May, The month to blossom

As the trees come into blossom this month, we are reminded that we can do the same. Nature is full of colour and energy, and it invites us to reflect that in how we live, what we eat, and how we feel. May is a time to step outside, enjoy the fresh air, and make small changes if things have been feeling stuck, especially when the same patterns bring the same results. It is also a good moment for a simple health check. We often see patients who spend time outdoors but still have low vitamin D levels, as the body does not always convert it as we expect. Vitamin D plays an important role in muscle, skin, and bone health, so it is worth knowing where you stand.

Sound is another powerful way to support your health. Music and frequency can have a real effect on the body, and many people feel the benefit when they experience it. I continue to run monthly sound medicine workshops, which I always enjoy. Alongside this, our not for profit organisation, Singing Health, brings people together through voice. Singing supports every cell in the body and helps you feel more balanced and connected. It is not about performance, it is about allowing yourself to open up. Everyone is welcome to join us, and you can try a session as part of our West Fest 2026 Programme next month.

We look forward to welcoming you to Westbourne House soon.

With love and best wishes

Dr Veronica

Ear Syringing

This month marks Deaf Awareness Week, and hearing loss affects a significant number of people in the UK. Even something as simple as a build up of ear wax can impact clarity and day to day comfort.

I offer ear syringing as a safe and effective way to relieve blocked ears. I carry out each treatment using gentle techniques in a calm clinical setting, so you feel comfortable and well supported throughout. Clear hearing can make a real difference to how you feel each day, and this month is a good reminder not to overlook it.

As we spend longer outdoors, it is common for back pain to return. In Chinese medicine, the lower back is closely linked to the kidneys, which are seen as a foundation for strength and stability. When this area becomes overworked, discomfort can settle more easily. Acupuncture is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence as an evidence-based treatment for chronic pain.

I offer a regenerative back treatment that combines Chinese medical massage, cupping, and acupuncture, supported with warming oils and a gentle heat lamp to relax tight muscles and ease discomfort. If this is something that could support you, whether for pain relief or relaxation, I would be very happy to help.

Nina Lunghi, TCM Acupuncturist

Join Dr Veronica for an evening of guided meditation using singing bowls, gongs and chimes.

Sound has been used in healing traditions for centuries. The vibrations created by these instruments interact gently with the body and nervous system, helping the mind settle and encouraging a state of deep relaxation.

During the session you will be guided into a calm meditative state while the sounds and frequencies unfold around you. Many people describe feeling a sense of spaciousness, clarity and calm afterwards.

There is nothing you need to bring with you. We provide mats, cushions, chairs and blankets so you can relax comfortably and enjoy the experience.

Nurse Consultant IV Vitamin Therapy Every Tuesday & Wednesday

Lunchtime Meditation Every Wednesday 12.30–1pm

Breathwork with Heather Every Wednesday, please call to book

Rejuvenating Yoga Every Thursday 6–7pm

Sound Medicine Workshop Wednesday 20 May, 7–8.30pm

West Fest 2026 Programme

West Fest Meditation Drop In Wednesday 10 June 12.30pm

Laughter, The Best Medicine! Wednesday 10 June 7pm

Community Movie Night - Mamma Mia! Tuesday 16 June 7pm

West Fest June Sound Medicine Workshop Wednesday 17 June 7pm

Singing Health at Westbourne Monday 22 June 6pm

Walking Meditation Through the Park Wednesday 24 June 6pm

Rhubarb and strawberries are coming into season together, and there is something quite special about that natural pairing. Rhubarb brings a gentle tartness, while strawberries soften and sweeten the dish beautifully.

Ingredients

• Fresh rhubarb, lightly roasted or gently softened

• Fresh strawberries, sliced

• Mixed salad leaves

• A small handful of fresh mint or basil

• A handful of toasted almonds or seeds

• Optional: soft goats’ cheese or feta

For the Dressing

• Olive oil

• White wine vinegar

• A small drizzle of honey

• Pinch of sea salt and black pepper

Method

Preheat oven to 200c.

Chop rhubarb into small pieces, toss it with a little honey (or sugar), then roast it in the oven until just slightly softened and let it cool.

In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced strawberries, fresh mint, and sliced almonds.

Whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to make a simple dressing.

Toss the greens mixture with the dressing, then gently fold in the cooled roasted rhubarb.

Finish with extra almonds and optional crumbled goat cheese or feta, and serve immediately.

Health Benefits

Rhubarb is naturally rich in fibre and supports healthy gut movement, while also providing vitamin K for bone health. Strawberries are full of vitamin C and antioxidants, helping to support skin health, immunity, and cellular repair.