Traditional Chinese Medicine

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been practised for thousands of years, and it forms an important foundation within my work. I am continually inspired by its deep wisdom and its beautifully holistic understanding of the human body.

At the heart of TCM is the concept of life force energy — often known as chi (also written as qi). In other healing traditions, this same life force is referred to as ki or prana. Whatever name we give it, this energy is understood to flow throughout the body, nourishing and supporting every system.

In TCM, chi moves through pathways known as meridians. These meridians connect and communicate with the organs, tissues, blood, and bodily systems, ensuring everything functions as it should. When this energy flows freely, the body is in balance — a state of harmony known as homeostasis — where physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing can flourish.

Both humans and animals are deeply affected by trauma and chronic stress. When a distressing experience occurs, the brain and body retain a memory of that event. Ongoing stress can influence the nervous system and, over time, may even create changes at a cellular level.

Animals are naturally designed to discharge stress. In many cases, after a startling or threatening experience, they will physically shake or release tension and return to calm relatively quickly. However, when stress becomes chronic or trauma is repeated, the body may begin to hold onto those experiences rather than releasing them.

These “locked” emotions can manifest physically — as tension, stiffness, behavioural changes, fatigue, or low mood. Emotional distress is not separate from the body; it is held within it.

The documentary E-Motion explores this concept — how unprocessed emotional energy may become stored within the body and influence physical wellbeing. While perspectives differ, it offers an interesting lens through which to consider the mind-body connection.

Energy medicine and holistic healing, are some of the oldest healing practices, however they offer gentle but effective ways to not only alleviate symptoms but to address deeper layers of physical and emotional discomfort. The techniques although simple in their approach; have helped many to not just “heal” symptoms, but to re-address many levels of discomfort or distress.

In my practice, I view you as a whole person — not just a collection of symptoms. TCM teaches that every part of the body is interconnected. Your physical health, emotions, lifestyle, and environment all influence one another.

When balance is maintained, your body’s natural intelligence supports vitality and resilience. However, life experiences such as stress, trauma, injury, or prolonged emotional strain can disrupt the smooth flow of chi. When energy becomes blocked or depleted, this may show up as discomfort, fatigue, emotional imbalance, or illness.

Rather than simply addressing symptoms, my intention is to gently support the restoration of energetic flow and harmony within your whole system.

Understanding Energy Blockages in Humans & Animals

In my work, I often see how blockages in chi can arise from many different sources. These may include physical injury, environmental factors such as dampness, cold or dryness, or internal experiences like mental stress, trauma, or emotional pain — including anger, sadness, fear, or grief.

When these imbalances are not gently addressed, they can deepen and begin to manifest as physical symptoms or behavioural changes. I believe in working proactively wherever possible — supporting the body and energy system before symptoms intensify. And when symptoms are already present, I focus on identifying and addressing the root cause, not simply easing what appears on the surface.

When the Root Cause Is Emotional

Identifying physical discomfort can sometimes feel more straightforward. Emotional or psychological imbalances, however, can be more complex — even within ourselves. It takes patience and compassion to gently unravel held emotions or long-standing stress patterns.

This becomes even more nuanced when working with animals, who cannot verbally express what they are feeling.

In 2012, a group of prominent scientists published the Cambridge Declaration on Consciousness, recognising that many animals — including mammals, birds, and even some invertebrates — are conscious and sentient beings. The declaration states:

“Convergent evidence indicates that non-human animals have the neuroanatomical, neurochemical, and neurophysiological substrates of conscious states along with the capacity to exhibit intentional behaviours. Consequently, the weight of evidence indicates that humans are not unique in possessing the neurological substrates that generate consciousness.”

This acknowledgment affirms what many animal guardians and therapists have long felt — that animals experience emotions, sensations, and the effects of stress or trauma in ways not unlike we do.

Recognising Pain & Emotional Distress in Animals

Physical discomfort can sometimes be easier to observe. Dogs may recoil, withdraw, or become protective over a painful area. Horses, however, as herd animals, are instinctively wired to mask vulnerability. Rather than visibly reacting to discomfort, they may subtly compensate, making careful observation essential.

When working with animals — particularly horses — I pay close attention to:

• Body language

• Posture and gait

• Changes in movement

• Muscle tone and fascia

• Temperature variations

• Behavioural or training changes

• Social dynamics within their herd or environment

Emotional or psychological distress often requires a broader view. Changes in behaviour, mood, responsiveness, or energy levels can offer valuable insight into underlying imbalance

Trauma, Stress & “Locked” Emotions

A Gentle, Multi-Layered Approach to Healing

To support both humans and animals in returning to homeostasis, I believe it is important to have a variety of gentle, effective tools available.

Within my animal therapy sessions, I may incorporate:

• Animal Reiki – Supporting energetic balance and emotional calm

• Sound Healing – Using vibration to encourage nervous system regulation

• Crystal Therapy – Enhancing energetic flow and grounding

• Equine Touch & Fascia Massage – Working with the fascia to release physical restriction and stored tension

Each session is personalised. I take time to understand the individual animal, their environment, their history, and the concerns of their guardian. If needed, we can begin with a gentle introductory session to ensure everyone feels comfortable.

A Realistic & Compassionate Perspective

Holistic therapy is not a quick fix — nor should it be. True healing often unfolds in layers. As a general guide, the deeper or more longstanding the imbalance, the more time and sessions may be needed to gently peel back those layers.

While energy work is subtle in its approach, it can be profound in its effects when given space and consistency. My intention is never to “override” the body, but to support it in locating and addressing the root cause in its own time.