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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. …


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

…



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 …


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









…


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
…


🌿 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

…


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 …


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
 …


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

…





What a full and rich season this has been—one that’s left me feeling deeply inspired, grateful, and grounded.

I’ve just wrapped up an unforgettable Iridology course in Athens, co-teaching with the wonderful Ellen Jensen. To say it was powerful would be an understatement. We had students join us from four continents, all united by a shared passion for learning how to read the body’s story through the eyes. There’s something magical about teaching people how to see in a new way—not just physically, but intuitively and holistically.

And what made this experience even more special was sharing it with my daughter, Yasmina, who joined us as course manager.


Watching Yasmina step into this role with such grace, clarity, and quiet strength filled my heart in a way words can hardly express. To work alongside her—not only as father and daughter, but as teacher and organiser—was a deeply moving experience. Her calm presence anchored the space, and her leadership brought everything together seamlessly.

It reminded me that this work is not just about passing on knowledge—it’s about passing on ways of being. The way we hold space, the way we tune in, the way we care. It's about legacy, lineage, and love.

Before our time in Greece, I had the joy of running my Bowen Inside Out training in Hungary—a country and community that holds a special place in my heart. This training is always a highlight for me. It's not just about learning Bowen Therapy techniques—it’s about understanding how the body communicates through subtle signs: the iris, the face, the tongue, the nails.

There were so many “aha” moments in that room—students lighting up as they realised just how much the body wants to heal, and how much more effective our treatments can be when we treat from the inside out.

And even earlier in the season, we traveled to Venice, where I had the honour of presenting at the International Iridology Congress alongside Dr. Daniele Lo Rito, Ellen Jensen, Gino Bellinfante, and Lucio Birelli.

What an inspiring experience! The canals of Venice made a breathtaking backdrop, but the real beauty was in the room—passionate practitioners and educators coming together to share the evolution of our field. Iridology is growing. It’s deepening. And it’s a privilege to be part of this global conversation about natural health and the profound intelligence of the iris.



Iridology Insight

One of the key themes we explored during our Athens training was iris colour constitutions. These are not just aesthetic features—they are maps of our genetic inheritance. Whether a person has a Lymphatic (blue) iris or a Haematogenic (brown) iris, these patterns offer valuable insights into their physical tendencies, emotional dispositions, and potential areas of vulnerability.

This knowledge allows us to craft more personalised, effective wellness strategies—supporting people and families not just to manage their health, but to truly thrive.

These past few weeks have been a whirlwind of movement, connection, learning, and joy. I feel both energised and deeply rooted—reaffirmed in my purpose to help others listen to their bodies, honour their healing, and live with greater vitality.



Thank you for following along on this journey. There’s more to come—including some exciting new offerings I can’t wait to share with you soon.



With heart,
Christos …


As parents, one of our greatest desires is to see our children healthy, happy, and thriving. Yet, in today's world, it can feel like we're constantly battling against the odds – from endless colds and sniffles to more serious health concerns. But what if there was a way to break free from this cycle of illness and set our kids on a path to true wellness? Let's explore how we can do just that. …


Family meals can be one of the most enjoyable parts of the day though it can also be utterly challenging and stressful. What kids eat and don’t eat can be very emotional for the parents and children. …

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