Somatic Alchemy

08/08/2025

Our body is an intricate system where the gut plays a role beyond digestion. Despite the growing popularity of gut health, many myths persist that could derail your wellness journey. One myth that stands out is the belief that all probiotics are the same.

Contrary to this popular belief, probiotics differ extensively, each targeting specific health benefits. It's crucial to understand that your gut health is unique and requires tailored interventions, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

At Somatic Alchemy, we're committed to bridging the gap between myths and science-backed nutritional strategies. By understanding the nuances of gut health, you can foster physical resilience and enhance mental well-being. Empower yourself with evidence-based insights and make informed choices for a healthier you.

27/01/2024

“It can often be difficult for trauma survivors to understand how or why they reacted a certain way during a traumatic experience.

Instead of seeing their trauma response as the result of a split-second, unconscious decision made by their nervous system, your client may blame themself for not reacting differently.

This can be especially true for clients who went into the freeze or collapse response.

But Ruth Lanius, MD, PhD has a simple way of explaining how the nervous system responds to trauma that can be very helpful for clients.

This powerful piece of psychoeducation can ease feelings of shame and self-blame, and help clients appreciate the nervous system’s efforts to keep them safe.” A wonderful infographic from explaining how the nervous system responds to stress and trauma.

01/01/2024

Happy New Year everyone!

Hope this coming year is filled with good health, good cheer and good memories.

2024 LET's GO!

Hugs,

Ellena, Somatic Alchemy

05/12/2023

I love a good, hearty meal.

This recipe is from Urban Forager and the recipe can be found here: https://urbanforager.com.au/portfolio-posts/coq-au-vin-blanc/

I absolutely love all of Urban Forager stocks and this recipe uses their amazing Chicken Stock.

04/12/2023

During our week, it's super important to schedule some self-care. Yes, I said schedule. Otherwise, it may not happen, especially during busy times like Christmas.

What do I mean by self-care? I'm referring to any practice or activity you partake in that can have a positive effect on your physical, mental, emotional or spiritual life.

Self-care forms part of your well-being to prevent or manage disease. It's non-negotiable, in my opinion, and can be as important as getting enough sleep!

Many self-care practices can be done on your own at home or involve other people like a healthcare provider.

Here are some practices that you can incorporate yourself:
- a warm bath with bath salts and candles
- meditation or mindfulness exercises
- walking in nature
- beach swim
- reading a book
- dancing
- listening to music
- stretching or yoga
- journalling
- going to bed early
- using aromatherapy
- cooking a healthy, protein-rich meal

Here are some suggestions involving others:
- getting a massage
- having acupuncture
- getting your nails done
- meeting a friend for coffee
- going to church
- learning a new hobby
- talking to a counsellor when you need it
- having your hair done at the salon

Whatever activity tickles your fancy, make sure to schedule at least 1 activity during the week.

You DESERVE IT!

29/11/2023

Check out my newest blog post on Food and Mood

For some, it is hard to believe that what we put in our mouths and ultimately into our bodies has a direct effect on how our brains function. Sure, everyone knows that fried doughnuts are bad and eating pizza every day is not a great idea but it goes deeper than that. Food - and the way we eat - can...

28/11/2023

The gut-brain connection is intrinsically connected to our mental health. More than 70% of our serotonin is made within the gut!

It is getting increasingly difficult to maintain good gut health in our modern world and is a pivotal part of mental health. Even if you THINK you have a good working gut you may not be aware of underlying issues.

So, if you are experiencing mental health issues that don’t seem to resolve, take a closer look at the gut.

23/11/2023

Coffee, cup of joe, the devil's brew, java juice, mood mover. Whatever you call it, millions consume it every day. And it's one of the most studied concoctions out there.

The verdict? Coffee - in moderation - can enhance mood, stimulate the nervous system and even be neuroprotective. It has been shown to improve memory, reduce fatigue, stimulate serotonin and provide antioxidants.
And it's darn tasty too!

The key word here is MODERATION. Excess consumption can have negative side effects - especially for those with insomnia, anxiety and adrenal issues.

22/11/2023

Let's talk about eating seasonally.

There are several benefits to eating foods grown in season.

Consuming foods in season means you are eating locally grown food. This means that food is fresher, tastier and more nutritious.

It also means you are supporting the local economy and reducing transport miles which means less CO2 emissions.

Eating out of season means that food must be imported from other countries or foods that have been refrigerated and held for months and this has a negative effect on the nutrient density and the environment.

Consider local and in season!

21/11/2023

A well-researched supplement that I love to use where clinically needed.

21/11/2023

Striving for progress and not perfection can be a challenging practice to do. Especially for those perfectionists among us (myself included).

Taking any positive action towards your goals is a noble thing. It's consistency, not perfection that gets us there.

I know for me, if things weren't perfect then it wasn't worth continuing. I needed my "ducks in a row" in order to even start something worthwhile. But this mentality can lead us down a very tricky road, one with self-sabotage and an all-or-nothing approach.

Now, when I reflect back on my day, I can honestly say that I made progress in my tasks and this makes me content.