Welcome to Holistic Healing – a new feature by Swords-based Chinese medicine practitioner Susan Graham. This month Susan looks at how traditional Chinese Medicine techniques can greatly aid people experiencing fertility issues.
By Susan Graham
A little about myself: I have relocated to Dublin after 34 years away, to be nearer family and grandchildren. My clinical treatments in the West of Ireland was predominantly Pain, Fertility, Fertility Coaching and Clinical Hypnotherapy. I succeeded where others have failed due to the unique techniques I have acquired and used in my practice over many years.
As a Chinese medicine practitioner for nearly 2 decades fertility and pain was my expertise, has its roots stretching back thousands of years, this type of medicine offers a holistic approach to health and wellness, especially in the area of fertility. This ancient system consists of various skills/techniques, including acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and lifestyle changes, all aimed at restoring balance and harmony within the body.
One of the primary benefits of Chinese medicine in enhancing fertility is its focus on regulating the body’s energy, or “Qi.” According to Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), imbalances in Qi can lead to various health issues, including infertility. Acupuncture is often used to stimulate specific points on the body, promoting blood flow to the reproductive organs, while also reducing stress while also balancing your hormones. Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve ovarian function, increase the thickness of the uterine lining, and enhance overall reproductive health even while going through IVF.
Herbal medicine is another important element of TCM that can support fertility. Practitioners often tailor fit herbal formulas to address individual conditions, such as irregular menstrual cycles, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or low sperm count and enhance sperm quality. These natural remedies can help regulate hormonal levels, improve ovulation, and, providing a safe alternative or complement to mainstream fertility treatments.
In addition to these therapies, Chinese medicine emphasises the importance of lifestyle and dietary choices. By favouring a balanced diet rich in nutrients, as well as promoting stress-reduction techniques like Tai Chi or meditation, TCM encourages overall well-being, which is crucial for fertility.
Moreover, the holistic nature of Chinese medicine addresses not just the physical aspects of fertility but also the emotional and psychological factors. Infertility can be a source of significant stress and anxiety; TCM’s focus on emotional well-being which will promote a more positive mindset, which is beneficial for both conception and overall health.
In summary, Chinese medicine offers a comprehensive approach to fertility, combining acupuncture, herbal therapies, and lifestyle modifications to promote reproductive health. Its emphasis on balance and holistic well-being can be a valuable resource for those seeking to enhance their fertility naturally.
www.meizenclinic.com
www.susangrahamcoaching.com
Hello, Lusk Local readers! I’m Dr. Carla Lluch, a veterinarian with experience in both small clinics and large hospitals. I’m thrilled to collaborate with you to share practical advice for keeping your pets happy and healthy.
We’re enjoying glorious sunshine these days—perfect for soaking up vitamin D with our four-legged companions! But as temperatures rise, so do risks for pets. Here’s my summer survival guide to keep your furry family safe:
Age Matters: Senior pets struggle to regulate their body temperature. Avoid long walks in the heat, and always carry fresh water for them.
Health Conditions: Does your pet have heart or respiratory issues? Skip midday walks. Opt for early mornings or late evenings when it’s cooler.
Pavement Check: Place your back of hand on the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws! Stick to grassy, shaded areas.
Cat Cool-Downs
By Jack Shanley
“From the World of John Wick: Ballerina” carves out a compelling, if at times familiar, corner within the revered John Wick universe. Starring Ana de Armas as Eve Macarro, a vengeance-driven assassin, the film embraces the franchise’s signature blend of hyper-stylized action and intricate underworld lore, while attempting to forge its own identity.
The narrative centres on Eve, a ballerina trained in the deadly traditions of the Ruska Roma, as she hunts down those responsible for her father’s murder. The film opens with a brutal flashback, immediately establishing Eve’s profound grief and the genesis of her relentless pursuit of retribution. This personal stake lends emotional weight to the otherwise gloriously chaotic action sequences. De Armas delivers a committed performance, channelling a simmering rage that fuels her character’s every move. The film smartly intercuts gruelling ballet practice with combat drills, visually linking the artistry of dance to the brutal precision of assassination.
Fans of the John Wick saga will find much to appreciate. The familiar neon-drenched aesthetics, the subtle hints at the vast network of assassins, and the strict adherence to the High Table’s rules are all present, enriching the world without overshadowing Eve’s journey. Keanu Reeves also makes a welcome, albeit brief, cameo, effectively passing the torch while maintaining the narrative’s focus on Eve.
Where “Ballerina” truly shines is in its inventive action choreography. From flamethrower duels to ice-skate bayonets, the film consistently delivers fresh and dynamic fight sequences. There’s a particular standout moment where Eve navigates a nightclub, leaving a trail of destruction that forces the audience to “reverse engineer” the unseen carnage. This clever subversion of expectations, coupled with her resourceful use of everyday objects as lethal weapons, keeps the adrenaline flowing.
However, the film isn’t without its minor missteps. The plot, while offering some unexpected turns in its latter half, occasionally veers into the familiar “revenge story” tropes. Some supporting characters, particularly the main antagonist Gabriel Byrne’s Chancellor, feel somewhat underutilized given the talent involved. Despite these small criticisms, I’d recommend checking out “Ballerina” and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of FOUR stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Len Wiseman – Rating: 15A – Genre: Action/Thriller – Run Time: 2h 5m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.
The kids starting their summer holidays are celebrating….. while parents are wondering how they’re going to entertain them for 8 weeks!! So let us help you with some top tips for places to go!
Dublin city has lots to offer. National Concert Hall has great events & concerts. While The National Wax Museum has interactive exhibits the kids will love. Check Mams.ie for Wax Museum Competitions!
For family dining, Shake Dog Diner offers fantastic value for burgers, shakes, hotdogs etc. For delicious Mexican food, Acapulco on Georges St is excellent and very child friendly.
Bracken Court Hotel in Balbriggan has easy access to Dublin via regular trains and buses and they do packages that include Emerald Park, Flynn Park, Funtasia and other fun activities. Plus they’re right beside the beach.
Skypark in Carlingford is brilliant for all the family. I’ve zip lined there, much to my childrens amusement, its so fun! Go to Mams.ireland FB for our Skypark competition. The lovely Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford is nearby and ideal for making a staycation out of your trip!
For a memorable family break, Farnham Estate is wonderful. The spa, golf, indoor/outdoor pool are fabulous and the food is top notch! We love staycations there. The woodland walks are great for kids - look out for squirrels and lots of birds!
Malahide Castle and Gardens is beautiful for picnics and exploring the stunning grounds. They often host events too. And Avoca cafe is a perfect pitstop for yummy cakes & coffees!
Newbridge House & Farm is brilliant for kids who like animals and exploring. Watch out for the peacocks, their colourful feathers are spectacular.
We will have competitions running throughout the summer, for Flormar makeup, Artessa Coffee Beans, Arc Cinema tickets & lots more, so stay tuned to Mams.ireland on FB, Mams.ie on Insta and www.mams.ie
By Dave Kavanagh
When assisting clients plan their finances, a question I have to ask, is, how long (if at all) their employer will pay them if they are out of work long term due to illness or injury. In some cases, it is standard and can be something like 3 months at full pay, then 3 months at half pay and then a pensionable rate of pay. For many, they are not sure and when they look through their employment contract, it states “at employer’s discretion”. Many people realised how vulnerable they were when the pandemic arrived, dropping some incomes from €600, €800 or €1,000+ per week down to €350 of PUP. Many don’t give much consideration to how they would cope if they suffered a loss of income for an extended period because they think “it’ll never happen to me”. Sadly, many find out the hard way following an injury or illness that keeps them out of work for months or even years. This is where having Income Protection in place, can be the difference between maintaining a level of income that keeps your lifestyle virtually unchanged, or dropping to a level that could force you to use up any savings and also get into financial difficulty.
So how does it work? Depending on your circumstances, you choose an appropriate level of cover. This is based on not exceeding 75% of your salary, less any state income entitlement. You also choose a “deferred period” which refers to how long you are off work before payments commence. The premiums are based on factors like your age and occupation, as some occupations would leave you more at risk of not being able to work. There is also tax relief on premiums paid for income protection, which could mean up to 40% of your premium is refunded by way of adjusting your tax credits. If dropping from your current income to the current state benefit is something that would impact badly on you, perhaps it is time to consider.
Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.
By Jack Shanley
After a string of increasingly convoluted cosmic sagas, ‘Thunderbolts’ offers a refreshing change of pace for the MCU. Director Jake Schreier smartly grounds this tale of reluctant anti-heroes in a gritty, espionage-tinged reality, delivering a film that’s as emotionally resonant as it is action-packed.
The narrative centres on a group assembled by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), a shadowy figure with her own agenda. Each character is a volatile mix of personalities and skill sets. They also carry their own baggage, making them far more complex and compelling than the average superhero.
The strength of Thunderbolts lies in its character work. Each member of this unlikely team is given ample screen time to develop, showcasing their individual traumas and reluctant camaraderie. The dynamic between Yelena and Bucky, in particular, crackles with a fascinating mix of suspicion and begrudging respect. Harbour’s Red Guardian steals several scenes with his boisterous charm and surprisingly poignant moments of vulnerability.
While the action sequences are well-choreographed and impactful, they serve the narrative rather than overshadowing it. The film wisely avoids large-scale CGI battles for a more intimate and grounded approach to conflict. The plot, while straightforward, keeps the audience engaged with unexpected twists and turns, exploring themes of redemption, trust, and the blurry lines between good and evil.
However, the film isn’t without its flaws. At times, the sheer number of characters can feel slightly overwhelming, and some subplots could have been explored in more depth. Nevertheless, Thunderbolts ultimately succeeds in delivering a compelling and surprisingly mature entry into the MCU. It proves that superhero stories don’t always need world-ending stakes to be engaging; sometimes, the most captivating battles are fought within. This is a welcome return to form and a promising direction for the future of the franchise.
I’d recommend checking out “Thunderbolts” and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of 3 and a ½ stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Jake Schreier – Rating: 12A – Genre: Action/Sci-fi – Run Time: 2h 6m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.
Personalised gifts and www.wanapix.ie has brilliant Father’s Day gifting ideas. Use code MAMSIEDAD for 15% off. My hubby’s faves last year were the frosted glasses, apron and tools with his name on. There’s even personalised jigsaw puzzles! Wanapix.ie is fantastic for birthdays too!
If your Dad likes to keep fit or loves comfy clothing, Irish brand Koncept Fitwear has nice tops, shorts and bottoms. Great prices, quick delivery and friendly staff; we’re big fans! Their sports bras are brill for women doing the mini marathon; superb support gals!
The National Concert Hall has lots of concerts and family events throughout summer. Their gift cards are wonderful for Dads! Go to a family concert or let him enjoy a night out, without the kiddies.
Wax Museum Plus has lots on and is wonderful to visit as a family. They also have interactive exhibits which are great for engaging kids - young and old!
Thinking of taking Dad out to dinner? Bracken Court Hotel Balbriggan does amazing Sunday dinners. So Yum! They’re great for staycations too, especially with Flynn Park’s Aqualough and Ziplines just up the road!
If your Dad loves coffee, Irish brand Artessa roast their beans in Ireland, to make delicious coffee fusions. They have keep cups and travel mugs too; ideal for gifting Dads.
If he likes golf or spa, Farnham Estate Cavan is ideal. Their indoor/outdoor pool is amazing! Their woodland walks, food and spacious rooms are perfect for summer breaks.
If you’re an adventurous family, why not head up to Carlingford. Rent bikes, enjoy stunning hikes, water sports and the quaint village. Four Seasons Hotel Carlingford is family friendly with huge rooms, delicious food, friendly staff and a pool. Nearby Skypark is a must visit too.
If you’re going on summer hols, we recommended labelling everything! MyNametags.ie have amazing personalised labels and stickers for kids clothing, toys etc. They’re not just for back to school, we label everything! Makes it so much easier to get things back if they’re left behind!
By Dave Kavanagh
Something that crops up when people are planning ahead to protect them and their family’s financial future, is the fact that we don’t know exactly what the future holds. Will jobs and income change? How long will I maintain good health? Will I win the lottery jackpot in the next 3 years? The uncertainty of the future means that we often plan for a variety of occurrences. One important aspect of this planning is deciding on a term for things like Life Cover. A life cover plan can either be done for a specific term or it can be done as a “whole of life” plan. One of the problems with the old way of doing these was that the premiums were reviewed after a few years and could result in constant, substantial increases, often forcing people to either cancel them or accept a much lower level of cover. With “guaranteed whole of life” plans, you at least know exactly what the premium will always be and the level of cover but planning that far ahead can be costly. A relatively new method of dealing with this issue was introduced from one of the life companies, and it is an addition called “Life Changes Option”. This option gives the policy owners a number of choices once they have paid premiums for at least 15 years. They can then choose to either; a) Stop paying premiums and reduce the level of cover which stays in place until the cover is paid out, or b) Cancel the cover (if it is no longer required) and take a refund of up to 70% of all premiums previously paid, or c) Continue the plan as it is with the same level of cover and premiums. This option has become quite popular when people are looking to future-proof cover as it offers choices that can suit people’s changing circumstances. If they have cleared loans and have sufficient savings, a reduced level of cover might be ideal. If they have strong pensions and savings, they may no longer have a need for cover and can take back a lump sum. For more information on how this type of cover may suit you, ask your advisor or contact me for a free quotation.
Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.
Novocaine (2025) delivers a potent mix of dark comedy and hyper-violent action, a film that embraces its outrageous premise with enthusiasm. Directed by Dan Berk and Robert Olsen, and starring Jack Quaid, the movie centers on a man who can’t feel pain.
Quaid plays Nathan Caine, a bank employee with Congenital Insensitivity to Pain with Anhidrosis (CIPA). His condition, usually a serious detriment, becomes the film’s core when his love interest, Sherry (Amber Midthunder), is kidnapped during a bank heist. Nathan, driven by his pain-free state, embarks on a rescue mission, evolving from a cautious individual into a surprisingly resilient, if somewhat inept, action hero.
The film’s strength lies in its commitment to this outlandish premise.
The directors don’t shy away from the graphic implications of Nathan’s condition. He withstands a series of increasingly gruesome injuries – impaling’s, shootings, and bone-crunching impacts – reacting with a mixture of bewilderment and mild annoyance. This comparison of extreme violence and Nathan’s nonchalant reactions creates a unique and darkly, humorous tone.
Quaid delivers a performance that balances Nathan’s initial timidity with his later, pain-fueled tenacity. He’s both relatable and ridiculous, making the audience root for this unlikely hero. Midthunder, while somewhat seen as a damsel-in-distress role, brings a quiet strength to Sherry.
Novocaine (2025) has flaws. The plot, while functional, is straightforward, and the film sometimes favors extreme set pieces over narrative coherence. Some humor may miss the mark, and the intense violence might be off-putting to some. However, for those who enjoy the absurd and can stomach gore, Novocaine 2025 offers a wild and entertaining ride. It’s a film that embraces silliness, delivering a blend of action and comedy that is both shocking and surprisingly fun. I’d recommend checking out ‘Novacaine’ and see what you think of it; I shall give it a score of three stars. You can watch it at your local Cinema today. Director: Dan Berk; Robert Olsen – Rating: 16– Genre: Action/Thriller – Run Time: 1h 50m Language: English. For more film content please follow @movies4fanatics on Instagram.
When my Mam wanted to update her kitchen, she opted for the chalk paint trend. Herself, my sister and me used sugar soap to scrub the cupboards, then painted them with French paint. The result was ok (ish). We did our best, but honestly, it didn’t look fantastic and she ended up getting a whole new kitchen soon after.
When my Aunt said she was repainting her kitchen we thought, Uh-Oh, this won’t end well! But she opted for a kitchen respray, done by professionals (unlike the DIY job we did) The result was stunning! Her kitchen went from plain pine, to a glossy, sleek and trendy charcoal. When she told us the cost we were astonished, it was 1/5th the cost of a new kitchen but looked brand new!
We were so interested in this method of respraying cupboards to transform them, that we decided to do it in our own kitchen. We spoke with TJ & Simon from UPVC Respray Ireland about it and they explained how it works. First you choose your colour (there’s a massive range of colours like duck egg blue, charcoal, classic navy, deep red and lots more), then the guys come to do the job. They put protective covers on the surroundings areas before the respray and it can be done in one day. They use a superior type of paint which creates less fumes, dries quickly, leave a gorgeous finish and is washable; so easy to maintain afterwards.
We’d been thinking about replacing our kitchen at a cost of around 10k but our cupboards are in perfect condition and we like our kitchen layout, so the respray was ideal! It’s affordable, eco-friendly, takes less time and creates less mess than a new kitchen. See more at https://www.upvcrespray.ie/
We finished off our new look kitchen with a handmade wreath from gorgeous flower shop & café Willow & Wisp. We gave Madeline a pic of our kitchen and she designed the wreath to match. She also matches them for front doors – just send her a pic and she’ll make something gorgeous that will compliment your door/kitchen colour. Check them out here -https://www.instagram.com/willow.and.wisp.flowers?igsh=ZjV2ZGRnMnh5bmhu
Visit us on www.mams.ie for more home décor Inspo!
