Dr. Riley Smith
We often think of stress as something external—work deadlines, relationship conflicts, or financial struggles. However, one of the biggest sources of stress comes from within: our own self-criticism. The way we talk to ourselves can trigger the same stress responses as external threats, leading to chronically elevated cortisol levels. But here’s the good news—self-compassion can […]
Spring detoxes are popular, but many people overlook the foundational steps necessary for effective cleansing. Before beginning a detox, movement and sunlight must be prioritized to support hormone balance and mitochondrial function. Detox and Hormones Detoxification isn’t just about diet—it requires hormonal balance. Movement and light exposure regulate cortisol, insulin, and melatonin, which influence your […]
After a season of reduced movement, your body requires a gentle approach to reintroducing activity. A compassionate transition into spring movement prevents injury, enhances mitochondrial health, and helps regulate stress hormones. Winter’s Impact on the Body Reduced movement leads to: Signs Your Body Needs a Gentle Transition Self-Compassion as a Movement Tool Spring Movement Practices […]
With the return of longer daylight hours, your body’s circadian rhythm undergoes adjustments. If you’ve felt sluggish or out of sync, it may be due to winter’s disruption of your biological clock. Resetting your circadian rhythm using natural light is a powerful way to enhance energy, improve sleep, and optimize overall health. Why Light Matters […]
As winter fades and spring arrives, your body undergoes a natural transition. However, lingering winter habits—comfort foods, reduced sunlight exposure, and inconsistent movement—can create imbalances in blood sugar and mitochondrial function, leaving you feeling sluggish. Stabilizing blood sugar levels and supporting mitochondrial health is key to regaining sustainable energy for the vibrant season ahead. Understanding […]
There’s something magical about the way winter naturally draws us toward warming foods and cozy meals shared with loved ones. It’s as if our bodies instinctively know what we need during these colder months. This isn’t just coincidence – it’s the wisdom of our heart’s intelligence guiding us toward seasonal nourishment. The connection between our […]
Your nervous system isn’t just an electrical network – it’s a complex biochemical system that requires specific nutrients to function optimally. While breathwork, meditation, and other regulation techniques are valuable tools, they might not reach their full potential if your nervous system lacks the basic building blocks it needs to maintain balance. The Biochemistry of […]
The connection between metabolic health and mental wellbeing is more profound than most people realize. Understanding this connection, particularly through the lens of functional testing and nutrient status, can transform our approach to mental health support. The Metabolic-Mental Connection Every thought, emotion, and nervous system state has a metabolic component. This isn’t just theory – […]
Let’s talk about the connection that nobody’s discussing: how your unprocessed emotions are literally affecting your metabolic health. This isn’t just about feeling your feelings – it’s about understanding how your body carries every story you’ve ever lived. The Shadow-Stress Connection Here’s the plot twist that changes everything: When you push away parts of yourself, […]
There’s something profound about the way winter naturally draws us inward. As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, nature offers us a powerful invitation to explore our inner landscape—including the shadows we might usually avoid. As both a psychologist and someone deeply interested in metabolic health, I’ve come to appreciate how this seasonal […]
Dr. Riley Smith, LAc · DACM · DiplOM
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Acupuncture is available in-person at our San Diego clinic only. All other services are fully virtual.
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