Holistic Health

03/04/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1H1DE8AzJM/

A large international genetic study has identified vitamin B1 (thiamine) metabolism as a surprising factor influencing how often people have bowel movements. Published in Gut (January 2026), researchers analysed genetic data from 268,606 individuals of European and East Asian ancestry to investigate stool frequency, a commonly used proxy for gut motility. They identified 21 independent gene loci, including 10 novel signals implicating bile acid synthesis (KLB) and cholinergic signalling (COLQ). Fine-mapping pointed strongly toward two genes involved in thiamine transport and activation, SLC35F3 (a thiamine transporter) and XPR1 (phosphate exporter essential for thiamine activation).

This B1 connection was then reinforced by the scientists’ analysis of observational data from nearly 100,000 UK Biobank participants. It showed that higher dietary (food-derived, supplemental intervention was not assessed) thiamine intake was associated with more frequent bowel movements, with the strength of this relationship significantly modified by an individual’s genetic profile. Specifically, the combined SLC35F3/XPR1 genotype score significantly modulated this effect (p

22/03/2026

Just back from the NMHNZ conference in Wellington that ran this weekend. Wow!! My cup is running over 💚 It was jammed packed full of guest speakers, complete subject matter experts, in their fields of all things naturopathic. We got down to biochemistry and physiology of gut microbiome, covered certain health presentations in depth, energetic quantum healing, analysis of functional testing, case studies, looked at endocannabinoid systems and more. My brain has gone on a huge download. So grateful to one of my professional associations for organising this weekend. Very grateful for the connections.

16/03/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/18CMHDzcMh/

The splenius cervicis is one of the posterior cervical muscles that lies deep to the upper fibres of the trapezius and inferior to the splenius capitis. It belongs to the splenius muscle group, which forms part of the superficial layer of the intrinsic back muscles in the neck region.

Anatomically, it runs obliquely upward and laterally from the upper thoracic spine toward the cervical transverse processes.

Origin
Spinous processes of T3–T6 and the supraspinous ligaments.

Insertion
Posterior tubercles of the transverse processes of C1–C3 (sometimes C4).

Innervation
Posterior rami of the lower cervical spinal nerves.

Functionally, its actions depend on whether one side or both sides are contracting.

When one side contracts (unilateral contraction), the muscle produces ipsilateral rotation and ipsilateral lateral flexion of the cervical spine. In other words, it turns and side-bends the head toward the same side as the contracting muscle.

When both sides contract (bilateral contraction), the splenius cervicis contributes to extension of the cervical spine, helping bring the head backward.

From a biomechanical perspective, the oblique fibre direction explains this behaviour. Because the fibres run superolaterally, shortening the muscle pulls the cervical transverse processes posteriorly and laterally, creating the combination of rotation and side bending.

Clinically, the splenius cervicis often becomes tender in people with neck pain or upper thoracic stiffness, particularly where there is reduced movement in the lower cervical or upper thoracic segments. Since it attaches from the thoracic spinous processes to the upper cervical transverse processes, it can influence motion across multiple cervical levels, linking thoracic and cervical mechanics.

14/03/2026

When you cut into avocado and it's perfectly ripe = GOLD 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

06/03/2026

27/02/2026

Nothing says "eat me now!" more than a plate full of steamed vegetables!!

19/02/2026

Refilling our cup is always a great idea. Spending time with loved ones with no expectations, just enjoying the adventure as the day unfolds...

14/02/2026

When lunch between clients looks a lot like a breakfast 😂

13/02/2026

Meal prepping is a lifesaver when our days are super busy & we want food in a hurry. Tomatoes & lettuce straight from the garden. A quick & easy meal followed by berries from the garden (that my dog couldn't reach 😂) ...

10/02/2026

💚💚💚

Beautiful souls ✨

The world can feel loud. Overwhelming. Fractured. We see constant news stories about what’s happening on our small planet, and even though it’s all brought into our lives through the media, so much of it feels beyond our control.

Lately, I’ve heard so many people asking: How can we make a difference? What can we do?

I’ve found myself returning again and again to a quote from a movie that’s stayed with me over the years:

“How do we change the world? One random act of kindness at a time.” Morgan Freeman, in Evan Almighty.

That kindness always begins at home, with ourselves. From there, the ripple effect begins. Simple acts of kindness move from us to our families, our friends, and out into our communities. And that is where our power lies. That is something we can control.

Each act of kindness sends a quiet message into the world...
this is how we bring peace into our homes... this is how we remember who we are.

Be kind to yourself this week precious ones and let that be enough 🤗🥰✨

10/02/2026

09/02/2026

I'm pretty excited about my new clinic space, which I'm ready to share. It's restful and peaceful, exactly what I had in mind a couple of years ago 💚💚💚

I had some significant life changes during 2025, for the energy to be right to create this ''Place of Zen''. Last year at a busy event the host said to me "Thank you for bringing the Zen" and his words resonated with me.

2026 brings fresh energy, clarity & intention. The right people with the right skill sets were manifested. I can't explain it any other way.

My builder is a artist & healer, he was happy to mahi on this job. Friends have loaned cones, gifted healing crystals, cleansing white sage, smudging Palo Santo fragrant wood, welcome mats and more. The space has been blessed 💚💚💚

Outside is still work in progress & thats okay.

My first client in this space is one of my most loyal supporters of my small business. I'm grateful every day of being privileged to mahi from home, exchanging energy with beautiful people. I look forward to sharing this space with others 💚💚💚

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