centraltexasacupuncture

Acupuncture: A Natural Solution for Headaches & Migraines

juliekmacharmy@gmail.com (Julie Lott) — Sat, 20 Jul 2024 12:35:12 GMT

Acupuncture: A Natural Solution for Headaches & Migraines

Headaches and migraines can be debilitating, impacting daily life and overall well-being. For those seeking a natural and effective remedy, acupuncture offers a promising solution. This ancient practice has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including chronic headaches and migraines. At Central Texas Acupuncture & Wellness Center, we specialize in using acupuncture to help our patients find relief and improve their quality of life.

Understanding Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, known as acupoints. These points are situated along energy pathways called meridians, which are believed to carry the body’s vital energy, or Qi (pronounced "chee"). When Qi is blocked or unbalanced, it can result in pain and illness. By stimulating these acupoints, acupuncture aims to restore the natural flow of energy, promoting healing and alleviating pain.

How Acupuncture Helps with Headaches and Migraines

Pain Relief: Acupuncture triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and promotes blood circulation. This can help reduce the intensity and frequency of headaches and migraines.
Reducing Stress: Stress is a common trigger for headaches and migraines. Acupuncture helps to calm the nervous system, reducing stress and tension that can lead to these conditions.
Balancing Hormones: Hormonal imbalances can often contribute to migraines, especially in women. Acupuncture helps regulate hormonal levels, reducing the likelihood of hormone-induced headaches.
Improving Blood Flow: Poor blood flow can contribute to the onset of headaches. Acupuncture improves circulation, ensuring that the brain receives adequate oxygen and nutrients.
Addressing Underlying Causes: Unlike medications that often only mask symptoms, acupuncture addresses the root causes of headaches and migraines, providing longer-lasting relief.

Scientific Evidence

Numerous studies have supported the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating headaches and migraines. Research published in the journal Cephalalgia found that acupuncture was more effective than medication in reducing the frequency and severity of migraines. Another study in The Cochrane Library concluded that acupuncture could be a valuable non-pharmacological tool for treating chronic headaches.

Personalized Treatment at Central Texas Acupuncture & Wellness Center

At Central Texas Acupuncture & Wellness Center, we understand that each patient is unique. Our experienced acupuncturist, Bret, takes the time to thoroughly assess your condition and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. Whether you suffer from occasional headaches or chronic migraines, we are committed to helping you find relief through acupuncture.

What to Expect During Your Acupuncture Session

Your first visit will include a comprehensive evaluation of your health history and current symptoms. During the acupuncture session, you will lie comfortably while Bret inserts thin, sterile needles into the selected acupoints. Most patients find the process relaxing and often fall asleep during the treatment. After the session, you may experience immediate relief or gradual improvement over a series of treatments.

Embrace a Headache-Free Life

Don't let headaches and migraines control your life. Acupuncture offers a natural, drug-free alternative to managing and alleviating pain. At Central Texas Acupuncture & Wellness Center, we are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being through personalized acupuncture care.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Experience the benefits of acupuncture for yourself. Contact us at Central Texas Acupuncture & Wellness Center to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards a headache-free life. Let us help you find the relief you deserve naturally and effectively.

Global Prevalence of Diabetes & Acupuncture

juliekmacharmy@gmail.com (Julie Lott) — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 13:56:49 GMT

Global Prevalence of Diabetes & Acupuncture

Global Prevalence of Diabetes

Diabetes is a major health concern worldwide. Currently, approximately 537 million people aged 20-79 are living with diabetes. That’s a staggering number! In the United States alone, 37.4 million people are affected, which translates to about 1 in 10 people. Think about your circle of friends and family—how many of them might be living with diabetes?

Statistics and Impact

These numbers highlight just how widespread diabetes is. It's not just a problem for some people; it's a global issue that touches nearly everyone in some way.

Diabetes in the United States

In the U.S., diabetes affects millions, and the numbers are continuing to rise. It's important for everyone to understand what can be done to manage and even prevent Type 2 diabetes.

Managing Type 2 Diabetes Through Lifestyle

You might be surprised to learn that many aspects of our daily lives influence the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Luckily, this also means we can take steps to manage it effectively.

Lifestyle Factors Influencing Type 2 Diabetes

Poor Diet- Eating a diet high in sugars and unhealthy fats can increase the risk of diabetes.

Lack of Exercise- A sedentary lifestyle contributes significantly to the development of Type 2 diabetes.

Insufficient Sleep- Not getting enough rest can affect your body's ability to manage blood sugar levels.

High Stress- Chronic stress can negatively impact your health, including your blood glucose levels.

Alcohol Consumption- Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood sugar levels and lead to diabetes.

Tobacco Use- Smoking increases the risk of developing diabetes and other health issues.

Transitioning to a Healthier Lifestyle

Changing your lifestyle can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start with small, manageable goals, and gradually build on them. This way, the changes will feel more natural and sustainable.

Setting Small Goals- Begin by making one or two changes each week. Over time, these small steps will lead to significant improvements in your health.
Dietary Recommendations- What you eat plays a huge role in managing diabetes. Here’s a simple guide to a balanced diet:
High Fiber Vegetables Make sure 50% of your plate is filled with high-fiber veggies like cucumbers, broccoli, tomatoes, green beans, cauliflower, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
Good Carbohydrates- Reserve 25% of your plate for good carbs, such as apples, blueberries, legumes/beans, or quinoa.
Protein Sources-The remaining 25% should be protein-rich foods like chicken, fish, and eggs.
Incorporating Exercise- Getting active is crucial, but it doesn’t have to be a chore.

Starting with Small Walks- Start with a few laps around your home. Before you know it, you’ll be ready to take longer walks around your neighborhood.

Joining Fitness Programs- Consider joining a gym, your local YMCA, Silver Sneakers, or Renew Active.

Using Exercise Videos- Find exercise videos on YouTube that match your fitness level. There are plenty of free resources available.
Chair Exercises- Even if you’re sitting, you can still move. Try some chair exercises during commercial breaks while watching TV.

7. Reducing Stress -Stress management is key to overall well-being.

Personal Time- Take some time for yourself each day to relax and recharge.
Enjoying Nature- Spend at least 15 minutes in nature. It can be incredibly refreshing and calming.
Seeking Help- If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Sometimes a little support is all you need.
Engaging in Laughter- Spend time with people who make you laugh or watch your favorite funny TV shows. Laughter really is good medicine!

8. Improving Sleep- Good sleep habits are essential for managing diabetes.

a. Establishing a Bedtime Routine- Create a nightly routine to signal to your body that it's time to wind down.

b. Removing Electronics from the Bedroom- Keep your bedroom free from smartphones and TVs. This helps create a better sleep environment.
c. Creating a Conducive Sleeping Environment- Make sure your bedroom is dark, cool, and quiet to promote better sleep.
d. Avoiding Heavy Meals and Alcohol- Avoid eating heavy meals, sweets, or drinking alcohol at least two hours before bedtime.

The Role of Acupuncture in Diabetes Management

You might wonder if acupuncture can help with diabetes. The answer is a resounding yes!

Benefits of Acupuncture

Decreasing Blood Glucose

Acupuncture can help lower blood glucose levels.

Protecting Pancreatic Functions

It supports pancreatic functions, which are crucial for managing diabetes.

Increasing Insulin Levels

Acupuncture can help increase insulin levels in your body.

Improving Glucose Tolerance

It also improves your body’s glucose tolerance, making it easier to manage diabetes.

Combining Acupuncture with Metformin

Studies have shown that acupuncture can enhance the glucose-lowering effects of Metformin, a common diabetes medication.

Addressing Diabetic Neuropathy

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that affects many people.

Prevalence and Symptoms

Between 30% and 50% of diabetics experience diabetic neuropathy, which can cause burning pain, numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, sensitivity to touch, and balance issues.

Treatment Success at Central Texas Acupuncture & Wellness Center

At Central Texas Acupuncture & Wellness Center, the practitioner and her team have an 80% success rate in treating diabetic neuropathy. They have helped many patients manage their blood glucose levels and alleviate other diabetes-related symptoms.

Making these changes might seem daunting at first, but remember, you don’t have to do it all at once. Start small, stay consistent, and gradually, you’ll see big improvements in your health and well-being.

Gut Health and Hormones: How Chinese Medicine Can Help

juliekmacharmy@gmail.com (Julie Lott) — Wed, 12 Jun 2024 15:40:50 GMT

Gut Health and Hormones: How Chinese Medicine Can Help

Your gut health and hormone levels are intrinsically linked. While we often think of the body as separate systems, the reality is that what happens in one part of the body affects another. Hormones, in particular, regulate gut health and metabolism.

The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in the production, metabolism, and signaling of numerous hormones that govern essential bodily functions. Studies have demonstrated that poor gut health can affect hormones, increasing the risk of issues like PMS, PCOS, estrogen dominance, endometriosis, and infertility.

Keep reading to learn more about gut health and hormones and how Chinese Medicine can offer a natural solution to address hormonal imbalances by targeting the root cause.

The Link Between Gut Health and Hormones Western Medicine & Research

Gut health and hormonal balance work synergistically, each influencing the other’s function. A healthy gut is challenging to maintain with hormonal imbalances, and balanced hormones are difficult to achieve with an unhealthy gut.

Imbalances in gut bacteria have been associated with hormones such as estrogen. Disruption in the gut microbiome results in decreased circulating estrogens. Cortisol can lead to inflammation, while thyroid issues can either accelerate or slow metabolism, resulting in hormonal conditions such as:

Irregular menstrual cycle
Mood swings
Metabolic dysfunction
Chinese Medicine: Spleen, Stomach, & Hormones
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has long held that the body’s systems are interconnected—a delicate balance of hormones, Qi (vital energy), Blood, and organ function.

In TCM, gut health is referred to as the function of the spleen and stomach organs. They ensure that nourishing blood facilitates regulated metabolism, internal balance, coordinated organ interaction, and control over processes like growth, development, and reproduction, which hormones govern.

For example, in TCM, healthy spleen and stomach function ensures a woman has regular menstrual cycles because it allows the body to produce the necessary hormones. An imbalance in organ function could disrupt this hormonal process and her cycle. Thus, regulating the spleen and stomach organ function is essential to harmonize hormonal activity according to these ancient principles.

5 Root Causes of Imbalanced Gut Health and Hormones According to Chinese Medicine

In Chinese Medicine, addressing imbalanced gut health and hormones involves identifying and addressing the root cause rather than merely alleviating symptoms. Symptoms are seen as manifestations of underlying imbalances within the body.

Some common deficiencies and patterns observed with gut health and hormones include:

Liver Stagnation: The Liver regulates the smooth flow of Qi and Blood. Emotional stress or a sedentary lifestyle can precipitate Liver Qi stagnation, resulting in digestive issues and hormonal imbalances. Common symptoms include irritability, mood swings, and menstrual irregularities.

Dampness: Poor digestion, often exacerbated by a diet high in greasy or cold foods, leads to high levels of dampness. This blocks the natural flow of Qi, leading to the formation of Phlegm, which can obstruct the endocrine system, potentially leading to thyroid disorders or hormonal imbalances.

Imbalance in Spleen and Stomach: The spleen transforms food into Qi and Blood. If weakened due to poor diet, stress, or overthinking, it leads to an accumulation of Dampness and Phlegm, impairing nutrient absorption and energy production.

Inflammation: Linked to excess Heat and Dampness, inflammation affects digestion and nutrient absorption. It can weaken the body’s defensive energy (Wei Qi) and disrupt the smooth flow of Qi and Blood, leading to hormonal imbalances and symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, fatigue, and mood swings.

Stress: Chronic stress disrupts the flow of Qi, exacerbating issues like Dampness and Phlegm, causing poor digestion and nutrient absorption. It can also reduce appetite while increasing energy consumption, leading to weight loss.

Chinese Medicine Treatment to Restore Gut Health and Hormones

Several treatments based on TCM principles can combat gut health and hormone level issues.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to address the root causes affecting gut health and hormones. By modulating neurotransmitters and hormones, acupuncture regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, mitigating symptoms of hormonal imbalances such as irregular menstruation, infertility, and menopausal discomfort.

Acupuncture's anti-inflammatory effects reduce gut inflammation, promoting digestive function and nutrient absorption. Studies have shown that acupuncture can improve symptoms in people with Crohn’s disease by increasing intestinal anti-inflammatory bacteria, strengthening the intestinal barrier, and prolonging symptom remission. Other studies confirm its effects on regulating gut motility, nutrient absorption, and maintaining the gut barrier.

Additionally, acupuncture helps reduce stress by lowering cortisol levels and promoting relaxation, indirectly benefiting hormonal balance and gut health.

Unveiling the Medicinal Marvels of Chrysanthemums at Central Texas Acupuncture Wellness Center

juliekmacharmy@gmail.com (Julie Lott) — Thu, 04 Apr 2024 01:34:51 GMT

Unveiling the Medicinal Marvels of Chrysanthemums at Central Texas Acupuncture Wellness Center

At Central Texas Acupuncture Wellness Center, we're passionate about exploring the natural wonders that can enhance health and well-being. Today, we're delving into the captivating realm of chrysanthemums, not just beloved for their aesthetic allure but revered for their remarkable medicinal properties.

Here's a glimpse into the myriad health benefits these ornamental plants offer:

1. Anthocyanin Richness: Chrysanthemums boast a bounty of anthocyanins, potent antioxidants known for their disease-fighting prowess. From combating cancer and diabetes to alleviating inflammation and bolstering cardiovascular health, these flavonoids emerge as formidable guardians of our well-being.

2. Vision Vitality: With a high beta-carotene content, chrysanthemums become a boon for ocular health. Transforming into vitamin A within the body, beta-carotene not only enhances eyesight but also serves as a shield against age-related degeneration, ensuring our vision remains sharp and vibrant.

3. Anti-Aging Elixir: Indulging in chrysanthemum tea isn't merely a treat for the taste buds; it's a rejuvenating ritual for the body. Laden with antioxidants, this floral infusion neutralizes harmful free radicals, curbing the onset of wrinkles, cellular damage, and age-related ailments, paving the path for graceful aging and longevity.

4. Anemia Alleviation: Struggling with anemia? Chrysanthemum could be the natural remedy you've been seeking. With a generous iron content, this botanical brew replenishes hemoglobin levels, fortifying the body against the debilitating effects of oxygen deficiency, and offering a gentle alternative to conventional iron supplements.

5. Liver Love: Treat your liver to some well-deserved TLC with chrysanthemum tea. Renowned for its detoxifying prowess, this herbal elixir aids in liver cleansing, optimizing its function, and facilitating the elimination of toxins from the bloodstream. The result? Enhanced vitality and a revitalized sense of well-being.

Brewing Bliss: Embrace the therapeutic ritual of brewing chrysanthemum tea with these simple steps:

1. Bring water to a boil and add 3-4 buds to a strainer.

2. Steep for 3-4 minutes, allowing the essence of chrysanthemum to infuse into the water.

3. Wrap yourself in a cozy blanket and savor the soothing warmth of this botanical brew.

At Central Texas Acupuncture Wellness Center, we invite you to unlock the transformative potential of chrysanthemums and embark on a journey towards holistic health and vitality. Embrace nature's pharmacy and experience the profound benefits of this ancient botanical treasure. Cheers to your well-being!

Acupuncture: A Promising Therapy for Concussions in Veterans and Active-Duty Soldiers

juliekmacharmy@gmail.com (Julie Lott) — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 15:02:59 GMT

"Acupuncture: A Promising Therapy for Concussions in Veterans and Active-Duty Soldiers"

As a veteran myself, I understand firsthand the challenges faced by those who have served in the military, particularly concerning concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Having undergone clinical internships at the Austin VA, I've had the opportunity to witness the profound impact acupuncture can have on addressing these specific issues within the veteran community.

Veterans and active-duty soldiers often confront the risk of concussions or TBIs during their service. With over 350,000 reported brain injuries among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans since 2000, the urgency to find effective treatments is evident. Recognizing this need, both the Department of Defense (DOD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) have turned to acupuncture as a potential solution.

In recent years, the US government has integrated acupuncture into its approach to assist veterans recovering from TBIs. The VA, in particular, has implemented various initiatives incorporating acupuncture into veterans' treatment plans. An informative article on the VA website outlines the fundamentals of acupuncture, its efficacy, and how it's being deployed to aid veterans. Notably, a new policy allows acupuncture to be included in a veteran's medical benefits package if their care team deems it beneficial for their condition. Since February 2018, VA medical centers have been empowered to hire certified acupuncturists, significantly enhancing access to this therapy for veterans in need.

Similarly, the DOD has adopted acupuncture as a valuable tool in aiding active-duty soldiers recovering from concussions. Reports from McClatchy Newspapers highlight how certified acupuncturists have been dispatched to Afghanistan to provide immediate treatment to injured soldiers. Access to acupuncture shortly after injury has proved instrumental in facilitating soldiers' recovery and swift return to duty.

My experience as a veteran and as an acupuncturist in training during clinical internships at the Austin VA has deepened my understanding of how acupuncture can serve the veteran community. Witnessing firsthand the positive outcomes and the relief it brings to those struggling with concussions and TBIs reinforces the importance of integrating alternative therapies into traditional medical practices.

The integration of acupuncture by both the VA and DOD represents a significant step towards its acceptance within Western medicine. As more evidence accumulates supporting its effectiveness in treating various conditions, acupuncture is poised to play an increasingly vital role in supporting the health and well-being of veterans and active-duty personnel alike.

Letting Go and TCM

juliekmacharmy@gmail.com (Julie Lott) — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 14:29:42 GMT

Harmonizing with Autumn: TCM Insights into the Fall Season

This morning, my mentor Tanya shared a beautiful blog post about the enchanting season of fall, and it left me feeling inspired to extend this heartfelt message to others.

I understand that this message may be a bit lengthy, but I invite you to stay with me because there's a fascinating connection between the autumn season and the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that I'd like to explore and share.

Fall, with its vibrant tapestry of colors and its gentle descent into the embrace of winter, carries profound lessons that resonate far beyond the rustling leaves.

Amidst the warm embrace of this past summer, I found myself wandering through the corridors of introspection. Questions, like fluttering leaves in a gentle breeze, danced through my mind. I pondered the essence of friendship, questioning the depth of my own loyalty. Why, I wondered, did those I held closest seem distant when I needed them most?

In the quiet moments of reflection, a profound realization unfurled its wings within me. I whispered to myself, "Enough." I recognized that I deserve more than fair-weather "friends" who only surface when it suits them, leaving our friendship stranded in the shallows. Just as in all relationships, the currency of "QI" effort and loyalty must flow both ways.

Recently, I embarked on a journey of self-discovery through a seminar titled "Shift" completely changed my Mindset. Initially focused on business practices, the wisdom I unearthed during those two days bloomed far beyond the conference room. It revealed itself as a guiding star in the constellation of my personal life.

As the trees gracefully shed their foliage, they teach us the art of letting go. Each leaf's descent is a reminder that change is an integral part of life. Just as the old must make way for the new, we too must release what no longer serves us, whether it be habits, relationships, or beliefs.

The crisp autumn air whispers tales of transformation. In the quiet moments when the world seems to hush, we can hear the wisdom of the season. It reminds us that growth often arises from the compost of our experiences. Just as fallen leaves nourish the earth, our past challenges and triumphs enrich our journey toward becoming better "YOU".

In the warmth of cozy scarves and pumpkin-spiced moments, fall invites us to savor the present; apparently not yet in TEXAS BIPOLAR weather conditions. It encourages us to relish the simple pleasures, to find joy in the amber hues of a setting sun, and to gather with loved ones around the hearth of togetherness.

So, as I reflect on the wisdom of fall, I invite you to join me in this seasonal celebration. Let us embrace change, honor our past, and find solace in the beauty of the present. May the lessons of fall be our guiding light as we navigate the ever-turning seasons of life.

As the leaves of my understanding rustle with newfound wisdom, I'm reminded that, like the seasons, friendships too have their cycles. It is in the letting go of what no longer serves us that we create space for those who align with the true essence of who we are. So, here's to shifting mindsets, embracing change, and nurturing connections that bloom in the rich soil of reciprocity and authenticity.

Chinese Medicine and the Season of Autumn

In Chinese medicine, the concept of seasons is intricately woven into the understanding of health and well-being. There are typically five seasons discussed: the well-known Summer, Autumn, Winter, and Spring, as well as an additional season known as "long summer," characterized by warmth and dampness.

Autumn, in the realm of Chinese medicine, represents a transition from the yang energy of summer to the yin energy of winter. It is closely associated with the Chinese understanding of the lungs and the element of metal. Below, I offer an excerpt from the Huang Di Nei Jing Su Wen (Su Wen), a classical text, providing guidance for the autumn season.

The "Huang Di Nei Jing" (黄帝内经), or "The Inner Classic of the Yellow Emperor," is a comprehensive ancient Chinese medical text that offers guidance on various aspects of health and wellness, including the influence of seasons on the human body. While it does not specifically mention the idea of preparing for the next season in the same way that modern interpretations might, it does provide insights into the principles and practices associated with autumn and how they relate to the transitions between seasons.

Here are some key points from the "Huang Di Nei Jing" regarding autumn:

The Metal Element: In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), autumn is associated with the Metal element. The Metal element is connected to qualities like clarity, purity, and refinement. It symbolizes the process of harvesting, letting go of what is unnecessary, and preserving what is essential.

Lung and Large Intestine Organs: Autumn is linked to the Lung and Large Intestine organs in TCM. These organs are considered particularly vulnerable during this season. The Lung is responsible for respiration and is believed to be sensitive to dryness and changes in the air. The Large Intestine plays a role in eliminating waste from the body.

Harvesting and Gathering: Autumn is seen as a time of harvesting the fruits of one's labor, both in terms of crops in agriculture and in one's own life. It is a time to gather resources, both physically and energetically, in preparation for the colder, more yin (inward and contracting) winter months.

Balancing Practices: TCM recommends practices during autumn to support the Lung and Large Intestine organs and help the body adjust to the changing season. These may include dietary adjustments, herbal remedies, and lifestyle recommendations.

Transition Between Seasons: While the text may not explicitly mention "preparation for the next season," it emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance and harmony within the body as it transitions from the active, yang (outward and expansive) energy of summer to the more introspective, yin energy of winter. This balance is crucial for overall health.

Emotional Well-Being: TCM also acknowledges the connection between emotions and physical health. Autumn is associated with the emotion of grief or sadness, and the text suggests that it's important to address and process these emotions to maintain emotional and physical balance.

In summary, the "Huang Di Nei Jing" offers guidance on how to align with the seasonal energies of autumn, emphasizing the importance of balance, harvesting, and preserving essential energies in preparation for the colder months. While it may not explicitly mention preparing for the next season in modern terms, the text's principles align with the idea of transitioning harmoniously between seasons for the sake of health and well-being.

Spring into ways to improve stress and anxiety!

juliekmacharmy@gmail.com (Julie Lott) — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 00:33:34 GMT

The dictionary defines stress in multiple ways, but there is only one that matters when we discuss how stress affects our physical bodies. Stress is defined as a physical, chemical or emotional factor that causes bodily or mental tension. Stress actually does have a function in our bodies, it’s the body’s way of signaling for help or a break in the routine. If we don’t listen to these signals, we can develop imbalances in our bodies, which can lead to illnesses.

Cortisol is the hormone most closely related to stress. Cortisol is a big component of the “fight or flight” response we feel when we are scared or threatened. In small bursts, cortisol is helpful. However, when stress becomes so chronic, cortisol levels become elevated. This puts the body in a constant state of being on edge, eventually causing insomnia, depression, anxiety, digestive issues, and mental illness. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) provides many ways of combating stress and keeping our minds focused.

Here are a few examples of how this ancient medical system can help.

Nutrition for Stress:

Proper nutrition is vital for everyone. But when it comes to stress and focus, nutrition for the kidneys is crucial. The kidneys are the source of our vital essence and if they are damaged, our health will suffer. Foods like black beans, kidney beans, asparagus, plums, blueberries and blackberries are all beneficial for strengthening the kidneys. When the kidneys are strong, we are better prepared to deal with stress.

Acupuncture for Stress:

Acupuncture acts as physical therapy for the nervous system. The tiny needles retrain the nervous system and the brain to behave as it normally should. For the nervous system to act and respond accordingly, cortisol has to be at normal levels and only used when a true “fight or flight” situation occurs. Studies show acupuncture does this.

SLOW YOUR BREATH:

Sounds simple but this is the most important first step as slow, paced breathing has the power to help us regulate emotions.

How to do box breathing

Breathe out slowly, releasing all the air from your lungs.
Breathe in through your nose as you slowly count to four in your head. ...
Hold your breath for a count of four.
Exhale for another count of four.
Hold your breath again for a count of four.
Repeat for three to four rounds.

SPEND SOME TIME IN NATURE:

Another way to restore that sense of safety and belonging is to get in nature. In our technological society we can easily feel disconnected and forget that we are a part of nature - get out, breathe in the trees! Do more outdoor activities - Outside air helps liver qi flow. If you have been feeling irritable, find an outdoor activity to smooth out that liver qi stagnation. Try hiking or take up golf. I enjoy planting and gardening especially in the spring.

Put Some Spring into Your Step

Spring corresponds to the "Wood" element, which in turn is conceptually related to the liver and gallbladder organs. According to the philosophy of Chinese medicine, the liver is responsible for the smooth flowing of Qi (energy) throughout the body. When the liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. So, for optimum health this spring, move your Qi!