtime as sacred. Turn off the TV. Put away the phones. Let the sound of voices—of presence—be the soundtrack to your meals.

Taste – The Culmination of it All Finally, we arrive at taste. The grand finale. But here’s the thing: when you truly engage all your senses before you even taste, the flavours are amplified. You become more discerning, more in tune with subtle differences. You begin to notice how herbs, spices, and wholefoods really feel in the body—not just how they taste.

This kind of mindful eating supports digestion, emotional wellbeing, and even weight balance. And it’s a beautiful way to teach kids to tune in to their own fullness and food preferences.

Practical Ways to Eat with All Five Senses: Create colourful meals: Think of the rainbow on your plate. Bright colours often indicate a diversity of nutrients.

Use herbs and spices intentionally: Not only for flavour, but for their aromatic and therapeutic qualities.

Try silence or blindfolded eating: Even once a month. It’s a powerful way to connect with your food more deeply.

Talk about the meal: Ask your kids what they smell, feel, or hear while eating. This builds sensory awareness and emotional connection.

Slow down: Chew more. Breathe between bites. Put your fork down between mouthfuls. Presence is powerful.

In Closing… Those of us blessed with sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste have an incredible opportunity—every single day—to experience eating as a rich, joyful, and even healing act.

So tonight, before your next bite, pause. Take a breath. Tune in. Let your senses feast first.

To nourishing meals and mindful moments.



Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist

For appointments or consultations, visit: North East Naturopathic Group

To explore my courses, head to: christosmili.org.au
Read More…

🌿 Why Emotional Intelligence Matters (More Than You Think)
9 May

🌿 Why Emotional Intelligence Matters (More Than You Think)

Have you ever felt completely misunderstood in a conversation — or worse, found yourself frustrated by someone else's reaction and not knowing why? 😤

I've been there. Not too long ago, I was in a conversation where I thought I was being clear and kind… but the other person walked away upset. It stopped me in my tracks. I could feel the tension rising — my breath quickened, my neck and shoulders tightened.

That moment reminded me how deeply our emotional awareness (or lack of it) affects not just our relationships, but also our physical wellbeing. 🧠💥

Emotional intelligence — or EQ — is simply the ability to understand and empathise with what others are feeling, even when it’s different to what we feel. It’s about choosing connection over correction. 🤝

And in my work as a naturopath and Bowen therapist, I see emotional stress show up in the body all the time — tight jaws, sore backs, gut issues, disrupted sleep... you name it. 💬➡️🧍‍♂️


🧍 The Cost of ‘Me-Centred’ Thinking

When we’re stuck in our own heads, our own stories, and our own “rightness,” something subtle but powerful happens: disconnection.

We stop seeing the people around us. Tension creeps into our relationships — at home, at work, even in our health. ⚡

I’ve had clients come in with chronic gut symptoms, migraines, or constant fatigue. And when we peel back the layers, we often find unresolved emotional tension — arguments at home, feeling unseen, or simply the weight of not being understood. 💔

The body holds on to those moments. And over time, they wear us down — mentally and physically.


🌈 The Power of Emotional Intelligence

Here’s the good news: emotional intelligence isn’t just for the “naturally sensitive.” It’s a skill. One that anyone can learn and strengthen — like a muscle. 💪

I think of a client who was struggling with constant conflict with her teenage daughter. Every conversation turned into a standoff. But once she leaned into understanding before reacting, everything shifted.

She replaced “I’m right” with “I’m listening.” The energy at home softened. Her body let go of the tension. She felt lighter — not just emotionally, but physically too. 🏡💖

I’ve experienced the same. When I show up from a place of presence and curiosity — even when I feel triggered — I feel the shift immediately. My breath deepens. I sleep better. I feel grounded. 🌿


✋ 5 Ways to Grow Your Emotional Intelligence

If you’re ready to build your emotional EQ muscle, here are five practices I’ve seen make a big difference — in my own life and in clinic:

1. 🎧 Listen Deeply

Don’t just wait for your turn to speak. Really hear people. Try paraphrasing what they say, keep eye contact, and ask questions like, “Can you tell me more?”

2. 👀 Notice Emotional Cues

Tune in to body language, tone, and timing. Sometimes the words are calm, but the energy underneath tells another story.

3. 🌍 Be Curious About Others

Ask about people’s backgrounds, values, and life experiences. When we understand where someone comes from, empathy grows naturally.

4. 🤝 Seek Understanding Over Being Right

Try saying, “Help me understand…” It’s a simple shift, but it opens the door to deeper connection.

5. 🌱 Spend Time Outside Your Usual Circle

Whether it’s a different culture, generation, or worldview — getting curious beyond your comfort zone stretches both your mind and heart.


💓 Emotional Wellness Is Physical Wellness

When I support families on their health journeys, I always say: Wellness isn’t just about what you eat. It’s about how you live, how you connect, and how you feel.

Emotional suppression creates tension in the body. That’s why I often pair Bowen therapy with naturopathic care — it helps release the stress that’s been trapped in the nervous system. 🌀

The gut, especially, is a messenger. Ever felt sick to your stomach from nerves? Lost your appetite during grief? That’s your emotional intelligence, speaking through your body. 🧠➡️💚


🌟 A Practice Worth Pursuing

Emotional intelligence gets stronger with practice — like building a new muscle. Yes, it takes time, courage, and consistency. But the reward? Deepened relationships, clearer decisions, and that amazing feeling of being seen and heard. 🤗

If you’d like support understanding yourself and others better — emotionally, physically, and energetically — I’d love to walk that journey with you. You don’t have to do it alone.

Here’s to living with awareness, compassion, and connection. 💫



Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist

For appointments or consultations, visit: North East Naturopathic Group

To explore my courses, head to: christosmili.org.au

Read More…

Bowen Therapy
2 May

How Gentle Touch Can Lead to Deep Healing

We live in a world that often celebrates "hard and fast" — push harder at the gym, hustle through pain, suppress the symptoms.
But nature teaches us something different:

True healing happens in stillness, in gentleness, in tuning in… not pushing through.

That’s the heart of Bowen Therapy — a remarkable healing modality that uses light touch to reset the body’s systems and restore balance.
And the results? Often profound.

📜 Where Did Bowen Therapy Come From?

Developed in the 1950s by Thomas Ambrose Bowen in Geelong, Victoria, Bowen Therapy is truly an Aussie innovation.

Tom Bowen wasn’t medically trained, but he had an extraordinary gift: he could observe the body and sense areas of dysfunction. Over the years, he created a unique technique using gentle rolling movements over muscles and connective tissue.

By the 1970s, Tom was seeing over 13,000 patients a year — with no advertising, just results.
After his passing, his students formalised the technique, and today Bowen is practiced worldwide as a safe, effective, and holistic approach to healing.

🌿 What Makes Bowen Therapy Different?

Bowen may seem too gentle to be effective — no cracking, deep pressure, or stretching.
But that’s exactly what makes it powerful.

Bowen works directly with your fascia — the connective tissue wrapping every muscle, nerve, and organ — and the autonomic nervous system, the part of you responsible for healing, digestion, and rest.

Think of it like pressing a reset button — one that reminds your body how to heal itself.

🧠 Helping the Nervous System Heal

Most of us live in a constant state of "fight or flight" — chronic stress, poor sleep, tension, and trauma (even subtle childhood stress) keep us stuck there.

Bowen Therapy invites the body to shift into "rest and digest" mode — where healing finally begins.
When that happens:
✔ Breath slows
✔ Muscles soften
✔ Digestion improves
✔ Hormones and immunity come back online

🌀 Why the Pause Matters

After a few gentle moves, your Bowen therapist will pause and leave the room.
Not to make a cuppa — but to give your nervous system time to respond.

Clients often report feeling:
✨ Warmth
✨ Tingling
✨ Deep relaxation
✨ Emotional release
✨ Subtle shifts or twitches

As a practitioner, I’ve learned this:

The pause is where the magic happens.

🔍 What Can Bowen Therapy Help With?

Here’s where I’ve seen Bowen make a real difference in my practice:

1️⃣ Pain & Musculoskeletal Issues

Lower back pain, neck stiffness, shoulder tension, sciatica — Bowen helps soften tight fascia and support gentle realignment.

2️⃣ Stress, Anxiety & Emotional Holding

Many clients release stored emotions without needing to talk. The body lets go in its own way.

3️⃣ Digestive Health

From IBS to reflux and sluggish digestion — Bowen calms the vagus nerve, supporting gut health from the top down.

4️⃣ Hormonal & Reproductive Balance

Bowen gently supports the endocrine system — helpful for PMS, irregular cycles, and menopause transitions.

5️⃣ Babies & Children

Bowen is gentle enough for newborns and can help with:
• Colic & wind
• Sleep disturbances
• Bedwetting
• Breastfeeding issues
• Behavioural tension

Children often respond quickly, with noticeable changes in sleep, mood, and behaviour.

🧘‍♀️ After a Session: What to Expect

Bowen keeps working for days after a session.

✅ Some feel instant relief
✅ Others feel a short increase in symptoms as the body rebalances — this is normal
✅ Drink water, walk gently, and avoid other treatments for 5 days to get the most from your session

💬 Why I Use Bowen Therapy

As a naturopath and Bowen therapist, I’m always seeking approaches that work with the body, not against it.

Bowen does exactly that.
It’s not about pushing or forcing — it’s about creating the right environment for your body to remember how to heal.

💛 Final Thoughts: Your Body Knows How to Heal

Bowen Therapy reminds us:

Your body is not broken. It just needs the right support to return to balance.

Whether you’re experiencing pain, stress, digestive issues, hormonal shifts, or just want to reconnect with your body — Bowen may be what you’ve been looking for.

If you're curious, reach out.
I’d love to support you through this gentle, powerful healing process.

Warmly,
Christos
Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist Read More…

Unlocking Your Health Potential with Iridology: A Window into Your Wellness Journey
25 Apr

Have you ever wished you could understand your body better—before symptoms show up? Imagine having a personalised roadmap that helps you identify where you’re thriving and where you might need a little extra support. That’s exactly what Iridology offers. As someone who’s dedicated over 25 years to natural health, I can tell you—there’s nothing quite like Iridology when it comes to gaining deep insights into your inner health story.

Whether you're a busy parent, a young adult finding your way, or simply someone curious about natural healing, understanding your genetic predispositions gives you a powerful edge.

What is Iridology, Really?
At first glance, Iridology might seem like a bit of a mystery. But once you dive in, it’s like unlocking a secret language that your body has been speaking all along.Iridology is a non-invasive technique that looks at the iris—the coloured part of the eye—to understand how your body functions and where it may be struggling. Your iris holds intricate patterns and colours that are unique to you. It’s a map of your inherited strengths, sensitivities, and potential health tendencies. This isn’t new-age guesswork—it’s grounded in decades of observation, clinical research, and traditional wisdom. And I’ve seen it change lives. Just last month in Athens, I finished teaching a 6-day Comprehensive Iridology course with students from all walks of life—naturopaths, bodyworkers, health coaches. The amazement on their faces as they saw their own irises and decoded their health patterns was priceless. It reaffirmed what I’ve always believed: your body is wise, and it always leaves clues.

So, What Can Your Iris Reveal?
The beauty of Iridology is that it’s not about diagnosing illness. It’s about understanding potential—where your body might need nurturing, and where it naturally shines.
Some examples of what we can assess:
🔍 Digestive Resilience – Is your gut absorbing nutrients well? Do you have a tendency toward sluggish digestion, bloating, or food sensitivities?
🔍 Circulation & Cardiovascular Health – Cold extremities, low energy, or varicose veins? The iris may show circulatory congestion or a need for vascular support.
🔍 Nervous System Patterns – If you struggle with anxiety, burnout, or difficulty sleeping, you may have a constitution that requires nervous system nourishment.
🔍 Toxic Load & Detox Pathways – Are your elimination organs (liver, kidneys, lymphatics) coping well with environmental and dietary toxins?
🔍 Inflammation & Acidity Levels – Chronic inflammation is the root of many diseases. We can often detect early signs and help you reverse course naturally.
These signs often appear long before you experience symptoms, giving you the chance to take preventative steps. That’s the real magic of Iridology—it puts the power back in your hands.

Why This Matters: It’s Personal
I’ve worked with hundreds of families, individuals, and health professionals over the years. One thing that’s always stood out is this: people thrive when they feel seen, understood, and empowered.

A mother once brought her 9-year-old son to me—he had recurring digestive troubles, poor sleep, and low energy. Through Iridology, we uncovered a digestive constitution that needed extra support and a liver under stress. With simple changes—targeted food swaps, gentle herbal support, and a few Bowen sessions—he transformed. More energy, better moods, better digestion. It wasn’t magic. It was awareness.

Practical Ways Iridology Can Guide You
Here’s how Iridology can help you live more intentionally and preventatively:
✅ Food as Medicine – Tailor your diet to match your constitution. Some irises indicate a stronger need for cooked foods or additional digestive enzymes. Others do better with light, raw meals and periodic detoxing.
✅ Exercise That Works for You – Not everyone thrives on high-intensity workouts. Your iris might suggest a preference for steady, grounding movement like walking, yoga, or swimming.
✅ Stress & Emotional Resilience – If your iris shows sensitivity in the nervous system zone, you might benefit from specific adaptogenic herbs, breath work, or therapies like Bowen to regulate and restore balance.
✅ Long-Term Prevention – Spot potential trouble areas before they escalate. This is especially powerful for families who want to create strong foundations for their kids’ health.
✅ Support During Major Life Changes – Whether you're going through a stressful time, a major transition, or simply feeling “off,” Iridology can offer clarity on where to focus your energy.

Online Consultations: Iridology Wherever You Are
And here’s the best part—we can do this wherever you are. Thanks to today’s technology, I now offer online Iridology consultations, making this powerful assessment tool accessible even if you're outside the Wangaratta region. All you need is a clear photo of each eye (I'll guide you on how to take it), and we can connect via video call to go through your results together. Whether you’re in Melbourne, Brisbane, or even overseas, your health map can be read just as clearly. It’s holistic care from the comfort of your home—perfect for busy families, travellers, or anyone who prefers the convenience of online support.
Empowered Health Starts with Understanding We live in a world where people often wait until something breaks before they fix it. But imagine if you could walk alongside your body and support it in real time, responding to its needs before dis-ease takes hold. That’s what Iridology offers—a chance to reconnect with your body’s wisdom.
So if you’ve been feeling out of balance, curious about your health story, or just want a deeper understanding of what makes you tick… let’s explore what your eyes have to say.

Ready to Take the Next Step? I offer Iridology Assessments both in-person and online. I’d love to support you on your wellness journey.

📞 To book a session or request a Comprehensive Iridology Report, call North East Naturopathic Group on (03) 5798 3344.
🌐 Or visit www.nenaturopathicgroup.com.au to learn more, and explore our services
✨ Curious about learning Iridology yourself?
If you're a health practitioner, student, or simply passionate about natural health, you can begin your own journey into this remarkable science through my online or in person Iridology courses at www.christosmili.org. Whether you're just getting started or want to deepen your skills, you’ll find practical, heart-led education designed to empower and inspire.
Let’s move from guessing to knowing. From coping to thriving. Your health journey is yours to shape—Iridology just helps light the path.

Warmest wishes,

Christos

Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist
Empowering families toward vibrant, natural health
Read More…

Travel Remedies: How to Stay Healthy During This Travel Season
18 Apr

By Christos – Naturopath, Bowen Therapist, Iridologist



As the travel season kicks in, many of us are packing bags, planning adventures, and preparing to make memories with family and friends. But while our hearts may be ready for the journey, our bodies sometimes need a little extra support to stay well along the way.

Whether you're heading to a nearby coastal town, flying overseas, or road-tripping with the kids, the change in routine, climate, food, and time zones can all challenge our immune system, digestion, and energy levels.

As a naturopath passionate about helping families embrace vibrant health—naturally—I want to share some of my go-to travel remedies to keep you and your loved ones thriving, no matter where you roam.



1. Boost Immunity Before You Go

Prevention is powerful. About a week before travel, I recommend increasing your intake of immune-supporting nutrients:

• Vitamin C and zinc are absolute essentials for immune resilience.
• Echinacea or elderberry extract can help support the body’s natural defenses.
• Probiotics are vital, especially if you're heading to a new country. A good quality broad-spectrum probiotic helps protect the gut and reduces your risk of picking up bugs from food or water.

🛫 Travel tip: Start your probiotic the week before and continue daily while you’re away.



2. Hydration Is Everything

Planes, dry air, salty foods, and busy days can leave us dehydrated without realising it. Dehydration is a common trigger for fatigue, headaches, constipation, and jet lag.

💧 Remedy: Travel with a stainless steel water bottle and aim to drink water regularly. Add a pinch of Himalayan salt or a splash of coconut water for natural electrolytes. Herbal teas like peppermint or ginger are also wonderful to ease digestion and prevent bloating.



3. Support Your Digestive System

New foods and eating out more often can disrupt your digestion. For many people, this can mean constipation, bloating, or indigestion while travelling.

🌿 Natural supports:

• Apple cider vinegar in a little water before meals helps stimulate digestion.
• Digestive enzymes or bitters can assist if you’re prone to sluggish digestion.
• Peppermint oil capsules are a great remedy for travel-induced bloating or nausea.

4. First Aid the Natural Way

I always travel with a mini remedy kit – it’s a lifesaver!

Here are my favourites:

• Rescue Remedy or Emergency Essence for calming travel stress or jet lag.
• Arnica for bumps, bruises, or overexertion.
• Activated charcoal for food poisoning or tummy bugs.
• Lavender oil – a must-have! It’s calming, antibacterial, and great for bites, sunburn, and relaxation.
• Homeopathic remedies like Nux Vomica for overindulgence or Gelsemium for travel anxiety.

✈️ Ask me if you’d like a custom-made natural travel kit before your next holiday—I prepare these for families regularly, and they’re incredibly handy.



5. Move Your Body, Even Gently

Hours in cars, planes, or unfamiliar hotel beds can leave your body feeling stiff and sore.

• Stretch during rest stops or layovers.
• A few minutes of Bowen-style stretches can keep your back, neck, and hips feeling good.
• Gentle walks in nature when you arrive help your body ground and adapt.

🌏 Remember, movement is medicine!



6. Sleep Well While Away

Travel can easily throw off your sleep routine. Support your natural sleep rhythms with:

• Magnesium – to relax muscles and ease the nervous system.
• Chamomile or Passionflower tea in the evenings.
• Melatonin (if needed) for jet lag, but only short-term.

🛌 A sleep mask and earplugs can make a big difference when you’re sleeping in new environments.



Empowered Travel = Joyful Travel

The best travel experiences happen when you feel well, energised, and able to truly enjoy the moment. With a few simple natural remedies and thoughtful preparation, you can protect your health while making beautiful memories with your loved ones.

If you'd like help creating a custom travel wellness kit or want remedies tailored to your specific needs, reach out—I’m here to help. Let’s make sure your holiday is not just fun, but also fabulously healthy.

🌿 Safe travels and vibrant health,
Christos
Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist

Read More…