Living with Undiagnosed PCOS as a Teenager When I was 16 years old, my health began to decline in ways I didn’t immediately understand. My diet consisted mostly of processed foods: sandwiches, snacks, and fast food. Over time, I noticed my ability to focus diminished. I struggled with mental clarity, experienced frequent fatigue, and even simple cognitive tasks became unnecessarily challenging. At first, I thought it was just stress or a normal part of teenage life. But these were early signs of a deeper issue: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) . The Diagnosis: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) The turning point came when I experienced the most excruciating menstrual pain of my life. On the first day of my cycle, I was completely bedridden with severe abdominal cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. Over-the-counter pain medications didn’t help at all. After several medical assessments, I was diagnosed with PCOS , a complex hormonal and metabolic disorder that affects 10–15% of women of reproductive age. The Problem with Standard PCOS Treatment My doctor prescribed oral contraceptives  as the standard treatment. While they did suppress my symptoms — especially the menstrual pain — the side effects were overwhelming. I gained nearly 15 kg in two years, my body image deteriorated, and I started isolating myself socially. I tried supplements, adjusted my diet, and followed mainstream advice, but I still felt completely disconnected from my body and health. Discovering Traditional Chinese Medicine for PCOS Desperate for something different, I began exploring Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)  and its approach to women's reproductive health. Unlike conventional medicine, which focuses on suppressing symptoms, TCM views PCOS as an imbalance in the body’s internal systems . Patterns such as Qi stagnation , blood stasis , phlegm-damp accumulation , and kidney or spleen deficiency  are commonly identified in Chinese gynecology. A Holistic Approach: Chinese Herbs and Personalised Diagnosis I consulted with a licensed TCM practitioner who looked at more than just my lab results. They assessed my cycle, digestion, energy levels, emotional health, and overall constitution. I was prescribed a tailored herbal formula  containing several traditional Chinese herbs known for supporting hormonal balance and metabolic function: Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis):  Promotes blood circulation and regulates menstruation Bai Shao (Paeonia lactiflora):  Nourishes blood and calms Liver Yang Fu Ling (Poria cocos):  Resolves dampness and supports digestion Cang Zhu (Atractylodes):  Strengthens the spleen and reduces damp accumulation Chuan Xiong (Ligusticum chuanxiong):  Moves blood to ease pain from stagnation My Results After Using Chinese Herbal Medicine Within just three months of consistent treatment, my menstrual cycles became more regular. The intense pain that once kept me bedridden disappeared — and I no longer needed painkillers. Gradually, I also noticed: Improved digestion A significant boost in energy The disappearance of the brain fog I had lived with for years Most importantly, my cycles began to regulate naturally , without the need for synthetic hormones. These herbs didn’t just hide the symptoms — they helped my body regain its natural rhythm by addressing the root imbalances behind PCOS . Why Chinese Herbs Work for PCOS: The Science Behind It Modern studies support the effectiveness of Chinese herbs for PCOS . Many of the herbs used in TCM formulas have been shown to: Reduce chronic inflammation Regulate insulin sensitivity Improve blood flow to the ovaries Balance the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian (HPO) axis These mechanisms align with what we now understand about PCOS: a condition of hormonal imbalance, metabolic dysfunction, and inflammation . Living Without Pain or Pills Since starting Chinese herbal treatment, I have enjoyed pain-free, regular periods  without relying on pharmaceutical interventions. I no longer live in fear of when my next cycle will come or what it will do to my body and mind. “Since I started taking Chinese herbs, I have not experienced menstrual pain or missed periods. After countless supplements and medical appointments, I finally found a solution that addressed the root cause of my PCOS, not just the symptoms.” Final Thoughts: Hope for Women with PCOS My healing journey with Traditional Chinese Medicine  taught me that true wellness doesn’t come from masking symptoms — it comes from listening to the body and restoring its balance. For anyone living with PCOS, know this: there are options beyond the pill.  And sometimes, the most effective path is the one rooted in ancient knowledge. 💚 Interested in Chinese herbs for PCOS or hormonal health? Visit Ventus Clinicals  or speak with a licensed practitioner at Casa Sakra to explore safe, personalized options for your healing.

It was by treating a deep muscle—the psoas—that the pain finally subsided. Lower back pain is one of the most common complaints in modern society. Many people are diagnosed with a herniated disc and believe that they will have to live with the pain forever. However, the hernia is not always the only (or the main) cause of the problem. This was the case of a client who, despite having a confirmed diagnosis of lumbar hernia , did not find relief with conventional treatments and only improved when we worked on a little-known but fundamental muscle: the psoas . The case: a pain that, this time, did not go away This client had already suffered from a bout of lower back pain months earlier . At the time, he recovered well in just one week with chiropractic sessions. But this time, even after going back to chiropractic, the pain had persisted for four weeks, with some temporary relief but no recovery. Maintaining a good movement routine with Pilates and physical exercise was also not enough to alleviate the pain, which worsened whenever I spent too much time sitting or standing — something that was difficult to avoid both at work and in my daily life. It was at this point that he decided to try a different approach. The discovery: the psoas as a key piece During the assessment, I identified tension patterns consistent with a tight psoas — a very common condition in those who spend hours sitting or standing for long periods. The psoas is a deep muscle that connects the lower back to the legs. When it is shortened or tight, it can pull the lower back forward, increase compression in the area , and even worsen hernia symptoms — even if it is not the primary cause of the pain. In this case, despite the presence of a hernia, it was clear that what was really causing the pain was the muscle, and not the spine itself . The therapeutic approach I used a therapeutic combination adapted to your case: Myofascial release with a pain-free method , focusing on the psoas and related structures; Craniosacral Therapy , to relieve the nervous system and facilitate postural rebalancing; Therapeutic massage , to relieve compensatory tensions; Moxibustion , to improve circulation and deeply relax the lower back. After two sessions , the client reported a clear improvement in pain and stiffness. We were on the right track! With the continuation of the sessions, he fully recovered his mobility and without lower back pain or discomfort, even after long periods of sitting at work. Pain doesn't always come from where we think Even with a hernia diagnosis, pain may be related to muscle tension or chronic postural patterns . When the root cause is understood and treated, recovery can eventually occur. If you have lower back pain that won't go away... ...even with exercise, good habits and previous treatments, the origin of the pain may not yet have been identified. If you feel like you've tried everything but are still struggling with lower back pain, a different approach can make all the difference! My name is Cátia Rodrigues and I am a therapist specializing in Therapeutic Massage, Craniosacral Therapy and Myofascial Release. If you are looking for a personalized approach that goes beyond the usual massage, I am available for assessment and treatments that help identify and treat the true source of your pain. Book your session and take the first step towards recovering your well-being!

A moment to reflect on stress, trauma, and the hope of healing Only recently in human and medical history have we gained the language and awareness to name and acknowledge stress for what it is. Today, it’s clear that stress is nearly unavoidable—a natural part of living. But understanding its root causes can actually bring us hope. At the core, stress reminds us that we are wired to live. Like most animals, human beings have evolved with a nervous system finely tuned to sense, respond, protect, and adapt. This biological intelligence is what has ensured our survival. But when its processes are disrupted or overwhelmed—especially during trauma—the nervous system can hold onto unprocessed energy, leading to symptoms that many people live with daily. Stress in Modern Life Symptoms like palpitations, anxiety, panic attacks, chronic pain, and IBS often stem from the body’s incomplete attempts to discharge nervous energy from a traumatic event—or a series of them. Even when life seems calm on the outside, these symptoms may persist. You might wonder: Why can’t I manage my Stress and/or Panic Attacks, even when nothing stressful is happening? Let’s look at two key reasons: You May Be Overriding Your Body With Your Beliefs We’re raised to adapt to certain cultural definitions of success, relationships, work, and identity. These learned beliefs can lead us to make life choices that seem fine on the surface, but internally, your nervous system disagrees. You may not consciously feel under pressure—but your body is reacting to a lifestyle or environment that isn’t aligned with your deeper needs. You May Not Feel Safe Enough to Release Stress To process and discharge stress, your body needs safety, connection, and rest . If you’re burned out, unsupported, or stuck in a long-term survival mode , it becomes difficult—sometimes impossible—for your system to reset. True healing often requires the right environment , with attuned communication and a somatic (body-based) approach that allows the nervous system to release built-up energy in a healthy and sustainable way. How Can We Support You? Chinese Medicine has spent centuries studying how to regulate the nervous system and restore harmony between body and mind . Rooted in the philosophy of balance and purpose, this approach offers gentle, yet powerful tools for recovery and growth. We combine therapies like: Acupuncture Massage Cupping Herbal medicine Somatic therapy Breath work Together, these treatments are tailored to your unique physiology and emotional landscape, offering a path toward resilience, healing, and greater wellbeing . Panic International Day – June 18th You don’t have to navigate this alone. On this Panic International Day, we invite you to pause, reflect, and take a step toward healing —with support, care, and ancient wisdom by your side.

We live in hectic times. Nowadays, it seems like we have less time, everything is moving faster, and as a result, we have less availability. Although times have changed, the day itself remains the same. This means that it is our perception of time that changes, not time itself, as we still have 24 hours in a day. Because we live at a faster pace, often due to stress and anxiety, we tend to neglect our self-care, and even the things we enjoy doing. Sometimes, it's exhaustion that wears us down. To improve our routines and, consequently, our productivity, only small daily actions, some discipline, and a good dose of motivation are needed. Here are a few suggestions. During the workday, it’s important to take breaks. Whatever the work one does, it’s crucial to take short breaks throughout the day that help relieve the load of tasks, especially if the job is repetitive or requires sitting for long hours. A good way to start is by taking a 5-minute break every hour . During this break, it is recommended to take deep breaths, which will help oxygenate the body and brain, promoting relaxation and better concentration. It’s also important to stretch, stretch your arms and legs, and rotate your torso, which will help break static or repetitive positions throughout the day. Regular exercise, adapted to each person’s condition and possibilities, is essential to staying healthy. It could be a walk, going to the gym, dancing—what matters is that there’s movement to promote blood and lymph circulation in the body. These are tips that we probably all know, but they can transform our daily lives. Having a routine is important for taking care of our body, mind, and spirit. When we feel good, we can be more productive and creative, and the quality of our work improves. Seeking help from professional therapists is also essential to maintaining our balance because they provide support for our well-being and tools we can apply in our routines to improve our lifestyle. Joana Santos

Before thinking about reducing inflammation, let’s first try to understand what we might feel when our body is inflamed . Mood changes, general fatigue, lack of focus and concentration, a feeling of bloating and abdominal swelling, unexplained muscle aches, skin problems, constipation... There are so many possible signs that our body gives us to tell us it's not well. The good news is: small changes make a big difference! How to improve health in a simple way without much effort: Exercise Don’t go to sleep after midnight Drink more water Get 20 minutes of sunlight a day Eat healthy food and avoid processed food Avoid situations that cause us stress beyond what is naturally generated in our daily life All those obvious tips we already know, right? Of course, but it's these simple things that change our routine and improve our well-being. Can we take supplements? Yes. Can we turn to therapies? Yes. We can do a thousand things to feel better, but the ones that have the most effect depend only on us . It is extremely important to turn to a professional who can guide us when we feel lost and don’t know what to do, but it’s crucial to understand that much of the work is done at home and that we are an integral part of our own healing process . In Chinese medicine, in addition to using acupuncture and phytotherapy, we teach those who seek us to change lifestyle habits and improve their quality of life. How? Start by introducing more foods that reduce inflammation, such as: Dark leafy vegetables Nuts Ginger and turmeric Berries Avocado These are just a few examples and easy to introduce into your daily routine. Don’t go to bed after midnight Our biological clock/circadian rhythm should be respected. This rhythm is influenced by natural light, meaning that during the day, sunlight keeps us awake and active, while at night, darkness signals us to rest. It is very important to avoid white lights before going to sleep. Why? They alter the release of melatonin in our brain (a hormone that helps us have deeper sleep). Sleep is a whole world, but basically, it’s important to understand that sleeping after midnight alters the different stages of sleep. During deep sleep, we do a lot of emotional processing, consolidate memories, and boost creativity! Try creating a sleep-friendly environment, avoid heavy meals at dinner, and establish a more relaxing nightly routine. Exercise! Why? Exercise strengthens our immune system, reduces symptoms associated with inflammation, benefits our cognitive abilities, such as reasoning and memory, and promotes hormonal balance. Moreover, it improves our physical appearance and agility, boosting our self-esteem. Only positive aspects! Drinking water is essential Hydrating the body maintains the vital functions of our body: heart, intestines, brain, muscles, etc. Water helps regulate our body temperature. It aids digestion. It improves the health of our skin. It protects and hydrates muscles and joints. 70% of our body is water! Take care of your health! These are just basic steps f or the proper functioning of the body. In addition to these basic steps, how can Chinese medicine help? Acupuncture:  promotes circulation and balance in our body. Phytotherapy:  prescribing personalized formulas tailored to each person and their specific symptoms. TuiNa massage:  a manual therapy to treat pain, promote relaxation, and detoxify the body. Mafalda Camões Fernandes N.o: C-0051604 (Non-Conventional Therapies)

Stress seems everywhere nowadays. So then it is good to take a closer look at it. To begin with: we almost forget that we need stress. Stress is a natural response to external pressures, demands, or challenges that can come from work, relationships, or other life situations. Stress can be good, we use it to perform or to focus, eustress they call that. Stress gets bad when it is chronic or really negative, traumatic even. When it is distress. Then we can get symptoms like muscle tension, headaches, digestive problems or sleep disturbances. We can get a feeling of overwhelm, having difficulty concentrating or making decisions. Stress can increase anxiety or depression, it can lead to burn out. I have experienced the impact of burnout myself in the past. Stress affects both the mind and body, and how we handle stress plays a key role in its impact on our health. And of course it is all connected, the physical, mental, spiritual and emotional. I always use the example with clients that if you are not true to yourself, you will always have stress. If you suppress your emotions too much, you will be stressed. And also: if you don’t take care of your body and mind, you will become stressed more easily. Since stress has become such a big part of our lives, let’s also practically look at what causes it and how you can cope with it, what makes you more resilient. Elissa Epel is probably the most renowned stress researcher in the world. What she sees in her research is that uncertainty and expectations are big causes of stress. But also control. Having the feeling that you have to control everything. Letting go of that control can be liberating and really healthy. And the good news is also that you can build your stress muscle. Through experiences in life but for example also through exposing yourself to the stress of cold, for instance with ice baths or a cold shower. What is critical in dealing with stress is that you recognize it. That you recognize the feeling in your body also. So to do work on the mind body connection is crucial for your resilience. Meditation, yoga, breathwork, they all have a profound positive, and scientifically proven, influence on your stress resilience, health and ability to be focused and aware in daily life. And what people sometimes forget: the crucial influence of the simple basics of rest, sleep and recovery. Together with being aware of what your body needs and doesn’t need when it comes to nutrition. To put healthy food in your body and to really listen to your body is a gamechanger on all levels. So, instead of giving in to the negative responses to stress, like drinking alcohol, overeating, smoking, buying stuff you don’t need or picking up your smartphone, take a deep breath. Train your mind body connection. If you can, do something about external factors that give you too much stress. Act. Give your body the love it deserves. Take that massage, or ask your partner to do it of course. Exercise, move your body, go to nature. And most of all: be true to yourself, always.

Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle and effective therapeutic approach that uses subtle touch to relieve tension and improve the functioning of the central nervous system. Focused on manipulating the craniosacral system, this therapy aims to restore bodily balance and promote harmony between mind and body. In this article, we’ll explore the primary indications of Craniosacral Therapy, its health benefits, and how it can be useful in treating various disorders. We'll also highlight the increasing popularity of this practice for disease prevention and overall well-being. What is Craniosacral Therapy? Craniosacral Therapy is a technique derived from osteopathy, developed by physician and osteopath John Upledger in the 1970s. This therapeutic approach proposes that the cerebrospinal fluid, which flows around the brain and spinal cord, plays a fundamental role in the body’s overall health. By releasing tension within the craniosacral system, this therapy contributes to restoring normal nervous system function and promotes a profound sense of well-being, supporting harmony between body and mind. During a Craniosacral Therapy session, the therapist uses light, non-pressured touch that is effective in releasing restrictions and accumulated tension in the body. These touches are applied to specific points on the skull, spine, and sacrum, allowing the body to realign and function more efficiently. Indications for Craniosacral Therapy Craniosacral Therapy is indicated for a variety of physical and emotional conditions, helping to promote overall balance and alleviate symptoms of various disorders. Some of the primary indications of this therapy include: Relief from Chronic Pain Craniosacral Therapy is effective in treating chronic pain, such as back, neck, joint pain, and tension headaches. By improving cerebrospinal fluid circulation and releasing blockages in the craniosacral system, the therapy helps alleviate pain and promotes deep muscle relaxation. Emotional and Psychological Disorders This therapy is also recommended for people dealing with emotional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, chronic stress, and emotional trauma. By helping the body release accumulated tension, Craniosacral Therapy can provide emotional relief and promote a more balanced mental state. Improved Mobility and Flexibility People with movement restrictions, whether due to injuries or chronic tension, can benefit greatly from this therapy. Craniosacral Therapy helps relieve muscle stiffness, improving joint mobility and body flexibility. This can be especially useful in cases of musculoskeletal issues, such as fibromyalgia and arthritis. Sleep Disorders Craniosacral Therapy can also be indicated for those who suffer from sleep disorders, such as insomnia or disturbing dreams. By restoring nervous system balance and reducing bodily tension, this therapy helps to induce deeper and more restorative sleep. Support in Recovery from Injuries and Accidents Following traumatic injuries or accidents, Craniosacral Therapy can aid in the recovery of physical injuries. It helps accelerate the healing of muscle and joint injuries, promotes tissue regeneration, and alleviates emotional scars resulting from trauma. Neurological Disorders Craniosacral Therapy has shown effectiveness in treating neurological conditions, such as migraines, multiple sclerosis, balance disorders, and other central nervous system issues. The gentle stimulation of the craniosacral system can enhance neurological function and relieve symptoms associated with these conditions. Support for Pregnant Women and Newborns Craniosacral Therapy is also widely used by pregnant women and newborns. During pregnancy, it can alleviate back pain, tension, and stress, providing greater comfort for the mother. For infants, the therapy may be helpful in treating colic, digestive issues, and sleep difficulties. Craniosacral Therapy in Disease Prevention In addition to being an excellent option for treating various health conditions, Craniosacral Therapy is increasingly sought after for disease prevention and general health maintenance. The therapy’s focus on releasing accumulated tension, regulating the nervous system, and improving cerebrospinal fluid circulation strengthens the immune system and promotes the body’s energetic balance. Many people turn to Craniosacral Therapy not only when they’re ill, but also as a way to prevent health problems, improve the body's resilience to daily stress, and maintain a good quality of life over time. Its gentle, non-invasive nature makes it an excellent option for those seeking regular wellness and preventive healthcare. How a Craniosacral Therapy Session Works Craniosacral Therapy sessions generally last between 30 minutes and one hour, depending on the patient’s needs. During the session, the therapist conducts a detailed evaluation of the body and health history to understand where tension and blockages may be affecting well-being. The therapy is extremely relaxing, and many patients report a deep sense of relief and tranquility during and after treatment. Conclusion: Craniosacral Therapy as a Path to Holistic Well-Being Craniosacral Therapy is a non-invasive and holistic therapeutic approach that offers a wide range of benefits for physical and emotional health. Whether to relieve chronic pain, address emotional disorders, improve mobility, or support injury recovery, this therapy can be an excellent choice for those seeking a gentle but effective approach to caring for the body and mind. Furthermore, with the growing popularity of Craniosacral Therapy for disease prevention, it’s a valuable tool for anyone wanting to promote health and balance regularly. If you’re looking for a natural and safe alternative for treating various conditions or maintaining your well-being over time, consider Craniosacral Therapy as an option for achieving balance and holistic health.