new
Expert Session
Office Hours with Dr. Natazia zu Stolberg, Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine
December 13, 2025
Photos by: Isabelle Passaglia & Natazia zu Stolberg
How does Eastern medicine differ from Western medicine?
One of my favorite books, 'Between Heaven and Earth', says it best—Eastern medicine sees the body as a garden, while Western medicine sees it as a machine. In Eastern medicine, the body is a living ecosystem that thrives when cared for as a whole. Rather than isolating symptoms, it looks at patterns and root causes, understanding that every system in the body is interconnected with emphasis put on maintaining balance and prioritizing preventative care.
What are the most common misconceptions about traditional Chinese medicine, or TCM?
Most people still think of acupuncture primarily as a way to treat pain. While it certainly can, I find its ability to help with hormonal and digestive health, regulating the menstrual cycle, improving sleep, and easing stress and anxiety to be far more powerful and fascinating. Acupuncture and TCM are also mostly sought out when things are going wrong instead of being integrated as a preventative practice.
How does nervous system regulation factor into your work?
It’s really the main driver behind acupuncture. When the nervous system relaxes, the body can finally shift out of survival mode and focus on healing itself. Most of the unwanted symptoms we experience today stem from people being stuck in a constant state of stress with no time to reset. Acupuncture gives the body a much-needed moment of pause.
What are the pillars of long-term health?
Simple habits done consistently will change your life. Return to the basics! Nourishing the body with meals that are mostly whole foods and made at home. Drinking at least 2 liters of water per day. Making time to move your body in a way that is enjoyable for you. Prioritizing stress management and getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night. These are the habits that keep the body regulated and resilient. Remember that the things you do now determine your health in 20+ years.
What does TCM say about the skin?
In traditional Chinese medicine, the skin is a direct reflection of your internal health—specifically the state of your Qi and Blood. When they are flowing smoothly, the skin naturally looks vibrant and clear. Products are the extra cherry on top, but that true glow comes from within when you’ve had a good night of sleep, your hormones are balanced, and your digestion is strong.
Tell us about your morning routine.
I like to wake up about an hour before I have to workout, shower, or start work. This morning hour allows me to ease into the day in a relaxed state. I start with a warm cup of bone broth right when I wake, then have a warm, cooked breakfast 15–30 minutes later. My favorite is scrambled eggs and rice cooked with butter (I keep the rice prepped in the fridge so it’s easy). A slow morning and warm food are key to waking up your digestion gently and setting the tone for the rest of the day.
"One of my favorite Oak products has to be the Relaxation Bath Set. I'm a heat freak and love anything and everything warm, so it's what I restock most often! I’m also a huge fan of Perfecting Body Scrub. When I want to pamper myself a bit in the shower or am headed to an event, I will give myself a little lymphatic massage in the shower as I exfoliate."
How do you support patients experiencing symptoms of perimenopause?
I start by helping patients really understand what’s happening in their bodies. I like to monitor cycles closely by using basal body temperature tracking (tools like the Oura Ring and Natural Cycles make it super simple). I also encourage everyone, regardless of age, to have their hormones checked yearly. Without a baseline, it’s hard to know when perimenopause is beginning or what’s truly changing. So many symptoms overlap with signs of overwork and exhaustion, so we really want to be clear. Acupuncture and herbs are also incredibly supportive during this phase. Together, they help regulate hormones, calm the nervous system, improve sleep, and ease symptoms like mood swings, bloating, or night sweats. The goal is to help the body adapt naturally and maintain balance through this transition.
What about menopause? How does your approach shift?
We work to replenish what the body is naturally losing, ease hot flashes and sleep disturbances, and support emotional balance, so this new phase feels grounded and empowered rather than depleting. I always meet patients where they are. Some choose hormone replacement therapy, while others don’t. Acupuncture and herbs can complement both approaches, either helping reduce the amount of hormones needed or supporting symptom relief on their own.
A TIP FROM DR. STOLBERG
“For all my patients, I recommend swapping cold drinks for room temperature or warm ones. It’s such a simple shift, but it makes a huge difference. Cold water can slow digestion and weaken your body’s ‘digestive fire’, while warm or room temperature drinks support smoother digestion, better nutrient absorption, clearer skin, and more stable energy throughout the day.”
