TCM nutritional advice is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It does not consider food in terms of calories or nutrients, but in terms of its energetic effect on the body – i.e. how it influences Qi (life energy), Yin and Yang. The aim is to balance all organ systems through conscious nutrition tailored to the individual.

The five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal and water – are a central concept in TCM. Certain organs, flavors, seasons and emotions are assigned to each element. In nutritional counseling, foods and preparation methods are assigned to these elements in order to target imbalances in the body.

Western nutritional advice focuses on nutrients, macros, calories and biochemical processes. TCM nutritional advice takes a holistic view of the person: body, mind and emotions form a unit. Food is evaluated according to its thermal effect (warming, cooling, neutral) and its influence on the flow of Qi – not according to calorie tables.

Qi (pronounced: chi) is the life energy concept of TCM. It flows through the body via so-called meridians and supplies all organs. In TCM, food is one of the most important sources of Qi. Certain foods strengthen the Qi, others weaken it. The aim of the consultation is to nourish the Qi and support its free flow.

Yin and yang describe opposing, complementary forces. In nutrition, the following applies: yin foods have a cooling, moisturizing and calming effect (e.g. cucumber, tofu, duck). Yang foods have a warming, activating and drying effect (e.g. lamb, ginger, walnuts). Too much or too little of either leads to imbalance – the consultation helps you to find your personal balance again.

TCM is a system of experience that has evolved over thousands of years and differs from Western medicine in terms of methodology and world view. Many TCM concepts are scientifically researched, but are not fully proven according to Western standards. TCM nutritional advice is intended as a complementary, preventative service – in addition to conventional medical care, not a substitute for it.

TCM does not recommend a universal diet – recommendations are always individual and depend on the season and constitution. In general, warm, cooked meals strengthen the center (spleen and stomach). Cold and raw food puts a strain on digestion. Ginger, cinnamon, pulses and seasonal vegetables often play a central role. White sugar, excessive dairy products and cold drinks are often reduced.

TCM adapts dietary recommendations to the seasons: In spring (wood), it recommends light, green vegetables. In summer (fire), slightly cooling foods. In late summer (earth), fortifying cereals. In autumn (metal) moisturizing food. In winter (water) nourishing soups and stews. Eating seasonally and regionally is a basic principle of TCM nutrition.

TCM nutritional advice is suitable for people who feel permanently tired, suffer from digestive problems, want to improve their skin from the inside, as a woman want to understand their body better in every phase of life, want to tackle stress symptoms holistically – or simply want to eat more consciously and in a more suitable way for everyday life without following rigid nutritional plans.

In an initial detailed consultation, current complaints, eating habits, constitution and life situation are discussed. This provides an individual picture of which elements are out of balance. This is followed by specific nutritional impulses that are suitable for everyday life – not rigid plans, but practicable changes. Follow-up appointments accompany the process.

The online consultation works in exactly the same way as a face-to-face meeting – via video call. An appointment is made in advance and the process is identical to face-to-face counseling. Many clients appreciate the flexibility: no travel, counseling from home, bookable throughout Germany.

TCM nutritional advice from Iris Holzinger is available in Nördlingen (Donau-Ries district), in Aalen (Ostalbkreis district) and nationwide online via video call. Online consultations offer full flexibility and are identical in content to on-site consultations.

Booking is easy: via the contact form, by email to tcm_imeinklang@web.de or via Instagram @tcm_qigong_mit_iris. An initial, non-binding introductory meeting is possible to clarify whether the offer suits your own goals.

Yes – and this combination is particularly effective. Qigong activates and regulates the flow of Qi through movement and breathing exercises. TCM nutrition nourishes the Qi from within. Together, the two methods have a synergistic effect. Both methods are offered at Im Einklang and can be booked individually or in combination.

Naturally. TCM nutritional advice is suitable for everyone, regardless of gender and age. Although the advice at Im Einklang is aimed particularly at women in different phases of life, it is generally open to anyone who wants to support their body holistically and consciously.

Yes, from a TCM perspective, skin health is closely related to the lungs, large intestine and spleen. Acne and blemishes can indicate heat-dampness or Qi deficiency. Targeted dietary adjustments – e.g. reducing spicy and fatty foods, strengthening the detoxification organs – can have a positive effect on the skin from within.

In TCM, chronic fatigue is often interpreted as spleen qi deficiency – the spleen is responsible for converting food into energy. A spleen-friendly diet (warm, light, regular) can noticeably increase energy levels. Stress, cold and excessive raw food are considered to be harmful to the spleen and are discussed in the consultation.

Yes, in TCM menopausal symptoms are often understood as a yin deficiency of the kidneys. Targeted nourishing, cooling and moisturizing foods – such as black sesame, mulberries and black beans – can support hot flushes, sleep disorders and dryness. The consultation focuses on the individual constitution.

Very good. In TCM, emotions directly influence the organs – and vice versa. Chronic stress puts a particular strain on the liver and heart. Certain foods such as rose petal tea, dark chocolate (in moderation), green vegetables and regular, warm meals help to calm the nervous system and Qi flow. Supplemented by Qigong, this creates an effective combination.

This varies from person to person. Some people report more energy and a better sense of well-being after just a few weeks. For more deeply rooted imbalances, the body needs several months. TCM nutrition is not a quick fix, but a process of mindful change. Regular consultations help to adjust the diet and monitor progress.

The exact prices can be found on the offer page or are available on request by e-mail. An initial non-binding introductory meeting is free of charge – to clarify whether the offer suits your needs.

TCM nutritional advice is not usually reimbursed by statutory health insurance companies. Some private health insurance companies or supplementary insurances cover the costs of complementary health services – it is worth asking your own insurance company. The services are to be understood as preventive and accompanying offers, not a substitute for medical treatment.