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Learning to Listen One of the things I’ve learned over 25+ years in practice is this: your body is always talking to you. The challenge is, most of us were never taught how to listen.

Think about it — little signs like bloating after a meal, waking up tired even after 8 hours of sleep, or that recurring tension in your shoulders aren’t random annoyances. They’re your body’s way of saying, “Hey, pay attention to me.”

The truth is, your body rarely goes from perfect health to a full-blown illness overnight. Instead, it whispers first. If we ignore those whispers, they eventually turn into shouts. The good news? When you learn to understand your body’s language, you can catch things early, support your health naturally, and prevent bigger problems down the track.

Let’s look at some of the key ways your body speaks to you.

🍎 Gut Feelings – What Your Digestion is Telling You 

Your digestive system is often the first place body wisdom shows up. Bloating after a “healthy” salad, reflux after dinner, constipation, or sugar cravings — none of these are random.

These can be signs of:

Low stomach acid (food fermenting instead of digesting).
Gut bacteria imbalances (too much of the wrong bugs in the wrong place).
Mineral deficiencies slowing down digestion.

Simple ways to support your gut include:

Chew your food well (your stomach isn’t a blender).

Try lemon water or apple cider vinegar before meals.

Choose whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. 

👁️ The Eyes as Windows – Iridology Insights

- Your eyes aren’t just for seeing — they’re maps of your inner world. Iridology teaches us that fibre density, pupil border shape, and subtle colour nuances can reflect inherited strengths and areas needing support.

For example:

A strong, well-defined pupil border often reflects resilience in the nervous system.

Yellow pigmentation in your sclera (white part of the eye) can indicate liver stress.

Tiny flowers (lacunae) or shading can show the areas where the body is asking for nurturing.

Every eye tells a story — and learning to read those stories helps us support the whole person, not just their symptoms.

🌸 Skin Signs – Your Outer Reflection

Your skin is your largest organ, and it often mirrors what’s happening inside. Acne, dryness, rashes, or premature ageing aren’t just surface issues. They can signal that detox pathways are under pressure, hormones are shifting, or digestion needs support.

When skin speaks, it’s worth looking deeper. Hydration, a diet rich in minerals and antioxidants, gentle detox practices, and reducing toxin exposure can make a world of difference.

💆 Stress Signals – Listening to the Nervous System

That tight chest, racing mind, or restless sleep are all ways your nervous system asks for help. Modern life keeps many of us stuck in “fight or flight,” which takes a toll over time.

Some of the most common stress signs include:

Anxiety or overwhelm.

Poor sleep patterns.

Tension headaches or jaw clenching.

Irregular heartbeat or digestive changes.

Supporting your nervous system doesn’t have to be complicated: magnesium, deep breathing, Bowen Therapy, and intentional rest can all bring you back into balance.

🌿 Putting It All Together – A Life of Body Wisdom

The more you listen, the less your body has to shout. Your gut, your eyes, your skin, and your nervous system are constantly offering clues. By tuning in early, you can support balance before things spiral into bigger health concerns.

I like to think of body wisdom as connecting the dots. Instead of treating symptoms as annoyances, we see them as feedback — and with the right support, your body has an incredible capacity to heal.

💡 A Reflection for You

Pause for a moment and ask yourself:
👉 What’s one sign your body has been giving you lately?
👉 Have you been listening — or pushing through?

Your body is a storyteller. The more curious you become about its language, the more empowered you are to create lasting wellness.



One of the things I’ve learned in 25+ years of clinical practice is this: the body is always talking to us.

Sometimes it’s subtle — like low energy that creeps in mid-afternoon. Sometimes it’s obvious — like nagging headaches, anxious thoughts, or restless sleep. And other times it shows up as long-term conditions that just don’t seem to have a clear cause.

Very often, the hidden key behind these signs is mineral imbalance. Headaches, allergies, anxiety, depression, arthritis, high blood pressure — all of these (and more) can be linked to deficiencies or excesses of certain minerals.

That’s why I recommend Hair Mineral Analysis. It’s a simple, non-invasive test that gives us a window into what’s really happening inside the body, beyond what you can see in routine check-ups.

Why Minerals Matter



Minerals are the spark plugs of life — small, but absolutely essential for your body to function properly. They influence hormones, mood, digestion, immunity, heart health, and energy production. When they’re out of balance, everything feels out of sync.

Here are just a few examples I share with clients:
  • Zinc – needed for growth hormones and for insulin production, storage, and release.
  • Magnesium – calms the nervous system and supports muscles (especially the heart). Low magnesium is linked with anxiety, tension, and even heart concerns.
  • Potassium – helps move nutrients into your cells. If it’s low, you may feel flat, tired, or low in mood.
  • Sodium – too much raises blood pressure, but too little can affect overall vitality. The right balance is everything.

What Throws Minerals Off Balance?



In today’s world, it’s surprisingly easy for minerals to become unbalanced. Some common culprits I see include:
  • Diet – Processed and refined foods, alcohol, and fad diets strip the body of nutrients. Even “healthy” diets can be lacking if the soil is depleted.
  • Stress – Both emotional and physical stress rapidly burn through mineral stores.
  • Medications – Diuretics, antacids, aspirin, and the pill can deplete minerals or add toxic metals.
  • Pollution – Cigarette smoke, hair dye, cookware, and cosmetics all contribute to toxic load.
  • Supplements – Taking the wrong type or dose can create new imbalances.
  • Genetics – Some patterns are inherited, making testing especially valuable.
  • Food Choices – What you eat day-to-day has a direct impact on both mineral balance and hair health. Nutrient-dense foods build strength; processed choices break it down.

Why Hair Testing Works



Blood tests provide a moment-in-time snapshot. Hair, on the other hand, gives a longer-term view of what’s happening in the body. It can highlight:
  • Mineral deficiencies and excesses
  • Toxic metal exposure (like mercury, lead, or arsenic)
  • Hidden hormonal and metabolic patterns that routine blood work often misses


This is why I love using Hair Mineral Analysis in clinic. It takes the guesswork out of health. Instead of chasing symptoms, we step back and see the whole picture. From there, we can design the right plan — adjusting food, supplements, and lifestyle — to bring your body back into balance.

Your body is always talking. Hair Mineral Analysis is one of the clearest ways we can learn to listen — and respond with the support it needs.


For centuries, turmeric has been celebrated as one of nature’s most valuable healing spices. In Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, it was used to treat everything from digestive issues to wounds. Today, modern science has confirmed what traditional healers always knew — turmeric is a golden powerhouse for health and vitality.

The secret lies in curcumin, turmeric’s active compound, which has been shown to support the body on many levels. It’s not just about one benefit — curcumin works across the immune, digestive, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. That’s why turmeric has stood the test of time as both a food and a medicine.

What I love most about turmeric is how easy it is to use every day. Whether sprinkled on food, stirred into a latte, or taken as a supplement, this humble root brings comfort, warmth, and healing in the simplest of ways.

The Many Benefits of Turmeric



Here’s why adding turmeric to your life is worth it:
  • 🦠 Immune support – helps your body defend against germs and seasonal bugs.
  • 🔥 Anti-inflammatory – calms swelling, stiffness, and pain, making it especially helpful for joints and muscles.
  • 🧠 Brain health – research suggests curcumin supports memory, learning, and focus, and may even protect against cognitive decline.
  • 💪 Joint comfort – encourages flexibility and mobility, so you can keep moving with ease.
  • 🌱 Digestive support – reduces bloating, soothes the gut, and stimulates better digestion.
  • 💖 Heart health – supports healthy circulation, balances cholesterol, and helps protect cardiovascular function.

Easy Ways to Use Turmeric Every Day



Turmeric’s versatility makes it simple to include in your routine:
  • Add to soups, curries, and stews for colour, warmth, and flavour.
  • Stir into smoothies or juices for a spicy kick and added nutrition.
  • Sprinkle into rice, scrambled eggs, or roasted vegetables for a golden glow.
  • Enjoy a soothing golden latte before bed with turmeric, warm milk, cinnamon, ginger, and a touch of honey. (Adding a pinch of black pepper boosts absorption — a handy tip worth remembering!)


Personally, when I feel like having a coffee but want something gentler, I’ll choose a turmeric latte instead. It’s warm, comforting, and I know I’m nourishing my body at the same time.

A Note of Caution



Turmeric is generally safe for most people, but it is potent. If you’re taking medications — particularly blood thinners or those that affect the liver — it’s best to check with your healthcare provider before adding high doses or supplements. A little each day in food is usually very well tolerated.

The magic of turmeric isn’t about taking heaps all at once — it’s about consistency. Small amounts, enjoyed daily, allow its healing properties to build over time.

Final Thought



Turmeric is more than just a kitchen spice. It’s a golden reminder that nature gives us what we need to heal, protect, and thrive. By weaving it into your daily meals or drinks, you’re not only adding flavour — you’re strengthening your health in the most natural way.



Every year, I see the same thing happen—spring rolls in, the flowers bloom, and while some people are out there soaking up the sunshine, others are stuck inside sneezing, coughing, and battling itchy eyes. If you’re one of those people, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Allergies are your immune system’s way of overreacting to something that, for most people, is completely harmless. Whether it’s pollen, pet hair, bee stings, dust, or even certain foods, your body thinks it’s under attack and kicks into defence mode. That’s why instead of enjoying the season, you’re left with a runny nose, blocked sinuses, or worse.

So, what’s actually going on inside the body when this happens?

The immune system produces antibodies to protect us from illness. In the case of allergies, it produces Immunoglobulin E (IgE)—a type of antibody that tells your body to release chemicals to fight off what it thinks is an invader. Unfortunately, in allergic individuals, IgE goes into overdrive, reacting to things that really aren’t dangerous, like grass pollen or the cat next door.

Here’s the kicker: allergies can develop at any stage of life. Family history plays a big role too. If one parent has allergies, there’s a 30–50% chance you will too. If both parents do, it skyrockets to 60–80%.

For many people, allergies show up early—infancy or toddler years—but even adults who never had allergies before can suddenly develop them. Some stick around for life, while others can lessen or disappear with time.

Now here’s the important part: if you want to manage your allergies properly, you need to know your triggers. Once we identify them, we can create a clear plan to reduce your reactions and get you back to feeling like yourself again.

At NE Naturopathic Group (Wang Wellness Centre), we offer a comprehensive Allergy Test using the Electro Magnetic Machine (AT2000 Allergy Tester). This can test for up to 290 different allergens—everything from foods, pollens, dust, soaps, and mould, to chemicals, metals, and even items you bring from home or work (like carpet samples, skincare, or garden plants). We can even test using just a hair sample if you can’t make it in person.

Once your triggers are identified, we create personalized desensitizing drops to reduce your reactions, alongside practical advice on avoidance strategies. It’s all about giving you back control so you can actually enjoy the seasons without being sidelined by your symptoms.

🌱 Ready to take the first step? If you’ve been putting up with allergies for too long, now’s the perfect time to do something about it—especially before spring hits full swing. Book your allergy test today and find out what’s really going on.

📍 NE Naturopathic Group (Wang Wellness Centre)
📞 03 5798 3344
👥 Christos Miliankos & Tayla Adams


Healthy skin starts from the inside out. What we put on our plate is just as important as what we put on our skin. Raw foods are a powerful way to nourish your body and your complexion from within.

Packed with fibre, minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids (EFAs), raw foods hydrate the skin, support collagen and elastin (your skin’s natural structure), and help your vascular system deliver nutrients while whisking away toxins.

The best part? Raw foods can be combined into colourful, delicious snacks and meals that make your skin glow from the inside out. Some of my favourites include:

🥜 Nuts & seeds (and raw nut butters)

🥑 Fresh fruits & veggies — think avocado, banana, berries, oranges, kale, spinach, and other dark greens

🥤 Fresh juices — fruit or vegetable-based

🌱 Soaked or sprouted beans, legumes & grains

🍏 Dried fruits & vegetables

🥬 Fermented foods — kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha

🌊 Seaweed — rich in minerals and antioxidants

Key Nutrients for Skin Health

✨ Antioxidants

These skin superheroes help protect your cells from damage and slow the signs of ageing. Vitamins A, C, and E are especially important for keeping skin smooth and youthful. You’ll find them in abundance in citrus fruits, cantaloupe, berries, bell peppers, spinach, and other fresh produce.

✨ Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)

Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids keep skin soft, supple, and hydrated. They also help absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K, and reduce inflammation. Avocados, olives, flaxseeds, and certain fish are rich in EFAs.

✨ Fibre

A healthy gut means healthy skin. Fibre supports digestion and helps your body remove toxins. Skin issues often link back to sluggish digestion or constipation, so adding fibre-rich raw foods is a great step toward clearer skin.

🥤 Glowing Skin Smoothie

Beauty truly does start from within — and a nutrient-rich smoothie is a delicious way to begin your day. This creamy, tropical blend is full of hydration, antioxidants, and vitamin C for collagen production (the protein that keeps skin firm and plump).

Ingredients:

½ cup plain coconut water (add more if needed)

2 frozen bananas (peeled and sliced)

1 cup chopped pineapple (fresh or frozen)

1 cup chopped mango (fresh or frozen)

2 cups spinach or kale

½ avocado, sliced

Method:

Blend all ingredients until smooth, adjusting liquid to your desired consistency. Pour into a glass, sip slowly, and enjoy the skin-loving goodness.

💚 If you’re dealing with persistent skin concerns or want personalised advice, Christos Miliankos & Tayla Adams are available at North East Naturopathic Group for allergy testing and natural skin management.

Naturopath | Bowen Therapist | Iridologist

For appointments or consultations, visit: North East Naturopathic Group

To explore my courses, head to: christosmili.org.au

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