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Acorn Health Blog

What we love is great health...

...and we like to write about how we can all achieve better health, naturally. Sometimes tips on how you can DIY to better health and sometimes on the therapies that can make a difference to you, your health and wellbeing.
Thank you for reading, We hope you enjoy :)

Celebrating the Autumnal Equinox 22nd September 2025

Therapies, Workshops & Classes Posted on Thu, August 28, 2025 12:33PM

by Ellie Bird

As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, we find ourselves on the cusp of the Autumnal Equinox, a time when day and night are of equal length. This celestial event, often celebrated in September, marks a moment of balance and reflection.

Full Moon – Harvest Moon

The full moon closest to the Autumnal Equinox is known as the Harvest Moon. This moon has been a guiding light for farmers, signalling the time to gather crops and prepare for the colder months ahead. In Pagan traditions, this period is called Mabon, a time for giving thanks for a plentiful harvest and sharing the bounty with others.

Power Animal – Brown Bear

September is also under the star sign of Virgo, a sign known for its meticulous and nurturing nature. Those born under Virgo are often seen as patient, level-headed, and understanding, much like the spirit animal associated with this time, the brown bear. The brown bear symbolizes patience and wisdom, offering guidance and support to those in need.

Spiritually, the bear represents the ability to stand strong in the face of adversity. It teaches individuals to harness their inner power and to face challenges head-on with courage and determination 

The brown bear, with its rich symbolism, offers profound insights into strength, introspection, and the cycles of life. Whether encountered in dreams, cultural stories, or as a personal totem, the brown bear serves as a powerful guide and protector.

Self-care practices for September

As we transition into autumn, it’s essential to take care of ourselves both physically and mentally. Here are some self-care practices to consider for September:

  1. Nourish Your Body: As the season changes, so do our dietary needs. Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables into your meals. Think apples, pumpkins, and root vegetables. These foods are not only nutritious but also comforting.
  2. Stay Active: Keep your body moving with regular exercise. Whether it’s yoga, running, or dancing, find an activity that you enjoy and make it a part of your routine. Exercise releases endorphins, which can boost your mood.
  3. Create a Cozy Space: As the weather gets cooler, create a warm and inviting space in your home. Light some candles, use soft blankets, and make your environment a place where you can relax and unwind.
  4. Connect with Loved Ones: Spend quality time with family and friends. Whether it’s a phone call, a video chat, or a socially distanced meet-up, connecting with loved ones can provide emotional support and strengthen relationships.
  5. Practice Gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your mindset and help you focus on the positive aspects of your life.

Remember, self-care is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Find what works best for you and make it a priority. Wishing you a peaceful and rejuvenating September! 🍂😊

Tarot Card for September

In the realm of Tarot, the card associated with this period is The Hierophant. This card represents a teacher, mentor, or guide who is in tune with their spiritual side. The Hierophant encourages us to seek knowledge, embrace our spiritual journey, and share our wisdom with others.

The Hierophant card in Tarot is rich with symbolism and meaning. It represents spiritual wisdom, religious beliefs, and the importance of tradition and institutions. Often depicted as a religious figure or teacher, the Hierophant is seen as a guide who helps others understand and embrace spiritual teachings.

When the Hierophant card appears upright in a reading, it signifies the need for structure, guidance, and adherence to established systems of belief. It encourages seeking spiritual knowledge, finding a sense of belonging within a community, and honouring the wisdom passed down through generations. This card suggests that you may benefit from working with a mentor or teacher who can provide you with the knowledge and support you need on your spiritual journey.

In its reversed position, the Hierophant card can indicate a rebellion against tradition, questioning authority, and seeking alternative beliefs. It may suggest a desire to break free from dogma and explore personal spiritual paths that differ from established norms.

Overall, the Hierophant card invites you to explore spiritual teachings, respect tradition, and seek wisdom from trusted sources. It encourages you to find a balance between the conscious and subconscious minds and to unlock the mysteries of the divine.



Embracing the Spiritual Essence of August

General Health & Wellbeing, Therapies Posted on Thu, July 31, 2025 09:38AM

by Ellie Bird

As we step into the month of August, we find ourselves at a unique crossroads. This is a time of harvest abundance, a period where the fiery energy of summer begins to shift towards the cooler, more introspective months of autumn. It’s a moment to slow down, rest, and reconnect with ourselves and our family or communities.

August is not just a transition in seasons; it’s a spiritual time for change and letting go of what no longer serves us. It’s an opportunity to release old patterns, memories, and anything that may be weighing us down. This month encourages us to embrace transformation and to welcome new beginnings with open arms.

The star signs of Leo and Virgo dominate August, bringing with them a blend of creativity, leadership, and practicality. Leo, symbolized by the lion, inspires us to be bold and courageous, to lead with our hearts and to express our true selves. Virgo, on the other hand, grounds us with its practical and meticulous nature, reminding us to pay attention to the details and to approach life with a sense of purpose and organization.

The number 8 holds significant spiritual meaning in August. It represents balance, harmony, and the infinite cycle of life. This number encourages us to find equilibrium in our lives, to seek harmony in our relationships, and to trust in the natural flow of the universe.

August’s full moon, known as the Sturgeon Moon, is a powerful time for reflection and manifestation. It’s a moment to look within, to acknowledge our deepest desires, and to set intentions for the future. The energy of the Sturgeon Moon supports us in our journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.

In the realm of tarot, the card for August is Strength. This card symbolizes inner power, resilience, and the ability to overcome challenges with grace and compassion. It reminds us that true strength comes from within and that we have the capacity to face any obstacles that come our way.

Power Animal for the month: The Lion

To further enhance our spiritual journey in August, we can connect with the power animal of the month: the lion. The lion embodies courage, strength, and leadership. By channelling the energy of the lion, we can find the bravery to face our fears, the strength to overcome challenges, and the leadership to guide ourselves and others with confidence and integrity.

Self-Care Practices for August

  1. Creative Expression: Engage in creative activities that bring you joy, such as painting, drawing, writing, or playing music. Allow your creativity to flow freely and use it as a means of self-expression and healing.
  2. Physical Exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Whether it’s yoga, dancing, running, or any other form of exercise, moving your body can help release tension and boost your mood.
  3. Healthy Eating: Nourish your body with wholesome, nutritious foods. Focus on eating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Staying hydrated is also essential for maintaining your overall well-being.
  4. Rest and Relaxation: Make sure to get enough rest and relaxation. Prioritize sleep and create a calming bedtime routine. Allow yourself to unwind and recharge, so you can face each day with renewed energy.
  5. Connecting with Loved Ones: Spend quality time with family and friends. Strengthen your connections and share your thoughts and feelings with those you trust. Building a supportive community can enhance your sense of belonging and well-being.

As we navigate through August, let us embrace its spiritual essence. Let us honour the cycles of nature, release what no longer serves us, and step into our power with courage and grace. This is a time for transformation, for reconnecting with our true selves, and for embracing the abundant blessings that life has to offer.

May this August be a month of spiritual growth, inner peace, and profound transformation for all of us. 🌟

Ellie



What Your Body Might Be Telling You About Your Beliefs

General Health & Wellbeing, Therapies Posted on Thu, May 22, 2025 10:28AM

by Anne-Marie Allen

Have you ever had a persistent ache or tension that doesn’t respond to rest, stretching, or even medical advice? Or maybe you’ve felt emotional or drained in a particular part of your body without an obvious cause. These sensations might be more than just physical—they could be the result of unspoken emotions and limiting beliefs that your body is holding onto.

In my work as a reflexologist, aromatherapist, and energy healer, I see this connection every day. The body is wise. It often reveals what the conscious mind has buried. Sometimes, what seems like a purely physical issue can have deeper energetic or emotional roots. And by gently exploring those layers, we open the door to real, lasting healing—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually too.

Beliefs Don’t Just Live in Your Mind

We often think of beliefs as mental constructs—thoughts we’ve repeated so often they feel like truth. But beliefs are energetic too. When you’ve held onto a belief for years—like “I’m not good enough” or “I have to do everything alone”—it can settle into your energy field and eventually into your body.

The body can’t lie. It will often reflect the stories we tell ourselves. And while not all physical symptoms are rooted in beliefs, many are linked to emotional or energetic imbalances that want to be acknowledged and healed.

Here are just a few ways limiting beliefs might be showing up physically:

• Throat issues (tightness, recurring sore throats, thyroid imbalance) can be linked to not feeling safe to speak your truth or express yourself freely.

• Digestive problems may relate to “gut feelings” you’ve ignored, or difficulties in “digesting” past experiences and emotions.

• Lower back pain often reflects fears around security, money, or lack of support—especially when we’re carrying responsibilities we haven’t shared.

• Tension in the shoulders and neck can indicate the weight of “shoulds,” obligations, and perfectionism.

• Chronic fatigue or heaviness in the body can be rooted in beliefs like “life is hard” or “I’m not allowed to rest.”

These examples aren’t diagnoses—they’re invitations to get curious and explore what your body may be trying to tell you.

The Body as a Mirror for Your Inner World

When we begin to view symptoms and patterns through a holistic lens, we realise how everything is connected—mind, body, energy, and spirit.

In reflexology, I often notice imbalances in areas that correlate with emotional stress. For example, the adrenal reflexes (linked to our stress response) are nearly always tender in clients who are constantly “on” and struggling to feel safe slowing down.

In aromatherapy, certain essential oils work not only on the physical body but also energetically. For instance, frankincense supports deep emotional release and connection to spirit, while lavender can soothe both the nervous system and the inner child.

And in energy healing sessions, it’s not uncommon for clients to experience emotional release when I work with certain chakras. Tears might flow when clearing the heart, or sudden clarity might arise during work on the solar plexus (your personal power centre). This is the body and soul working in harmony—releasing old stories and making space for something new.

Healing Starts with Awareness

So how do you begin listening to your body and uncovering the beliefs that may be affecting your well-being?

Start with gentle curiosity:

• What part of my body is calling for attention right now?

• When did this symptom begin, and what was going on in my life emotionally or mentally at the time?

• What might this area represent emotionally or energetically?

Journaling these reflections can be incredibly powerful. You might also try placing your hands over the area, breathing deeply, and asking, “What are you trying to tell me?”

Sometimes, simply acknowledging the emotional layer behind a symptom can begin the healing process.

Tools to Support You

I created a free ebooklet called Limitless to help you gently uncover and release the limiting beliefs you may not even realise you’re carrying. It’s full of soul-led guidance and is the perfect starting point for anyone ready to align with their true potential.

You can download it here:

https://annemarie-soulsanctuary.com/limitless

This kind of inner work can feel vulnerable—but you don’t have to go it alone. That’s why I combine energy healing with grounded support through reflexology and aromatherapy, creating safe and nurturing spaces for real transformation. Every treatment is tailored to your unique energy and soul path, gently helping your body let go of what it’s been holding onto for far too long.

You Deserve to Feel Free—In Your Body and Your Life

You are not meant to live in pain, tension, or emotional heaviness. Your body is a sacred vessel, guiding you back to your truth.

If you’ve been struggling with unexplained symptoms, emotional ups and downs, or a sense that something is “off,” it may be time to look within. Your body might just be holding the key.

When we honour the messages of the body and align with our soul’s wisdom, everything begins to shift—from the inside out.

If you feel called to explore this further, I’d love to support you through a treatment or soul alignment session.

With love and healing,

Anne Marie

Soul Alignment & Manifestation Mentor

Reflexologist | Aromatherapist | Energy Healer & Teacher

annemarie-soulsanctuary.com



How to Spot and Shift the Beliefs That Are Secretly Holding You Back

General Health & Wellbeing, Therapies Posted on Thu, April 24, 2025 10:57AM

by Anne-Marie Allen

Have you ever felt like you’re doing all the right things—saying the affirmations, setting your intentions, working hard—and yet, somehow, things still don’t quite change?

More often than not, it’s not because you’re not trying hard enough. It’s because there are quiet, invisible forces shaping your choices: your beliefs.

Some of these beliefs are empowering. But others—often formed in childhood or through past experiences—can quietly keep you stuck, playing small, or doubting yourself… without you even realizing it.

So how do you spot them? And more importantly, how do you shift them?

Here’s a quick guide to get started:

1. Listen to Your Inner Dialogue

Your internal dialogue is like a window into your belief system. Pay attention to how you speak to yourself, especially in moments of stress or when you’re reaching for something new.

Do you hear things like:

• “I’m not good enough.”

• “It always goes wrong.”

• “People like me can’t have that kind of life.”

These are red flags—clues pointing to beliefs that might be limiting your potential.

2. Trace It Back

Once you’ve noticed a recurring negative thought, ask yourself: Where did this come from? Was it something you heard growing up? A belief that served you once but no longer does?

Many of us are running on outdated programming. Just identifying where it came from can loosen its grip.

3. Challenge and Reframe

Next, try reframing. Ask yourself: Is this belief really true? Is it true 100% of the time?

Instead of “I never get things right,” try:

“I am learning as I go, and that’s okay.”

Or shift “I’m not good enough” to:

“I am worthy, just as I am—and growing every day.”

It may feel unnatural at first, but your brain starts to follow the new pathway with repetition.

4. Tune Into Your Energy

Our beliefs don’t just sit in the mind—they show up in the body, too. Tightness in the chest, a sinking feeling in the stomach, or drained energy can all signal misalignment. Energy work, meditation, and breathwork can help move stuck emotion and clear the space for new beliefs to take root.

5. Go Deeper With Support

Sometimes we need a little help to truly shift old patterns. That’s why I created Limitless—a free guide to help you identify and release limiting beliefs, step into your power, and begin manifesting the life that truly aligns with your soul.

It’s not about becoming someone else—it’s about remembering who you really are beneath the noise.

Ready to feel free, focused, and fully aligned?

Affirmation:

You are not broken. You are powerful beyond measure. You just need to remember who you are—and let go of everything that tells you otherwise.



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