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🔗 Links mentioned in this episode:

AcuPro Academy Continuing Education Courses

Natalie’s website + Join her newsletter!

The Qi of Tea eBook

Show Notes

On this episode of The AcuPro Show, I had the absolute pleasure of spilling the Chinese herbal tea with the lovely Natalie Chandra Saunders—a passionate tea enthusiast and expert in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), based in the stunning countryside of Wales. As someone who adores both Chinese medicine and Wales, this conversation felt like a perfect blend!

We dove deep into her journey from pharmacy to TCM, her time in China, and how Chinese herbal tea became a powerful and accessible gateway to health, healing, and community.

From Pharmacy to TCM: Natalie’s Journey

Natalie’s path to TCM began with a childhood curiosity about health and wellness. Although she was initially steered toward a career in pharmacy, her heart was always drawn to the holistic, energetic, and nature-based wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Her love for healing naturally evolved into a deep exploration of herbs, food, and—of course—Chinese herbal tea.

Immersion in China: Language, Culture, and Medicine

One of the most fascinating parts of Natalie’s story is her time living in China. Not only did she study Mandarin, but she also immersed herself in translating ancient Chinese medical texts. Her experiences gave her a deep appreciation for how interconnected Chinese culture, language, and medicine truly are. And yes—she came home with a suitcase full of books and a heart full of inspiration!

Chinese Herbal Tea as a Gateway to Healing

For Natalie, Chinese herbal tea is more than a drink—it’s a gentle introduction to the world of plant medicine. She talked about her love for tea ceremonies, how the ritual of brewing and sipping tea can shift your energy, and how something so simple can spark deeper awareness of the body.

In her book and workshops, Natalie uses Chinese herbal tea to teach TCM principles in an approachable, everyday way. It’s about reconnecting with the wisdom of nature, one cup at a time.

Yang Sheng and Nourishing Life

A major theme in our conversation was Yang Sheng, which means “nourishing life.” Whether through herbal teas, seasonal foods, or lifestyle adjustments, Natalie emphasizes living in alignment with the body’s natural rhythms. Her approach encourages simple but powerful habits—like mindful eating, breathing, and daily tea rituals—to support long-term health and vitality.

Making TCM Accessible in the West

We also explored the cultural nuances of practicing TCM in the West. Natalie shared her thoughts on adapting traditional concepts like Qi and the Five Elements into relatable language for Western patients. She believes Chinese herbal tea plays a vital role here—bridging the cultural gap while offering tangible benefits people can feel and appreciate.

Simple Wisdom for Practitioners and Patients

Natalie left us with some golden advice: Keep it simple. Whether you’re a practitioner guiding patients or someone looking to bring more balance into your life, start with small, consistent changes. Even one cup of Chinese herbal tea a day can open the door to a healthier, more mindful lifestyle.

Looking Ahead

Natalie also teased a new book in the works, inspired by ancient Chinese agricultural wisdom and seasonal health tips. If you’re interested in staying connected with her work, be sure to sign up for her newsletter for updates and insights.

Disclaimer

The Acupro Show podcast and material shared through Acupro Academy is a subdivision of Natural Health Sense Incorporated. Designed solely for educational and entertainment purposes. The utilization of information from this podcast or any associated material is at the user’s discretion and risk. This content is not meant to replace the guidance of an acupuncturist. Nor Chinese medicine doctor, medical doctor, physician, or any qualified professional. It is not a substitute for proper diagnosis or treatment. Additionally, as well as users are strongly advised not to ignore or postpone seeking medical advice. For any existing medical condition with their healthcare professional. Regarding any health concerns.

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