Last week I listened to a podcast with Dr. Nadia Volf, a renowned medical doctor, neuropharmacologist, and acupuncturist.
In France, she became a pioneer in bridging acupuncture with scientific research. This French podcast ‘Dialogues par Fabrice Midal, ‘Ne trahissez pas votre nature’ introduced her framework discussing the 8 fundamental nature types of humans, a tool to help us better understand ourselves and also suggested adaptations to find greater balance and well-being.

Here’s a summary of the 8 types:

1.   Le Transformateur (The Transformer): Energetic and always seeking change and new experiences.
2.   L’Équilibrée (The Balanced One): Strives for harmony and stability in all areas of life.
3.   Le Courageux (The Courageous): Faces challenges with bravery and determination.
4.   La Douce (The Gentle One): Sensitive and empathetic, values softness in relationships.
5.   La Spirituelle (The Spiritual): Oriented toward meaning and the spiritual dimension of life.
6.   Le Défenseur (The Defender): Protective, looks after loved ones and stands firm in their beliefs.
7.   Le Puissant (The Powerful ): Ambitious and driven, aims to make a positive impact.
8.   La Paisible (The Peaceful One ):Drawn to calm and serenity, avoids conflict.

It was such an interesting listen. Each type comes with tailored recommendations, diet, physical activity, acupressure points, and lifestyle choices. It’s a deeply personalised approach that honours who we are at our core.

Reading through a list like this can feel a bit boxed in. Many of us perhaps feel we’re a little bit of everything. And maybe we are. But the truth is we’ve often been shaped, pushed, framed - to fit into a version of ourselves that suits others.

Finding your true nature is not about adding more. It’s about returning. Letting go of the mould and honouring the ‘you’ underneath.
Food for thought 💭