Talking seasonal change and your body’s ability to heal with the amazing Jess Blair
For years one of the first faces I looked for when I headed to beauty and lifestyle events, Jess Blair is pure joy and kindness personified. She’s also incredibly clever, and a fountain of information when it comes to natural health solutions and simplifying them for her thousands of followers on Instagram.
When I found out the mum, naturopath/nutritionist and published author was moving across the ditch to Australia I was gutted, but we’ve kept in regular contact (she is the ultimate cheerleader exactly when I need it!) and Jess was the first person I thought to tap when I wanted advice on seasonal change and upping my immunity as we head into the cooler months.
Read on for our chat - and Jess’s tips! - below…
Where are you living now, and what took you there?
I am now residing in Newcastle in NSW, Australia. My husband’s job takes me too all different places, his job took me to New Zealand and now to Newcastle. Was quite a quick move so I am just trying to find my feet now!
Read on for our chat - and Jess’s tips! - below…
Where are you living now, and what took you there?
I am now residing in Newcastle in NSW, Australia. My husband’s job takes me too all different places, his job took me to New Zealand and now to Newcastle. Was quite a quick move so I am just trying to find my feet now!
How long have you been practicing as a naturopath/nutritionist, and why did you decide to enter that world?
I have been a naturopath and nutritionist for over 13 years now. My mum actually first took me to a naturopath when I was growing up on a farm, as it was really hard to get into our doctor as we lived rurally. I got really sick with pneumonia/Chronic Fatigue in my last year of school and my energy was really lacking. My mum took me to a naturopath, and I loved seeing her and I got my energy back!
What is your favourite part of what you do?
I don’t do so much clinical work anymore (seeing clients one on one) so my favourite part is actually working with brands, doing corporate talks, and sharing on my Instagram helping the masses. Talking about little changes people can make that can really make a difference. After my naturopathic qualification I continued to study public health. I believe I am a lifelong learner!
The biggest PRO of my job is seeing someone’s energy levels changing, or when they feel better, less fatigued… small changes can make a world of difference in someone’s life. Just feeling heard, and listened to.
I have been a naturopath and nutritionist for over 13 years now. My mum actually first took me to a naturopath when I was growing up on a farm, as it was really hard to get into our doctor as we lived rurally. I got really sick with pneumonia/Chronic Fatigue in my last year of school and my energy was really lacking. My mum took me to a naturopath, and I loved seeing her and I got my energy back!
What is your favourite part of what you do?
I don’t do so much clinical work anymore (seeing clients one on one) so my favourite part is actually working with brands, doing corporate talks, and sharing on my Instagram helping the masses. Talking about little changes people can make that can really make a difference. After my naturopathic qualification I continued to study public health. I believe I am a lifelong learner!
The biggest PRO of my job is seeing someone’s energy levels changing, or when they feel better, less fatigued… small changes can make a world of difference in someone’s life. Just feeling heard, and listened to.
Seasonal change is most definitely here in Aotearoa, what are some supplements you suggest as we head further into the cooler months to keep our immunity intact?
Autumn represents a time of transition, when the body begins to move from the active, outward energy of summer into a more introspective and restorative state. Naturopathy focuses on natural healing with an emphasis on the body’s ability to heal itself. During autumn, naturopaths typically adjust their recommendations to align with the changing seasons and the body’s shifting needs.By honouring the body’s natural rhythms during autumn, you can help maintain health and vitality through this season. Tailoring your diet, activities, and self-care to reflect the slower, grounding energy of autumn can foster better well-being as you transition into winter.
Autumn represents a time of transition, when the body begins to move from the active, outward energy of summer into a more introspective and restorative state. Naturopathy focuses on natural healing with an emphasis on the body’s ability to heal itself. During autumn, naturopaths typically adjust their recommendations to align with the changing seasons and the body’s shifting needs.By honouring the body’s natural rhythms during autumn, you can help maintain health and vitality through this season. Tailoring your diet, activities, and self-care to reflect the slower, grounding energy of autumn can foster better well-being as you transition into winter.
People can easily get bogged down in advice from professionals like yourself, what are some simple changes we can make for a healthier life?
Absolutely! I think there is SO much information out there that it can often be overwhelming, and people often get stuck in looking at every diet and lifestyle change and try change them all at once. My biggest philosophy is - ADD to your regime rather than ‘taking away’ this can be adding more water, more fibre, more sleep!
If you want to change habit or really have a lifestyle goal you want to achieve, I also recommend doing it in phases or steps, so this week maybe you are really going to work on your sleeping habits, going to bed at a reasonable hour. Having a good night’s sleep and managing stress levels can be paramount to your overall health and shouldn’t be underestimated- we all know how awful we feel when we have a bad sleep!
With eating, if that is something you want to improve for energy, stay consistent and add protein to every meal. It’s one small change that will also make a huge difference to your energy levels!
You are also serious #beautygoals my friend, what are your favourite skincare and makeup products right now and why?
You are TOO Kind. I am obsessed with all things skincare, haircare and simple make up for every day. Firstly skincare, I love Emma Lewisham, and Sunday Riley is another favourite I seem to buy time and time again. For a bit of luxury I am obsessed with the La Mer micellar water.
I am a creature of habit when it comes to makeup, and I love Kosas Skin Burst for everyday and my Westman Atelier cream blushes and contour sticks! They are so easy to travel with and the colours are just stunning! RMS beauty is another favourite of mine, I just find the colours always suit my skin tone.
When it comes to perfume, I love to mix and match depending on what I have on. For business its Satin Mood Eau De Parfum by Maison Francis Kurkdjian, for summer I love Jo Malone Orange Bitters, and for everyday it is YSL Libre.
Haircare is another big love of mine as well, and I can’t go past Kérastase haircare and my ghds! I always feel put so much more together when my hair is done!
Absolutely! I think there is SO much information out there that it can often be overwhelming, and people often get stuck in looking at every diet and lifestyle change and try change them all at once. My biggest philosophy is - ADD to your regime rather than ‘taking away’ this can be adding more water, more fibre, more sleep!
If you want to change habit or really have a lifestyle goal you want to achieve, I also recommend doing it in phases or steps, so this week maybe you are really going to work on your sleeping habits, going to bed at a reasonable hour. Having a good night’s sleep and managing stress levels can be paramount to your overall health and shouldn’t be underestimated- we all know how awful we feel when we have a bad sleep!
With eating, if that is something you want to improve for energy, stay consistent and add protein to every meal. It’s one small change that will also make a huge difference to your energy levels!
You are also serious #beautygoals my friend, what are your favourite skincare and makeup products right now and why?
You are TOO Kind. I am obsessed with all things skincare, haircare and simple make up for every day. Firstly skincare, I love Emma Lewisham, and Sunday Riley is another favourite I seem to buy time and time again. For a bit of luxury I am obsessed with the La Mer micellar water.
I am a creature of habit when it comes to makeup, and I love Kosas Skin Burst for everyday and my Westman Atelier cream blushes and contour sticks! They are so easy to travel with and the colours are just stunning! RMS beauty is another favourite of mine, I just find the colours always suit my skin tone.
When it comes to perfume, I love to mix and match depending on what I have on. For business its Satin Mood Eau De Parfum by Maison Francis Kurkdjian, for summer I love Jo Malone Orange Bitters, and for everyday it is YSL Libre.
Haircare is another big love of mine as well, and I can’t go past Kérastase haircare and my ghds! I always feel put so much more together when my hair is done!
Some of Jess's key naturopathic principles for autumn
Nourishment & Diet:
• Warm, Cooked Foods: As temperatures cool, focus on grounding, warming foods. Root vegetables (such as squash, sweet potatoes, and carrots), whole grains, and soups/stews help nourish and support the body during this season.
• Seasonal Foods: Eating foods that are in season, like apples, pears, and pumpkins, can support the body’s natural rhythms.
• Hydration: Despite cooler weather, it’s still essential to stay hydrated. Herbal teas (like ginger, cinnamon, and chamomile) are beneficial for digestion and immune health.
Detoxification & Cleansing:
• Seasonal Detox: Autumn is a good time to focus on gentle detoxification. The body may be ready to release the excess heat and toxins accumulated during the summer. Light cleanses, like consuming more fiber-rich foods or drinking detoxifying herbal teas, can support the liver, lungs, and digestive system.
• Lung Health: As autumn brings drier air, supporting lung health through breathing exercises and herbal remedies (such as mullein, eucalyptus, or elderberry) can be helpful.
Mind-Body Connection:
• Reflection & Rest: Autumn is a time of inward reflection. It is helpful to balance activity with quiet moments of introspection and rest. Practices like yoga, meditation, or journaling help foster a calm, centered mind.
• Adaptogens: Herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil can support the body’s ability to adapt to stress, maintaining balance as the environment shifts.
Immunity Support:
• Strengthen the Immune System: Autumn is a time to bolster immunity in preparation for winter. Vitamins like Vitamin D (from sunlight or supplementation), Vitamin C (from citrus and leafy greens), and zinc (from seeds and nuts) are essential to fortify the body’s defences.
• Herbal Remedies: Elderberry, echinacea, and astragalus are commonly used herbs to support immune function.
• Warm, Cooked Foods: As temperatures cool, focus on grounding, warming foods. Root vegetables (such as squash, sweet potatoes, and carrots), whole grains, and soups/stews help nourish and support the body during this season.
• Seasonal Foods: Eating foods that are in season, like apples, pears, and pumpkins, can support the body’s natural rhythms.
• Hydration: Despite cooler weather, it’s still essential to stay hydrated. Herbal teas (like ginger, cinnamon, and chamomile) are beneficial for digestion and immune health.
Detoxification & Cleansing:
• Seasonal Detox: Autumn is a good time to focus on gentle detoxification. The body may be ready to release the excess heat and toxins accumulated during the summer. Light cleanses, like consuming more fiber-rich foods or drinking detoxifying herbal teas, can support the liver, lungs, and digestive system.
• Lung Health: As autumn brings drier air, supporting lung health through breathing exercises and herbal remedies (such as mullein, eucalyptus, or elderberry) can be helpful.
Mind-Body Connection:
• Reflection & Rest: Autumn is a time of inward reflection. It is helpful to balance activity with quiet moments of introspection and rest. Practices like yoga, meditation, or journaling help foster a calm, centered mind.
• Adaptogens: Herbs like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil can support the body’s ability to adapt to stress, maintaining balance as the environment shifts.
Immunity Support:
• Strengthen the Immune System: Autumn is a time to bolster immunity in preparation for winter. Vitamins like Vitamin D (from sunlight or supplementation), Vitamin C (from citrus and leafy greens), and zinc (from seeds and nuts) are essential to fortify the body’s defences.
• Herbal Remedies: Elderberry, echinacea, and astragalus are commonly used herbs to support immune function.
Sleep & Rest:
• Sleep Hygiene: With the days getting shorter, it’s essential to prioritise sleep. Support good sleep habits by creating a calming nighttime routine and avoiding stimulating activities before bed.
• Adapt to the Change in Light: The transition into autumn often means less sunlight, which can affect mood and energy levels. Managing exposure to light and ensuring enough rest can help counteract the effects of seasonal changes.
Physical Movement:
• Gentle Exercise: As the weather cools, opt for moderate, restorative exercises like walking, yoga, or tai chi to help maintain balance and energy levels.
• Stretching: To prevent stiffness or tension that can arise during cooler months, regular stretching or movement practice is encouraged to maintain flexibility.
• Sleep Hygiene: With the days getting shorter, it’s essential to prioritise sleep. Support good sleep habits by creating a calming nighttime routine and avoiding stimulating activities before bed.
• Adapt to the Change in Light: The transition into autumn often means less sunlight, which can affect mood and energy levels. Managing exposure to light and ensuring enough rest can help counteract the effects of seasonal changes.
Physical Movement:
• Gentle Exercise: As the weather cools, opt for moderate, restorative exercises like walking, yoga, or tai chi to help maintain balance and energy levels.
• Stretching: To prevent stiffness or tension that can arise during cooler months, regular stretching or movement practice is encouraged to maintain flexibility.
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