Meet Sarah: Elix Health Coach + Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Tell us about yourself, where did you study? Where did you grow up?

Born and raised in the suburbs of New York City and spending the majority of my adult life close to nature, my heart yearns for both the hustle of the city and the solitude of nature. I began Chinese Medicine School in NYC at Pacific College of Health and Science and later transferred to the Emperor's College of Traditional Oriental Medicine where I graduated. Currently, I am working towards earning my Doctorate in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine at Pacific College of Health and Science.

I am a taurus/ aries cusp, with capricorn moon and rising. My personality is a mix of earthy sensibility and fiery determination. When not practicing Chinese Medicine I live for road trips, camping, live music, dinner parties, and my best friends.

What brought you into the world of Traditional Chinese Medicine? How has it changed your life?

I discovered Traditional Chinese Medicine through herbalism. I was living off-the-grid through a program called WWOOFing, in the mountains of Southern Colorado. My best friend and I had decided to spend the summer living out of a tent working on an organic farm in one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever had the pleasure of being. My host was a midwife and herbalist, the land was a sacred place for women to give birth. While I didn’t experience a birth, I was fascinated by her room full of herbs and the wise woman knowledge she would share over tea in the garden. It was that summer I learned to live in line with nature. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine has shown me the poetry of our existence. When the moon rises I think of the transition into Yin and when the sun rises I prepare for Yang. I talk slower, breathe deeper, and find medicine all around me.

What do you love most about your work?

I am constantly reminded that everybody, no matter how similar to another, is their own unique person. I love connecting with my patients and seeing how the body has such a strong ability to heal! I always remind my patients, you are the medicine, I’m just the accomplice.  I may be biased but I think being an acupuncturist is the best job in the world.

What advice do you have for incorporating TCM into our lives?

Incorporating TCM into our lives is much easier than it may seem at first glance! It begins with listening to our bodies, what is our internal environment telling us? Simple acts such as wearing socks to keep your feet warm, drinking warm beverages (no ice!), eating and living with the seasons, and practicing mindfulness. There is a simple Daoist, concept of Wu Wei, often translated as "non-action" or "effortless action”. This suggests that sometimes the most effective way to heal is by allowing things to unfold naturally. It doesn't imply complete inactivity but emphasizes working in harmony with the natural order and avoiding unnecessary interference. 

With your expertise, what are some tips for a holistic approach while on your period?

The art of rest! Allow yourself time for relaxation, meditation, or simply lying down. Resting helps conserve energy, allowing the body to recover and balance during this natural cycle. My dietary advice is to avoid excessive consumption of cold and raw foods during menstruation, as they may hinder digestion. Opt for warm, nourishing meals that support Qi and Blood. On that note- stay warm! Keep the lower abdomen and lower back warm during menstruation. Cold can constrict the flow of Blood and Qi, leading to discomfort. Use heating pads, warm baths, or layers of clothing to maintain warmth. Last but not least, listen to your body. Tune in and your body will tell you what it needs.

What happens in a health coaching session?

Each health coaching session is centered around you! I am here to answer any questions you may have around Elix, Cycle Balance, and your menstrual well-being. Remember everybody’s cycle is unique so my only ask is to come as you are and let me be a support system for you. Together we will discuss your concerns, address your questions, and strategize on the impactful small daily actions that can make a significant difference for you.

Who should join a health coaching session?

• Anyone who wants to optimize their menstrual wellness! Menstrual health doesn’t necessarily mean you suffer from gynecological specific conditions.  
  
  
• Anyone who wants to maximize their Cycle Balance usage and goals.
  
  
• Anyone who wants to address their health from a Eastern medicine perspective and speak with a learn  about how Elix and herbal formulas can benefit you.

About Sarah

Sarah Viducic  L.Ac, Dipl.OM, MSOM  is a licensed and board-certified acupuncturist and clinical herbalist. She studied Traditional Chinese Medicine in both New York City and Los Angeles. While working on sustainable farms across the country, Sarah discovered a deep interest in the connection between humans and nature. In her practice, Sarah uses the principles of the five elements, to comprehend our inherent physical connections to the natural world. This ideology guides her in addressing imbalances within the body. Sarah takes special interest in the treatment of psycho-emotional disorders and women’s health. 

This article was reviewed by Dr. Liem Le.