5 Common Nutrient Deficiencies + How To Spot Them Quickly

Balancing our complex nutrient needs and avoiding nutrient deficiencies can be challenging these days. It is all too easy to grab quick and convenient foods over the healthier, whole food options that better sustain our energy and brain health.

Kavita Desai, Pharm. D. is a tireless advocate for women's health and wants more of us to understand the unique impact these health and lifestyle factors can have on our health.

After a decade and a half in a hospital and community-based pharmacy setting,  Desai launched a private integrated clinical pharmacy and medical center in 2006. She is also the founder of female-focused wellness brand, Revivele, an educational platform dedicated to putting women at the forefront of the health conversation when it comes to disease prevention and cognitive health.

Developing nutrient deficiencies from a poor or imbalanced diet can effect our overall health and put us at greater risk for disease. Here are a few of the common deficiencies that many people experience and what you can do about it...

Vitamin D Deficiency

Why Do We Need It?
Vitamin D is, in fact, a hormone not a vitamin! It is essential for many bodily functions such as
immunity, brain function, sleep, mental health and has antioxidant properties. But most
importantly, we need vitamin D to help with proper absorption of calcium.

Symptoms of low vitamin D:
Anxiety and depression, bone pain, impaired wound healing, hair loss, muscle weakness, or
getting sick more frequently.

Where to get vitamin D:
Vitamin D3 (the active form of vitamin D) is converted in our skin with regular, daily exposure to
UV light from the sun. It can also be obtained from foods such as oily fish (such as mackerel
and salmon), egg yolks, beef liver and vitamin D fortified foods. Due to the significant health
benefits of vitamin D, and the difficulty to obtain by diet or UV exposure alone, it is
recommended to supplement daily based on your blood levels.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids Deficiency

Why Do We Need It?
Omega 3 fatty acids can come from plant and fish sources. EPA and DHA are the two most
crucial omega 3’s found in fatty fish. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) is found in plant based foods
such as nuts and seeds.

Your body needs these fatty acids to function such as balancing triglyceride levels, improving joint stiffness and mental health, and newer research is even beginning to show how beneficial EPA and DHA are for brain health preventing cognitive decline.

Symptoms of low Omega 3: 
Irritated and/or dry skin, depression, dry eyes, joint pain, poor memory, and dry/brittle hair.

Where to get omega 3 fatty acids:
For EPA and DHA, the best food source is fatty fish. Due to potentially high mercury content in
larger fish, aim for smaller fish sources such as sardines, and anchovies more often than larger
fish such as salmon. Plant based sources of ALA include chia seeds, walnuts, and soybeans.

Iron Deficiency

Why Do We Need It?
Iron is a mineral that aids in the production of hemoglobin, which helps transport oxygen via our
red blood cells throughout our body, and is also involved in the production of some hormones. A
shortage of iron in the body can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which can be quite serious for
overall wellbeing.

Symptoms of low iron:
Fatigue, weakness, low energy, reduced concentration and memory, pale skin, inability to
maintain body temperature, hair loss, spoon shaped nails, poor immunity, and restless leg
syndrome.

Where to get iron:
Animal based sources (heme based) are better absorbed than plant based iron sources
(non-heme based). Therefore vegetarians should be sure to consume far more iron containing
foods than meat eaters. Some great sources of iron include liver, red meat, poultry, seafood,
kidney beans, spinach, pumpkin seeds, and nuts. If blood levels show a significantly low iron
level, iron supplementation may be necessary.

Magnesium Deficiency

Why Do We Need It?
Magnesium can be found in every cell in your body, and is essential for bone health, conversion
of food into usable energy, formation of proteins within the body, repair of DNA and RNA,
muscle contraction and relaxation, and optimal nervous system function.

Symptoms of low magnesium:
Muscle cramps, numbness or weakness, loss of appetite, and nausea or vomiting. More severe
deficiencies can lead to seizures, heart rhythm changes and a range of chronic diseases such
as Alzheimer’s disease, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Where to get magnesium:
Foods rich in magnesium include pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, spinach, almonds, edamame,
salmon, halibut, and avocado.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency

Why Do We Need It?
Vitamin B12 plays an important role in red blood cell formation, nerve function, production of DNA and cell metabolism. Our bodies cannot make it on its own, therefore it is crucial that we obtain it from food sources or supplementation.

Symptoms of low B12:
Extreme fatigue and lack of energy, anemia, a feeling of pins and needles, mouth ulcers,
disturbed vision, mood changes, and nerve damage.

Where to get vitamin B12:
Vitamin B12 is predominantly found in food from animal sources such as organ meats, sardines,
beef, tuna, salmon and eggs. Therefore, fortified foods (cereals or nutritional yeast) or
supplementation is recommended for anyone at risk of a B12 deficiency such as vegans or
vegetarians.

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The Founders of SoulCycle Launch A Meaningful New Concept (No Tap Backs Involved)

In 2006, the concept of a dark room full of bikes was a tough sell for Soulcycle co-founders, Elizabeth Cutler and Julie Rice. Ten years later, their popular studios defined the wellness space.

Elizabeth and Julie first served as guest editors here on The Chalkboard in 2015. One year later, they sold their blazingly-successful fitness venture and began dreaming up new ways to meet people's modern wellness needs.

Their latest undertaking is called PEOPLEHOOD and mirrors the big shift toward mental health happening in wellness now. Currently in beta, PEOPLEHOOD launches in 2023 with a vibrant physical space in NYC and digital offerings around the country.

As Elizabeth and Julie prepare to launch, we asked the women to share everything we should know about the community they hope to build and the relational health tool they hope to equip so many with...

Names: Elizabeth Cutler and Julie Rice

You might know us from: SoulCycle and our new venture, PEOPLEHOOD.

Our goal with Peoplehood in brief: At PEOPLEHOOD, we spend time listening to ourselves and each other. It’s that simple. We empower you with skills, space and support to build new habits, change communication patterns and create high quality human connections.

The vibe, in 3 words: Communal. Fun. Habit-changing.

How did the pandemic impact the new brand? Pre-pandemic, the overuse of digital devices and social media had already begun to cause increases in loneliness, isolation and social disconnection. Three years of a global pandemic exacerbated this trend and now we find ourselves in a world that needs PEOPLEHOOD more than ever.

What should people expect from a session?

We have two ways to Gather:
+ Peoplehood: come solo, meet new people, make time to process life & hear yourself think.
+ Couplehood: come with your partner; enjoy intentional time with the person that matters most to you.

Our 60-minute guided group conversations are called PEOPLEHOOD Gathers. In those sessions each of us gets a chance to talk freely and listen deeply, and are led by trained Guides who are connection superstars.

PEOPLEHOOD Gathers take place in our digital (or NYC) sanctuary and are filled with feel-good music, de-stressing breathwork, thought provoking prompts and many “aha moments”. Together, we create high quality human connections.

drop some compelling stats on mental health and social connection for us? We believe that healthy relationships are the key factor in achieving both mental and physical health.

While you’ll come away from PEOPLEHOOD feeling good, this isn’t just a feel-good experience — our Gathers are based on the modern science of connection and infused with ancient global traditions to provide an antidote to today’s social climate crisis.

Healthy relationships are better indicators of long and happy lives than social class, IQ or genes; on the flip side, loneliness kills: it’s as powerful as smoking or alcoholism (Harvard Study of Adult Development).

4 in 10 American adults agree with the statement “I feel that I do not have close personal relationships with other people.” (CIGNA Loneliness Survey) This survey happened in 2020, before the pandemic!

How do you expect people to engage peoplehood? We’ve done a lot of thinking about how users will engage with experiences in a post-Covid world.

We’re building both an IRL space as well as a digital product so Members can engage with the product anytime, anywhere depending on what they’re in the mood for.

PEOPLEHOOD is a Practice. Joining our Gathers on a weekly basis will help you change old patterns, build healthier relationships and create long term habitual change.

Our physical space will have a coffee shop, retail, special events and the opportunity to meet and mingle with other members. Our digital space will feature our same amazing Guides with great music, and a differentiated digital atmosphere.

How is this different from traditional talk therapy? We love therapy, but that’s not what we do. PEOPLEHOOD offers peer-to-peer support with no advice, opinions or solutions. We learn and practice tangible skills people can take into their daily lives.

Drop some perspective for those who are hesitant to speak candidly with a group... First, before you enter the PEOPLEHOOD space Participants will see and agree to our People Pledge (rules and guidelines) that everyone must commit to. There is no judgment and everyone is welcome.

Our People Pledge is this:
Confidentiality is a promise we make to each other.
Everyone belongs here.
Our job is to listen and just be there for each other.
Interrupting, advice, and opinions are left at the door.

Second, our amazing Guides always share first, warming up the room and permissioning people to feel more comfortable in the space before it even gets to their turn.

And finally, each week we create prompts for members to answer and they have the ability to answer them in whatever way they’d like. There’s no pressure to bear your soul or break down and cry. Sometimes we simply share something good that happened to us. PEOPLEHOOD meets you where you’re at.

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Dip These Fig + Pistachio Almond Flour Scones Into Your Coffee

years ago, When we first began talking about grain and gluten-free baking, sourcing ingredients and recipes was rough. Now, in 2022, we actually have a "scone section" in our healthy baking content. Gluten-free baking has come a long way and things are looking up for people with specialized diets.

Let this delicious fall scone recipe from Dr. Anna Cabeca trip you right into the kitchen for your first baking endeavor of the season. We recommend them smeared with grass-fed butter, coconut butter or this dreamy honey jam.

This recipe is one of many goodies from MenuPause by Dr. Anna Cabeca, a gorgeously illustrated look into how menopause is treated globally. Diet being the number-one way to reduce symptoms and ease the transition.

Almond Flour Scones with Pistachio + Fig

For a great dessert or breakfast, you can’t go wrong with a scone. The pastry has been enjoyed in Scotland since 1513, and its name probably derives from the Dutch word for “bread.” A scone is a baked good, usually made with wheat flour and butter. I use almond flour instead to reduce the carbs and increase the nutrition. I add figs and pistachios here to sweeten the scones and give them a bit of crunch.

Ingredients:
2½ cups almond flour
½ teaspoon sea salt
½ teaspoon baking soda
⅓ cup coconut oil, melted
¼ cup honey
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup chopped dried figs, plus some for garnish
½ cup roughly chopped pistachios

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the almond flour, salt, and baking soda.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the oil, honey, eggs, and vanilla. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry until thoroughly combined. Fold in the ½ cup of figs and the pistachios.
Place the dough on the baking sheet and shape into a rectangle about 1 inch thick. Cut into squares and then cut the squares diagonally into triangular wedges.
Separate the wedges so they are about 1 inch apart to allow for even cooking. Press a few pieces of fig into the top of each wedge.
Bake for 12 to 17 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in a scone comes out clean. Let cool for 30 minutes on the baking sheet, then serve.

Read Next: Roasted Pistachio Pumpkin Muffins With Coconut Butter

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The Best Vitamins for Kids: Do They Need Them (and Which Ones)?

Allison Oswald is a board-certified women's health doctor of physical therapy and the secret weapon of mothers across Los Angeles looking to prep or recoup from birth and beyond. We find ourselves turning to Allison for all thing mom-related and asked her to review our latest kids wellness obsession, Hiya...  

As a women’s health practitioner, I know the importance of optimizing my immune system. Over the years I have guided women across their lifespan to do the same. But, when I became a mother, that focus grew exponentially. It was no longer all about me (and my husband), but about passing on healthy habits to my growing boys.

Pretty naturally, our three boys have picked up on the wellness practices that are threaded through our family life. Things such as the importance of sleep, hydration, exercise, expressing emotion and fueling our bodies with nutritious food.

I love to cook for my family, so that part of my children's nutrition hasn't been a challenge for me. But I know that, these days, diet is often not enough, which is where supplements need to come into the picture.

Finding the best vitamins to support my kids' developing bodies is where I have found myself struggling the most. Being introduced to the new children's vitamin brand Hiya was something of a godsend.
The Best Vitamins for Kids: Do They Need Them (and Which Ones)?

Most of the vitamins I’ve tried for my kids -- and I feel like I have tried them all! -- are filled with sugars, fillers and dyes. Just take a look at what you have in your cupboard right now, you might be shocked, I know I was when I first received our first month of Hiya.

I have stood dazed in the vitamin aisle time and time again searching for a vitamin without as much sugar as a piece of candy. That said, they still need to taste good so that my kids will actually eat them daily!

I've never been able to find a kid's multivitamin that has all the key ingredients they need -- and none of the ingredients they don't.

Thankfully, there were two dads that were in the same predicament as I was. Instead of walking away or settling for something low quality, they actually did something about the kid's supplement issue. Together, the founders of Hiya created a kid’s multivitamin parents can easily get behinid. Hiya checks all the boxes for me:

+ A chewable multivitamin with no sugar added

+ Pressed with a blend of 12 organic veggies and fruits

+ 15 essential vitamins and minerals based on modern guidelines…they’ve done the work to know what kids really need.

+ Sweetened with only monk fruit and mannitol (Most kids consume way too much sugar!)

+ Hiya is non-GMO, vegan, dairy-free, allergy-free, gelatin-free, nut-free and everything else you can imagine.

+ Tastes delicious (My kids say that they taste like Sweet Tarts!)

Our first Hiya order came in a super cute glass bottle. Not only is your child's bottle refillable, but they can decorate it with the fun stickers that are included. These are a game changer! It’s always the little things like this that get kids excited.

Eco-friendly refills delivered right to your door when you need them...

Hiya was formulated with nutritional experts to fill the gaps in the modern kid’s diet. It is supercharged with fifteen essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, B12, C, Zinc, Folate, and many others to help support immunity, energy, brain function, mood, concentration, teeth, bones, and more. All of this is pediatrician approved, which gives me such peace of mind and satisfaction. You can feel confident about giving your children what is best

I also really love the refillable glass bottle (1 customizable bottle per child) because it means less waste and more freshness. I have come to learn that vitamins can lose their efficacy over time when left on the shelf or in a warehouse for too long, so the monthly delivery eliminates that concern completely. It also saves me a trip to the store, giving me extra time to do ALL the things. Anything that gives me time and I don’t have to think about it is a true gift.

Hiya has become part of our family’s wellness routine. I can feel confident giving it to all my boys knowing they are being supported. They actually like the taste of Hiya and most of the time are the ones reminding me to give it to them in the morning! So if you’re in the same boat as me, and would rather stay out of the overwhelming and dissatisfying vitamin aisle, I could not recommend Hiya for your family more.

Shop your first Hiya order for 50% off when you use code CHALKBOARD

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Talking About Birth with Doula Carson Meyer Who Is Pregnant Herself

"Unfortunately, our culture views pregnancy and birth as a medical event instead of the healthy and empowering physiological life transformation it really is", says doula Carson Meyer.

Carson, a nutrition consultant, birth doula and the founder of C & The Moon, is pregnant herself for the first time this season. As a staunch advocate for 'mother-led birth', we asked Carson to talk with us about how she's feeling and what she's learning as she preps for the miraculous experience she's witnessed herself many times...

Carson, tell us about your doula philosophy in brief. I've heard some of your birth stories and they're always so empowering of the mother... 

As a doula, I support parents through pregnancy, birth and postpartum by offering nutrition consulting, community support, resources and education around the many choices they have.

I don't believe there is a one-size-fits-all approach to life. Birth is life and the journey is unique for each of us.

Unfortunately, our culture views pregnancy and birth as a medical event instead of the healthy and empowering physiological life transformation it really is. I am passionate about helping mothers to reframe cultural narratives, fears and dogmas around birth so that they can approach this sacred time from a place of peace and confidence that brings them closer to themselves, their little ones and their inherent strength.

You are a wealth of knowledge when it comes to having a "mother-owned birth". What are 3 to 5 things you want every birthing mother to know?

01 There is no such thing as "I am not allowed", "My doctor is making me", "I have to". You always have choice. You always know best.

02 Standard of care is not the same as evidence-based care. Many routine practices in place in hospitals are not rooted in evidence but rather in liability, fear, convenience and protocol.

03 Your body is built for this. Your baby is built for this. You are both so wise. Trust.

04 Oxytocin, the love hormone, helps facilitates labor, breastfeeding and postpartum recovery. Birth where and how you feel safest and create an environment of uninterrupted peace and support. The role of oxytocin is concrete proof that birth is safer when we honor the needs and feelings of mothers.

05 Check out Little Honey Money for your shower registry. New mamas and babies need good support above all else.

How does it feel to be pregnant for the first time after helping so many others give birth? Has the experience changed any of your philosophy? 

I have so much gratitude for the mamas I have had the privilege of working with. Each and every one of them has taught me so much and I know my pregnancy would not be the same without the wisdom and experience they brought to my life.

No two pregnancies, births, babies are ever the same. Getting to be exposed to so many different approaches to mothering has helped shape my path and allowed for a deep sense of trust in the process.

I am sure that being pregnant myself has changed some of my philosophy. In fact, my philosophy is often different from that of the women I work with, but I do my best to keep my personal views and role as a doula separate from one another. I never want my clients to feel my views being imposed on them. Instead, I want to hold up a mirror for them to find their best way.

What has been important to you nutritionally over the past few months?

Organ Meats, salmon roe, fermented foods, homemade broth. Foods rich in iron, omegas, collagen and probiotics.

What have been some of the most important lifestyle behaviors for you during pregnancy?

Meditation, movement, massage and gardening have been important lifestyle enhancers during this pregnancy.

I moved from LA to the mountains of North Carolina shortly before getting pregnant. It has been such a wonderful place to nest through pregnancy. I know my nervous system has really benefited from the slower pace and from planting roots in a home of our own.

Although I still work virtually I chose to stop my in-person doula practice for the time being so that I could focus on prioritizing my own pregnancy and rest through this time.

What messages for mothers have you felt more passionate about sharing since you've been pregnant?

There is not a one-size-fits-all care model. You get to customize your prenatal care, birth and postpartum experience to benefit you and your family! This may mean doing more research, asserting yourself in ways you were not conditioned to do, and taking responsibility for your choices.

This is such a potent time to break old patterns, trust your intuition and get comfortable in your power. No expert knows better than you.

There is no such thing as eliminating risk in pregnancy altogether. Uncertainty is a healthy part of the process that prepares you for the ultimate surrender of motherhood. This narrative that a sense of certainty comes only from one way of birthing or mothering is false. You deserve attentive, compassionate care that honors your right to informed consent every step of the way and puts you at the center of every decision. You deserve a village of loving support.

Every birthing experience is as unique as life itself. Birth is an opportunity for growth, learning and rebirth in every way.

Your favorite books on the topic?

Your Baby Your Way by Jennifer Margulis, Nourishing Traditions For Baby and Child Care by Sally Fallon and Safe Infant Sleep by James Makenna

You have been a part of so many special births. What has been the most important to you in preparation for your own?

In many ways, I feel like my six years as a doula has been my preparation. My experience as a doula has really allowed me to embark on my own journey with a lot of knowledge, support and trust so that I can enjoy the process and be more present.

I have been preparing my mind and body by slowing down, making healthy nutrition and lifestyle choices and working through emotional blocks. Letting go of other people's birth stories to carve out space for my own has also been important.

My partner and I are taking hypnobirth classes from Nina Phelan which I know will help him help me in the moment. I have also shared a lot of 'Indie Birth' content with him so he feels as informed and prepared as possible.

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Eating For Fertility: A Full Day of Nourishing Meals (And Snacks!)

Laura Fletcher, CD (DONA) is the founder of Selah Fertility and author of the upcoming book The Grace in Grief: Healing and Hope After Miscarriage. Through her own journey with PCOS, Endometriosis and MTHFR, Laura has made it her mission to equip individuals with the tools they need to optimize their health and fertility...

When most people think of nutrition as it relates to reproduction, they think of what to eat (or avoid) during pregnancy; however, nutrition prior to conception is incredibly important. I like to think about fertility as an extension of our overall wellness and nutrition as a vital part of that wellness.

Of foremost importance when eating for fertility is eating real, whole, nutrient dense foods in their most unadulterated state. For egg and sperm quality, I recommend focusing on protein, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and antioxidant rich vegetables and fruits.

Upon waking...

Drink a glass of warm water with fresh lemon juice or apple cider vinegar and a scoop of high-quality collagen.

A High-Protein Breakfast

Try this Ham and Cheese Omelet with Sautéed Spinach and Berries. Modify it any way you like with nutrient-dense and high-protein ingredients.

Ingredients:
1 teaspoon high quality avocado oil
2 large pasture raised organic eggs
3 oz sliced heritage ham
2 oz raw milk cheddar
2 cups organic fresh spinach
¼ cup organic blueberries
1 teaspoon Celtic sea salt

Directions:
Heat non-toxic pan (we prefer cast iron or stainless steel) at a medium heat.
Once pan is hot, add avocado oil
Beat eggs and pour into pan once oil is hot (should be shimmering)
Once eggs start to cook on the edges, add sliced ham and cheese
Once cheese starts to melt, fold half of omelet onto itself
Slide omelet onto a plate and throw the cup on spinach into the hot pan. Drizzle with additional oil if necessary and cover for two minutes on low heat.
Sprinkle salt onto the spinach once on the plate
Serve with blueberries and enjoy!

Midmorning Snack:

Go with a smoothie like this Avocado Coconut Milk Smoothie. Packed with healthy fats, greens and energizing superfoods!

Ingredients:
½ organic avocado
½ cup organic coconut milk (try to get one without guar gum!)
½ banana
1 teaspoon of bee pollen
1 teaspoon of local raw honey
½ cup of mixed organic berries
½ cup of organic bone broth
1 tablespoon of spirulina powder
½ cup of cooked beets

Directions:
Add ingredients to blender and blend until emulsified
Enjoy!

Nutrient-Dense Lunch:

This recipe might sound unusual, but this Salmon Salad Stuffed Sweet Potato is truly addictive. Complex carbs, omega-rich salmon, plus nutritious yogurt and veggies make for a balanced meal that won't weigh you down.

Ingredients:
4-6oz wild caught salmon
3 tablespoon high quality avocado oil
1 oz olives
½ oz capers
2 tbsp Greek yogurt
1 sweet potato
1 tsp Celtic sea salt

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees
Coat salmon in avocado oil and salt and place skin down on parchment paper lined baking tray
Coat sweet potato in avocado oil
Bake salmon at 400 degrees for 15-18 minutes
Bake sweet potato at 400 degrees for 45 minutes (flip over halfway through)
Combine all other ingredients and add salmon once it cools
Scoop salmon salad onto baked sweet potato
Enjoy!

Midafternoon Snack

Need a snack? Don't deny yourself. The simple match of sprouted almond butter with an organic apple will hydrate you and keep you energized through long afternoons.

A Balanced Dinner

Pack in the nutritious cruciferous veggies and root veggies with this simple Lamb Chops with Roasted Root Vegetables and Brussels Sprouts...

Ingredients:
6 lamb chops
1 cup seasonal root vegetables (I like to leave the skin on!)
1 cup trimmed and halved brussels sprouts
3 tablespoons of duck fat
Salt to taste

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees
Heat up a cast iron or stainless-steel skillet then add 2 tablespoon duck fat
Salt Brussels sprouts and root vegetables generously and sear in pan until browned on both sides
Move vegetables into oven for 20-25 minutes (flip halfway through)
Heat up a second cast iron or stainless-steel skillet then add 1 tablespoon duck fat
Season lamb chops with salt and sear each side until browned on each side
Allow lamb to rest for 5 minutes before serving

An Evening Snack

Liver pate is wildly nourishing. Try it paired with veggies and fermented veggies for a late night snack that's easy to digest.

Ingredients:
1 lb. pasture raised chicken liver or 1 lb. grass-fed calf liver
½ cup of raw milk cream (or grass-fed cream)
1 medium onion
3 teaspoons fresh Italian herbs (rosemary or thyme work well)
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 teaspoons of Celtic sea salt
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
¼ cup of duck fat
3 cloves of crushed garlic

Directions:
Heat up a cast iron or stainless-steel skillet then add duck fat
Add garlic and onion to the pan
Once onion is slightly translucent, add mushrooms, liver, salt, and herbs
Move everything to blender and use vinegar and milk to deglaze the pan then add contents to the blender
Pulse until a paste forms
Refrigerate or freeze until ready for use
Serve with cucumbers and sauerkraut

Read Next: 10 Helpful Herbs For The Womb In All Its Stages

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Journalling Prompts for The Full Moon In Aries October 9

MARIAH K. LYONS is an author, designer, crystal healer, intuitive and herbalist based in Los Angeles, CA. She is the founder of the luxury grounding footwear company ASTARA and best-selling author of Crystal Healing for Women.

Journalling Prompts for The Full Moon In Aries

SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE… This Sunday at 12:56 pm PST we have a Full Moon in the cardinal fire sign of Aries. It is known as the Hunter’s Moon in the Farmer’s Almanac, speaking to the time before winter of harvesting and hunting all that is needed for a long winter ahead.

This is an opportunity to integrate all that was cleared and healed from the past eclipse season before we move into the next eclipse season in a few weeks. Yes, the next partial solar eclipse is on Oct. 25th. So while the intensity of the energy may not be letting up anytime soon, this Full Moon in Aries is opposite the Sun in Libra, which softens the heat of warrior Aries and highlights the energy of balance and what areas of our lives and relationships we an bring into more balance.

Asteroid Chiron, the wounded healer, is also currently in retrograde in Aries, which may again be highlighting deep wounds that are ready to be healed and integrated, and especially those which may also be keys to work you are going to be doing moving forward or the relationships you are desiring to explore.

Thankfully, Mercury has just gone direct, bringing more forward movement with this Aries Full Moon, so there is an opportunity to work with this energy as literal fuel to move forward with projects and changes.

OVERALL THEMES TO EXPLORE… Action, Surrender, Design

The theme of “design” is coming in as an energetic balance between action and surrender. Oftentimes we can have certain plans for life...and then life seems to have plans of its own. With all of the knowledge and wisdom that has been gleaned over the last few months, alongside all the big life changes and realizations, where can you find that beautiful balance between specific movement forward and surrendering to a larger plan unfolding? Therein lies the living question:

How can you move forward with designs for your life, while leaving space for the unknown and the grand design of the universe? This is the beautiful tension within the Aries Full Moon opposition to the Sun in Libra. Both can exist.

HOW YOU MAY FEEL… Restless, Fatigued, Open

With Mercury moving forward again with this Aries Full Moon, there is an energy of forward motion and change. Funnel this energy into something supportive for you, be that physical movement or taking actionable steps on certain projects that may have felt sluggish the past few weeks.

This is a time to stop fighting the opposition. If you are still holding on to toxic relationships or old patterning, you are most likely feeling exhausted. Notice how much more energy it takes to strain and hold onto what you willfully want to transpire vs. opening to a surrendered place of deep listening and moving forward from grounded and aligned place. That may mean more letting go, so stay aware of what is coming forth.

EXCELLENT TIME TO… Move your body! Dance, run, hike, swim, sing, whatever feels good to move the energy and express it through your physical body.

There is a massive energetic cleansing taking place through the planetary alignments right now so it’s a great time to take extra care of your body through rest, sauna, drinking more spring water, getting a lymphatic massage, etc. We are clearing old pathways both on physical and spiritual levels, and your body may need extra support right now.

If you are finding anger, resentment or past grievances coming up in your relationships, it would be a great time to journal and write them down. Allow the energy to move through you into your writing, before unleashing on someone else. Tempers may flare and emotions may be heightened. Anger is a powerful energy and can be a catalyst for great change when channeled into something purposefully.

Again, this is a time of self mastery, of healing old wounds around relationships, and understanding how to deeply care for yourself and your needs, regardless of who is around you. This ultimately allows you to be a better partner in your romantic relationships, friendships, family and work partnerships.

JOURNALING PROMPT… What is it you want? What is your ideal design for this next season of your life? Where might you be afraid to surrender deeper? What action is needed in your work? What action is needed in your personal care? Is there anything you have been putting off? Can you take the steps necessary to tend to it now? What support is your physical body needing at this time?

The post Journalling Prompts for The Full Moon In Aries October 9 appeared first on The Chalkboard.

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