Healing through Flow - A conversation with Spinal Energetics & Kinesiologist, Katie Athorn

HEALING THROUGH FLOW About Katie Athorn: Inner Flow Energetics was born in 2015. My journey in health began in pharmacy before evolving into 12 fulfilling years in the fitness industry, where I guided clients in fitness and nutrition. Through this experience, I recognized a deeper, often unmet need for comprehensive healing and balance - a missing piece in the broader wellness puzzle. My own journey led me to the incredible power of kinesiology, where I was amazed by the insights gained through muscle testing. Personally, this work has profoundly impacted my life, helping me navigate tough times, accept myself, & heal from stress & trauma.  I've even witnessed what I consider miracles within my own family, especially with my son, who overcame a significant medical challenge through the combined support of incredible doctors & the power of kinesiology & energy healing guided by a dear mentor. This experience, alongside the undeniable power of prayer, deeply solidified my belief in the body's innate capacity to heal & fuels my passion to share & empower you with these transformative tools. So, what Is Spinal Energetics? Spinal energetics is a beautiful modality that actually originated right here in Melbourne with a chiropractor, Dr. Sarah Jane and has expanded to over 500 certified practitioners in the last few years. It is like a combination of Reiki and energy work where it tunes into your chakras and the energetic layers we all have. What's unique is how we connect with your energetic nervous system through the lightest touch, particularly around your neck and sacrum—those key connection points for your energy. It's about allowing your body's own wisdom to gently unravel any tension patterns. We collect these little stresses or even big traumas that maybe hadn’t been fully processed at the time.Spinal energetics is about giving your system the space to unwind and release that without you needing to communicate it with a practitioner, unlike kinesiology, where it involves more proactive communication to assist with the session. It's a really gentle yet profound way to let go. Many of us experience neck and back tension. From an energetic perspective, what are some common emotional or mental stresses that might manifest in these areas, and how can Spinal Energetics help release them? In my work with clients, I often hear about the relentless nature of modern-day stress. Some of the most common experiences include that feeling of being completely overwhelmed by your own mind – the thoughts just keep coming, often repetitive and circling in on themselves. This can manifest as obsessive thinking or that constant mental chatter that makes it nearly impossible to switch off and truly relax. Many also describe feeling under immense pressure, like they need to micromanage everything around them, leading to a constant need to control situations and a sense of unease when things feel out of their hands. Back Tension & Emotional Connections Mid Back (Heart & Lungs): Grief and sadness. Shoulder Blades: Resentment and anger. Feeling stuck. Feeling overwhelmed. Guilt. Frustration. Feelings of loneliness and isolation. Mid Back (Navel Area): Confidence, self-esteem, identity. Not feeling supported and secure. Uncertainty. Lower Back and Hips: Financial stability. Being in a survival state. Difficulty making decisions and moving forward. Getting stuck. Anxiety and instability. We can tap into the body's energetic nervous system to pinpoint areas where trauma or stress has become lodged.  By connecting with these holding patterns, we essentially activate and remind the body of its innate wisdom and capacity for healing. This encourages a natural unwinding process, which might involve subtle movements in the spine, shifts in breathing, or the healthy expression of emotions.  By allowing this complete process to unfold, the body can release these past burdens, paving the way for new, more resilient patterns and a return to its natural state of ease and balance, free from the constraints of stored stress or trauma. The Process: My assessment process involves tuning into the energetic nervous system and identifying patterns of tension within the body, starting with the feet. Similar to a chiropractic evaluation, I begin by observing leg length discrepancies, as an unevenness can indicate underlying structural imbalances. I then assess the tension in the Achilles tendons and the weight distribution across the footpads. These subtle indicators provide valuable information, guiding me to the primary areas in the body where stress may be held, such as the neck, sacrum, or chest. What's one simple breathing or awareness exercise related to the spine and energy flow that we can practise at home to complement Spinal Energetics sessions? Simple Body Scan for Stress Release This is a gentle exercise you can do anytime, anywhere, to help identify and release tension: Become Aware: Take a moment to simply notice how your body feels. You can do this sitting or lying down. Scan Your Body: Slowly bring your attention to different parts of your body, starting with your toes and gradually moving upwards to the top of your head. Pay attention to any areas where you notice feelings of tightness, pressure, or discomfort. Locate the Tension: Once you find an area of tension, acknowledge it without judgement. Imagine Breathing Light: Bring your awareness back to that specific area. Imagine that with each inhale, you are breathing a warm, gentle light into this tension. Dissolve the Stress: As you exhale, visualise that light carrying away the stress and tension, allowing the area to soften and relax. Continue: You can stay with one area for a few breaths or continue to scan through your body, repeating the process for any other areas where you feel tension. If you are feeling overwhelmed: The vagus nerve - Saying the word ‘VOO’- shaping the vowels with your mouth, sustaining the ‘v’ vowel throughout, in a low tone for a few minutes, helps to bring you out of the fight and flight mode.  For littles ones & kids:  If they are feeling overwhelmed, they tend to use the back part of the brain, where the survival part lies. Gently place your hand on your forehead, this can help shift your brain from the reactive survival mode to a calmer, problem-solving state. For those experiencing sleep issues, what's a simple kinesiology-based technique you would recommend doing to help improve sleep quality? Ground Your thoughts with kidney 1: Located on the sole of your foot, about a third of the way down from your toes, is a point known as Kidney 1. Gently holding or massaging this point can help to draw the energy of your busy mind downwards, promoting a sense of grounding and relaxation that can ease you into sleep. Wind down with a grounding foot soak: Soaking your feet in warm water before bed is a wonderful way to signal to your body that it's time to wind down. This simple act can help to release tension and bring your energy back down from your head, preparing you for a more restful night. Soothe overthinking with the third eye point: If you find yourself stuck in a loop of overthinking and can't switch off, try pressing firmly on the Yintang point, also known as the third eye. This point is located directly between your eyebrows. Applying gentle pressure here can help to calm mental chatter and promote a sense of inner peace. From a kinesiology perspective, what's a simple daily exercise or movement we can incorporate to better connect with our body's energy and reduce everyday stress? 1. Start from the central meridian/pubic bone & use one hand to draw a line up to your bottom lip, just off the body & back down again 3-5 times. Imagine that you are flushing that energy out. 2. Now trace the same line up 3 times without going down to raise your energy. 3. Repeat this 3 times help to reset your energy.  As part of our daily self-care ritual, how can muscle testing be a useful tool for understanding what we need? Also known as applied kinesiology (AK), muscle testing is a very personal way to understand what your body truly needs. It is a biofeedback technique where we don't assess muscle strength in the traditional sense, but rather the muscle's ability to "hold" in response to a gentle pressure to identify imbalances and stressors in the body. It is used as a communication tool with the body's energy system. We gently test the strength of a muscle while you focus on a question. A strong response suggests alignment, while a weaker one can indicate a need or imbalance. Through muscle testing, we can explore questions such as: Is it linked to your diet – a nutritional need or sensitivity?  Could it simply be dehydration?  Or perhaps an emotional component? It can even point to a need for lymphatic support.  It empowers you to understand the interconnectedness of your physical and emotional well-being and make choices that truly resonate with your individual needs. It's about listening to the wisdom your body already holds. How do you incorporate Mylk & Butter.Co products for your clients? 🪷 All treatments start by incorporating a warm foot soak with the beautiful organic Azure Moon Soak to calm & ground my clients.  🪷 A spritz or 2 of the Blue Lotus Face Mist around the third eye chakra to activate & balance.  🪷 I love to use Lumiére Face Elixir to massage the temples and soothe away any head tension.  🪷 To rejuvenate their body and senses, I use either the Sacred Heart organic body oil or award-winning Lé Sensuelle Organic body oil which my clients absolutely love. What does your session work involve?  In my session work with clients, I integrate remedial massage with kinesiology, spinal Energetics and acupressure, while also utilizing flower essences, sound, cupping, light therapy, essential oils and more, to help you release old beliefs, past trauma, bringing your body back to a place of calm & safety. For more details and to book a session online or in person, visit: https://innerflowenergetics.com.au/.  Receive 20% off your initial treatment online & in-person. Simply use code: MYLK20  Inner Flow Energetics is based in Bli Bli, Sunshine Coast in Queensland.

Multi-purpose Beauty Products: A More Eco-Friendly Choice—Here’s Why

  Multi-purpose beauty products are versatile personal care cosmetics that minimise packaging and product waste as they have multiple uses. In recent years, the beauty industry has prioritised sustainability in product formulation and packaging, especially after studies revealed that 95% of cosmetic packaging is discarded rather than recycled—contributing to an estimated 114 billion pieces of single-use packaging waste annually. While catering to personal care and aesthetics, the mainstream beauty industry has also contributed to environmental decline. The extensive use of single-use plastics, non-biodegradable materials, and resource-intensive manufacturing processes has led to significant waste and pollution. Multi-Purpose Beauty Product Benefits Reduction in Packaging WasteThe need for separate packaging for each function and benefit has significantly decreased by combining multiple beauty functions into a single product. This directly reduces the amount of packaging waste generated. For example, a product that serves as both a moisturiser and a sunscreen requires only one product and container instead of two. Conservation of ResourcesManufacturing fewer products results in less extraction of raw materials, reduced energy consumption, and lower water usage. This conservation of resources contributes to a smaller ecological footprint. Cost-Effectiveness for ConsumersPurchasing a single multi-purpose beauty product can be more cost-efficient than buying several specialised items. This helps consumers save money while also encouraging responsible consumption. Multipurpose Beauty Product Case Study: Mylk & Butter Mylk & Butter, a product Sustainability Award winner, has developed several multi-purpose beauty products that are meticulously formulated to incorporate diverse functions and benefits into a single product. One product that exemplifies this is Mylk & Butter’s Hydrating Tinted Cheek & Lip Tint Crème. This beauty must-have doubles as a lip balm and a blush. This light, creamy, and nourishing crème is a blend of organic Kokum Butter, Rosehip, and Tamanu Oils. These organic ingredients create a potent skin-regenerating, brightening, and deeply moisturising skincare formula. Another multi-purpose beauty product from Mylk & Butter is the Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil. This earthy and delightfully alluring oil is a 99% handcrafted and certified organic cold-pressed Camellia Seed, Safflower, Geranium, and Damiana oils. These exceptionally nourishing botanical oils provide a lightweight, non-greasy texture that deeply moisturises the whole body and helps combat free radicals, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. It also doubles as a natural perfume. The Lumiére Face Elixir is another standout multi-purpose beauty essential. This formulation combines seven superfood oils, carefully selected to promote a luminous complexion, and works as a primer, serum plus oil-based moisturiser. Key ingredients include virgin blueberry seed oil, Ayurvedic amla, and moringa, all known for their rich antioxidant properties. Primary Attributes of Lumiére Face Elixir VersatilityThe Lumiére Face Elixir serves multiple skincare needs, including moisturising, balancing, and protecting the skin. Its rich antioxidant content helps shield the skin from environmental stressors, making it a comprehensive skincare solution. Ethically Sourced IngredientsMylk & Butter prioritises the use of natural, ethically sourced ingredients. The inclusion of oils like virgin blueberry seed and moringa reflects a commitment to sustainability and skin health. Eco-friendly PackagingThe brand emphasises minimalistic and recyclable packaging, aligning with its eco-conscious values. This approach reduces waste and encourages consumers to participate in sustainable practices. Another standout multi-purpose beauty product from Mylk & Butter is their Renewal Face Polish & Cleanser, a versatile skincare essential that combines exfoliation and cleansing in one step. This dual-function product gently removes impurities and dead skin cells, promoting a smoother and more radiant complexion. By integrating exfoliation and cleansing, it reduces the need for separate bottles, aligning with sustainable beauty practices. The Broader Impact of Multi-Purpose Beauty Products The adoption of multi-purpose beauty products like the Hydrating Tinted Cheek & Lip Tint Crème, Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil, Lumiére Face Elixir and Renewal Face Polish & Cleanser signifies a shift towards more sustainable and simplified consumer habits. As more individuals opt for products that serve multiple functions, the cumulative reduction in resource consumption and waste becomes substantial. Challenges and Considerations While multi-purpose products offer numerous benefits, there are challenges to consider: Formulation ComplexityCreating a product that effectively addresses multiple beauty needs requires careful formulation to ensure efficacy and safety. Consumer EducationEducating consumers on the benefits and proper use of multi-purpose products is essential for widespread adoption. Market PerceptionSome consumers may perceive multi-purpose products as less specialised, potentially affecting their willingness to switch from single-function items. The Future of Sustainable Beauty The beauty industry’s future lies in embracing sustainability at all levels, from ingredient sourcing to product design and packaging. Brands like Mylk & Butter are leading the way by offering products that meet consumer needs while prioritising environmental responsibility. Conclusion Multi-purpose beauty products present a viable path towards a more sustainable beauty industry. By reducing the number of products consumers need, these items help decrease packaging waste, conserve resources, and simplify beauty routines. As the demand for sustainable options continues to grow, embracing multi-purpose products can lead to meaningful environmental benefits and a more conscious approach to beauty. Source: https://theindustry.beauty/billions-of-beauty-packaging-goes-unrecycled-every-year/  https://sustainabilityaward.org/multi-purpose-beauty-products-a-more-eco-friendly-choice-heres-why/  

Review of our Award-winning Luminous Hair Oil from the CEO of The Vegan Beauty Awards

  If you're on the hunt for a way to enhance the health of your hair and scalp, you absolutely need to check out Mylk and Butter.Co’s Luminous Hair Oil Treatment! I was genuinely blown away by the fantastic results it provided. It’s one of those products that really lives up to its promises! The restorative effects of it are remarkable, and I can tell it has brought out the best in my locks. My hair is now shinier, easier to style, and feels super soft and healthy. My scalp also feels fantastic, and the bothersome dry patches I’ve had for such a long time are finally behind me. Honestly, the list of positive changes just keep piling up! I’m also a big fan of how light this oil is! A lot of hair oils tend to weigh down my fine hair, but this one is ideal for everyday application, meaning I get to enjoy its benefits daily without my hair feeling greasy or heavy. Overall, I genuinely feel this product is a win for everyone, regardless of hair type. It really covers A LOT of different wants and needs, so I highly recommend giving it a shot if you're looking to boost the health of your scalp or hair. Love Louise xx CEO of Vegan Beauty Award UK Blog from: https://www.veganbeautyawards.com/post/the-hair-oil-i-m-using-right-now-my-full-review-love-louise

Mylk and Butter Win Two Product Sustainability Awards

    Organic and Eco-Friendly Beauty Mylk & Butter is a sustainable beauty brand that provides holistic, botanical skincare and body essentials. They prioritise environmental care by using eco-friendly packaging and formulating multi-purpose products to conserve resources without compromising quality. Their winning products – Hydrating Cheek & Lip Tint Crème and Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil – come in glass, bamboo, and compostable paper packaging—beautifully designed and sustainable.   Hydrating Tinted Cheek & Lip Tint Crème The Mylk & Butter Ayurvedic Tinted Cheek & Lip Crème is an all-in-one essential that conditions, nourishes, and adds a subtle touch of colour. It glides on smoothly for a sheer, buildable, and universally flattering finish while effectively softening and protecting the lips from environmental elements. This creamy, deeply hydrating blend features certified organic ingredients, including: Kokum Butter – A lightweight, non-greasy Ayurvedic butter rich in fatty acids that deeply hydrates, restoring lip softness and elasticity. Castor Oil – Boasts antibacterial properties to keep lips healthy and smooth while providing intense hydration to prevent dryness and flaking. Rosehip Oil –  Packed with Vitamins A and C, helping to brighten and even out skin tone. Tamanu Oil – Rich in antioxidants that protect against environmental damage, with antibacterial properties that help prevent infections in cracked lips. Certified vegan and over 55% certified organic, this crème is enriched with natural Vitamin E and pure minerals for an effortlessly radiant glow. How to Use: Apply as a base for your favourite lipstick or wear it on its own. Dab a thin layer onto your cheeks or cheekbones and blend lightly for a subtle blush. Finish with a touch of loose powder if desired. Works beautifully as a cream eyeshadow, especially in the bronze shade.     Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil Mylk & Butter upholds its commitment to clean beauty with this exquisite botanical body oil. Specially formulated with a powerhouse blend of pure, cold-pressed oils, it regenerates and replenishes the skin. Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil is handcrafted with 99% certified organic cold-pressed oils, including Camellia Seed Oil, Safflower Oil, and Damiana Oil. These exceptionally nourishing botanical oils provide skin-loving vitamins, creating a lightweight texture that glides effortlessly onto the skin. Its hydrating properties revive dry and sensitive skin while protecting it from environmental stressors—leaving it wonderfully soft and supple. Versatile to use as a body oil, massage oil, perfume, & indulgent bath oil. Key Ingredients & Benefits: Camellia Seed Oil – Deeply moisturises without clogging pores. Rich in Oleic Acid (Omega-9) and antioxidants like Vitamin E, it fights free radicals, reducing fine lines and wrinkles. Historically used by Geishas in South-East Asia for glowing skin. Safflower Oil – A lightweight hydrator that improves skin texture and reduces hyperpigmentation. Contains Linoleic Acid (Omega-6), which locks in moisture without a greasy feel. Damiana Oil – Native to Central & South America, this ancient oil is associated with the sacral chakra, linked to creativity and sensuality. It promotes skin cell regeneration, improves overall skin tone, and helps regulate oil production while keeping skin hydrated. With its unique and sensual aroma—a blend of Damiana, Geranium, subtle citrus notes, and a warm touch of Vanilla—Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil inspires strength, sensuality, and joy in life’s simplest moments. Consciously Packaged Multi-Purpose Products “We’re delighted to recognise Mylk & Butter as Product Sustainability Award winners for their outstanding commitment to product sustainability with their Natural Cheek & Lip Tint and Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil. What impressed us most was the tangible eco-conscious design of these winning products. Both the Hydrating Cheek & Lip Tint Crème and the Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil are thoughtfully packaged in glass, bamboo, and compostable paper. This clear dedication to moving beyond conventional, less sustainable packaging truly sets them apart. The multi-purpose nature of both products is also a significant factor in their sustainability. By offering single products that effectively serve multiple beauty needs, Mylk & Butter encourages mindful consumption and reduces the overall demand for more individual items. Similarly, the focus on certified organic, plant-based ingredients in both products demonstrates a commitment to environmental well-being throughout their lifecycle. From sourcing to formulation, they’ve prioritised natural and less impactful resources. Mylk & Butter’s Natural Cheek & Lip Tint and Le Sensuelle Organic Body Oil are shining examples of how beauty products can be both luxurious and environmentally responsible. Their thoughtful design and packaging choices make them truly deserving recipients of the Product Sustainability Award. We commend their focus on creating high-performing products with a lower environmental footprint.” – Anna Chatburn, Sustainability Award Founder Mylk & Butter’s Focus on Sustainability Mylk & Butter’s mission is to restore the skin’s natural glow with a curated range of holistic products that are both effective and multi-functional—without compromising the environment. Their 100% clean and natural ingredients, combined with ethically sourced crystals and gem essences, provide deep nourishment while promoting balance and spiritual connection. Discover the multi-purpose beauty of sustainability with Mylk & Butter. Shop now at https://mylkandbutter.co/  Article from: https://sustainabilityaward.org/mylk-and-butter-win-two-product-sustainability-awards/