QiMail Newsletter December '09

In This Issue:

• Recharge Your Battery this Winter with Acupuncture
• Natural Options for the Flu
• Kidney Qi Boosting Black Bean Soup

Recharge Your Battery this Winter with Acupuncture

If you feel tired and drained, you are not alone. "Lack of energy" is one of the top five complaints that doctors hear in their offices. According to Oriental medicine, the cold months of winter are the perfect time to recharge your battery and generate vital energy – Qi - in order to live, look, and feel your best.

The ancient Chinese believed that human beings should live in harmony with the natural cycles of their environment. The cold and darkness of winter urges us to slow down. This is the time of year to reflect on health, replenish energy and conserve strength.

Winter is ruled by the Water element, which is associated with the Kidneys, Bladder and Adrenal Glands. The Kidneys are considered the source of all energy or “Qi” within the body. They store all of the reserve Qi in the body so that it can be used in times of stress and change, or to heal, prevent illness, and age gracefully.

During the winter months it is important to nurture and nourish our Kidney Qi. It is the time where this energy can be most easily depleted. Our bodies are instinctively expressing the fundamental principles of winter – rest, reflection, conservation and storage.

The Nei Ching, an ancient Chinese classic, advises people to go to sleep early and rise late, after the sun's rays have warmed the atmosphere a bit. This preserves your own Yang Qi for the task of warming in the face of cold.

Eating warm hearty soups, whole grains, and roasted nuts help to warm the body’s core and to keep us nourished. Sleep early, rest well, stay warm, and expend a minimum quantity of energy.

Seasonal acupuncture treatments in winter serve to nurture and nourish kidney Qi which can greatly enhance the body's ability to thrive in times of stress, aid in healing, prevent illness and increase vitality. Call now for more information or to schedule your seasonal tune-up

Here are some dietary suggestions that can lead to an increase in vitality and radiant health.

Water - The Kidneys are associated with the Water element. Drink ample water, at room temperature, throughout the day.

Kidney Shaped Foods - Black beans and kidney beans are excellent examples of kidney shaped foods that nourish and benefit Kidney Qi.

Blue and Black Foods - The colors blue and black correspond to the Water element of the Kidneys and are thought to strengthen the Water element. Include blueberries, blackberries, mulberry and black beans in your diet.

Seeds - Flax, pumpkin, sunflower and black sesame seeds relate to fertility and growth which is governed by Kidney Qi.

Nuts - Walnuts and chestnuts have been found to be especially effective for increasing Kidney Qi.

Vegetables - Dark, leafy green vegetables are the best choice for Kidney Qi. Other Kidney Qi boosting veggies include asparagus, cucumbers and celery.


Natural Options for the Flu

Did you know that tamiflu, a drug used to treat flu symptoms, is derived from star anise, an anti-viral plant that has been used by Oriental medicine herbalists for centuries? When it comes to staying healthy during the flu season, Oriental medicine has a lot to offer.

Acupuncture for Prevention - Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can prevent colds and flus by building up the immune system with just a few needles inserted into key points along the body's energy pathways. These points are known for strengthening the circulation of blood and energy and for consolidating the outer defense layers of the skin and muscle (Wei Qi) so that germs and viruses cannot enter through them.

Acupuncture to Get Better Faster - If you've already happened to catch that cold, acupuncture and herbal medicine can also help with the chills, sniffles, sore throat or fever in a safe, non-toxic way that doesn't 't bombard your body with harmful antibiotics.

Acupuncture does not interfere with Western medical treatment. On the contrary, it provides a welcome complement to it in most cases, and with its emphasis on treating the whole person, recovery time for illness is often shortened.

Herbal Medicine - There is a one thousand year old Chinese herbal formula that forms a handy complement to these immune-boosting treatments and it is elegantly entitled The Jade Windscreen Formula. It is made up of just three herbs: Radix Astragalus, Atractylodis Macrocephalae, and Radix Ledebouriellae. These three powerful herbs combine together to tonify the immune system and fortify the exterior of the body so that you can fight off wind-borne viruses and bacteria.
Kidney Qi Boosting Black Bean Soup

Kidney Qi Boosting Black Bean Soup

From an Eastern perspective, black beans are warming in nature. They are thought to tonify the Kidney Qi and nourish Yin and Blood.

From a Western perspective, black beans are rich in antioxidants and an excellent source of protein, folate, iron and fiber.

Ingredients

1 pound black beans
1 bay leaf
1 large onion, sliced
Salt to taste
A few cloves of chopped garlic
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
1 cup dry sherry (not cooking sherry)

Instructions

1. Pick over beans to remove any dirt, stones or foreign objects. Wash well, then soak for 8 hours in ample cold water.

2. Drain beans and cover with a generous amount of fresh water. Bring to a boil over high heat in a large saucepan with the bay leaf. Skim off foam, lower heat, and simmer, partially covered, until beans are just tender, about 1 hour.

3. Add onion and continue to cook until onion becomes extremely soft, about 1 more hour.

4. Add salt to taste and garlic. Continue to cook, adding a little boiling water if necessary, until beans are very soft, about 1-2 hours more.

5. Remove bay leaf and turn off heat. Ladle beans in batches into a blender or food processor and puree, or use an immersion blender and puree soup directly in the saucepan.

6. Add dry mustard powder and dry sherry. Correct seasoning. Reheat and serve, adding any garnishes you wish, such as slices of lemon or freshly chopped herbs.

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December 2009 All Ways Well Newsletter

In This Issue:
**Happy Holidays from All Ways Well
**Shop locally this holiday season, the 3/50 project
**Rebecca's Holiday Hours
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Happy Holidays from All Ways Well
Now that Thanksgiving has passed and winter holidays are nipping at our heels, please allow me to wish you the very best this holiday season. I felt struck this year by how much I have to be thankful for - family, friends, the beauty and joy I find in the Emerald City and the thriving acupuncture practice I love, which I have thanks to all of you. So please accept my gratitude this holiday season and allow me to say thank you for choosing me to be involved in your health and your care. I feel honored by your trust, your referrals and your continued support.

Shop Locally This Holiday Season - The 3/50 Project
Holiday shopping has begun and while some people thrive on it, for many holiday shopping is one of the least enjoyable things many of us can count on doing each calendar year. This year, however, the 3/50 Project is here to help us think local and and shop smart. Many of you may have heard of this project already, but if you haven't the 3/50 Project is an effort to save the local economy three stores at a time. Its a simple request - think of 3 local independently owned businesses that you want to see stick around, and spend $50 at each one. If half the population spent $50 a month in independently owned businesses, their purchases would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue. Furthermore, according to the US Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy, small businesses employ over half the country's private sector workforce in the United States truly making small business an essential part of our nation's backbone. Beyond revenue, imagine how many jobs could be preserved if not created if half or even 3/4 of the US population supported small local businesses. For more information about the 3/50 Project click HERE and if you have a choice between a local store and a large chain, think about shopping local as much as you can this holiday season.

Rebecca's Holiday Hours - book online anytime!
The holiday season marks my annual break to spend time with family, reflect on the past and prepare for the new year. Appointments for December 2009 are going fast, so if you want to get in before the end of the year please do call or go online to book today. I will be out of the office from December 23rd, 2009 to January 3rd, 2010 and will resume seeing patients Tuesday January 5th. My online schedule will continue to be up and running 24 hours a day, however, so you will still able to go online and book anytime. My calendar is already up and open for booking through the beginning of March 2010 so please go online and book away! The holiday season is a GREAT time to think about what you want for the coming year, and making a commitment to your health which includes a series of acupuncture, foot reflexology or massage appointments is a perfect way to ensure that you are putting your best foot forward towards a happy and healthy new year.

Gift certificates from All Ways Well also make great gifts, support the local economy and make shopping very easy. Gift certificates can be purchased in person or online via my website where they can be emailed direct to a recipient or downloaded and printed to include in a card of your own.

Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks again for tuning in. Remember you can always book online via my website, email me direct or call at (503)445-8888 ext. 1 for appointments, consultations or if you just want to contact me with a question. Here's wishing you a WONDERFUL holiday season, and look for my next regular newsletter to be coming your way in 2010.

Happy Holidays,

~Rebecca

November 2009 All Ways Well Newsletter

In This Issue:
**H1N1 - Tips to avoid it.
**Listen to relaxation info online through iTunes U
**Holidays are coming! Be sure to take care.
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H1N1 Flu - Tips to Avoid It
Well guess what folks - the H1N1 flu is here and lots of people are getting it. The bad news - lots of people are sick because we haven't seen this strain for a while. The good news - it isn't any worse than your average flu, some reports even say that H1N1 is actually a milder strain of flu that what we normally see, and I've got some great prevention tips for you. These prevention tips were actually compiled by a good friend and colleague of mine, Dr. Jennifer Curtiss, ND with Nature's Path Family Wellness. Incorporating just a few of the tips below can go a long way to helping you avoid H1N1 this flu season:

SIMPLE STEPS TO PREVENT THE FLU from Dr. Jennifer Curtiss, ND

1. Practice frequent hand washing.
2. “Hands-off-the-face” approach, the nose, mouth, and eyes are portals for delivery of bad bugs into the body.
3. Gargle twice daily with warm salt water. H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/nasal cavity to multiply and cause symptoms. Gargling will help to prevent the virus from establishing itself in the respiratory tract.
4. Drink warm tea through out the day to wash the virus from the throat into the stomach where it cannot survive.
5. Clean your nostrils at least once daily with warm salt water, or blow the nose hard once a day and swab both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water.
6. Manage stress; high stress suppresses the immune system.
7. Get adequate rest, our immune system is most active when we are sleeping.
8. Exercise, to increase the circulation of immune cells through out the body.
9. Avoid sugar, it suppresses the immune system and feeds the bad bugs, including viruses.
10. Avoid trans-fatty acids (fried foods), which damage cells and compromise the immune system.
11. Take adequate Vitamin D. Most of us are deficient especially during the winter months. If you are unsure if you are deficient you may have your level of 25 OH Vitamin D checked by your doctor. Optimal levels are 50-99ng/ml. Children should receive 400 IU’s, adults 1000-2000 IU’s and pregnant or nursing mothers 2000-4000 IU’s of Vitamin D3 daily. Vitamin D regulates gene expression for immune cell activity. Low levels during the winter have been correlated to increased outbreaks of the flu during the winter months.
12. Supplement with Elderberry, safe for all ages, and pregnant and nursing mothers. Flavanoids from elderberry bind H1N1 virions to block the ability of the virus to infect host cells. My son has taken this since the age of 1 year in the form of a liquid glycerite. 1 tsp daily kept him healthy for the entire winter.
11. Eat garlic, a natural antimicrobial.
12. Take a well balanced multivitamin and mineral.
13. Take a probiotic to enhance immune cell activity, see your ND for specific recommendations.
13. When traveling or when in large crowds of people, chew xylitol gum, an antimicrobial, to act as another barrier against the virus.

If you have questions about or would like to purchase any of the supplements listed above - Vitamin D, probiotics - please don't hesitate to call or email me and I can help you out. Also, if you want your Vitamin D levels tested consider making an appointment with Dr. Curtiss because she can run those tests for you. In Oregon we are very lucky to be able to choose a Naturopathic Doctor as a Primary Care Physician, something you cannot do in every state. If you are looking for a new PCP, especially someone with a family practice or a fertility specialty, I highly recommend Dr. Curtiss.

Listen to relaxation info online through iTunes U
As you may have noticed, number 6 on the flu prevention list above is MANAGING STRESS which is a challenge for many people. External life factors can threaten to "mess with your calm" in a moments notice and when stress can decrease immunity during flu season, having ways to reduce stress in your daily life and having methods for recovering from stress are important to incorporate into your routine as much as possible. Receiving regular acupuncture and massage are my favorite ways to reduce stress but even I can't do that every day. While meditation is great for daily stress maintenance and reduction, many of us also suffer from "monkey mind" and have a hard time finding and making time for solitary stillness. A great option for daily relaxation between treatment, therefore, is using audiotapes, Cd's and podcasts to keep you on track and there are some great FREE ones on iTunes U.

I know this won't be for everyone, but even in absence of an iPod or MP3 player, you can download iTunes to your computer and get these for programs free - whether you have a Mac or PC. Once you have the iTunes program, all you need to do is go to the iTunes U section in the iTunes store (should be iTunes store button on Left hand side of the program) and search for "relaxation" or "meditation" and some great programs come up. You can also just browse through the Health & Medicine section of iTunes U if you prefer. I have been enjoying the Mindful Awareness Research Center programs from UCLA, but there are a myriad of them to choose from. If you're looking for an easy way to add a relaxation practice to your day, consider checking out some of the free options from iTunes U and try to spend 3-10 minutes a day listening and breathing. Even just a few minutes like this can go a long way to reducing stress in your day.

Holidays are Coming! Be sure to take care. available!
2009 seems like its been a whirlwind to me and I can't believe 2010 is right around the corner! This means the holidays are hot on our heels and staying well through the holiday season is important if you want to make the most of time with your friends and family. If you haven't been in for a while, now is a great time to call, email, or go online to book. Gift certificates from All Ways Well also make great gifts and make shopping very easy! Gift certificates can be purchased in person or online via my website where they can be emailed direct to a recipient or downloaded and printed to include in a card of your own.

Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks again for your tuning in. Remember you can always book on-line via my website, email me direct or call at (503)445-8888 ext. 1 for appointments, consultations or if you just want to contact me with a question. I hope the tips above prove helpful for staying well through the flu season!

~Rebecca

October 2009 All Ways Well Newsletter

In This Issue:
**Rebecca is all better! Thanks for your support
**Treating Fibromyalgia Naturally - great recommendations from Bob Flaws
**Appointments available! Get them while they're hot!
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Rebecca is all better! Thanks for your support.
Phew! Now that I've had my cold I'm planning another 4.5 to 5 year hiatus from illness. I've lined up my herbal formulas, I'm taking my vitamins and I am good to go. Thank you so much to all of you who sent me well wishes via email, it was very much appreciated, and thank you to everyone who was kind enough to understand my predicament and reschedule. Now that I am mended I am more determined than ever to help us all avoid feeling this way by incorporating preventative care and wellness maintenance into our routines.

If you don't have a routine or feel like your routine could use a check in, please don't hesitate to call, email me or come in for a tune up appointment to make sure you have all the preventatives you need in place this winter. With the first reported Swine Flu cases in Oregon coming across my inbox, keeping a good antiviral remedy on hand should be a given this season and if you don't have one you like, I am happy to suggest something. Two of my favorites are actually Ban Lan Gen, or Isatis Root, single herb tincture and Yin Qiao Wan which is a combination of cold fighting herbs. Both are available in my office or online if you just want to order something to be delivered to your door via my Virtual Dispensary system.

Treating Fibromyalgia Naturally - great recommendations from Bob Flaws
Bob Flaws is an amazing Acupuncturist with an interested background spanning education both here in the US and in China. He's authored a number of books and articles and has his own Chinese herbal company called Blue Poppy where he formulates both high concentration classical herbal remedies and some good modifications of his own. Recently I came across a great article of his about treating Fibromyalgia naturally and I thought his recommendations were realistic and to the point so I thought I would share. If you don't know what Fibromyalgia is don't worry - while the term is becoming more common many people are not familiar with this syndrome and the exact cause of Fibromyalgia is still unknown. Typically categorized by a combination of sleep issues and all over body pain that is especially intense at a series of specific points, as well as fatigue, Fibromyalgia is recognized as a chronic condition and can be very debilitating. Diagnosis is difficult and Western treatment generally involves various combinations of painkillers and sleep medication. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine along with lifestyle change and an experiential understanding of your personal limits can combine to create excellent treatment outcomes, however. This article by Bob Flaws outlines some of the recommended lifestyle changes you can make both to treat and prevent Fibromyalgia. Here are some of the recommendations I liked best:
1. Eliminate processed foods from the diet, especially refined sugar and white flour. These foods provide little nutrition and can damage the Spleen and Stomach energetically, which are the organs that govern not only digestion but also musculature from a Chinese perspective.
2. Find some type of exercise that you really enjoy and just do it!
3. Take a walk every day - this is a great way to break up routine and decrease stress in your day.
4. If you know you have too much stress in your life, then find a solution. This may not be something you can do on your own and seeking help through counseling or therapy might be a necessity for you to succeed and if it is, you should do it. Stress is an intense aggravating factor in Fibromyalgia and getting stress under control can be a key to feeling better and maintaining health.
5. Try to decrease or eliminate sodas from your diet. Sodas are acidic and loaded with sugar and chemicals that can damage the Spleen and Kidneys energetically.

These are just a few of the suggestions in Bob's article and for the full 11 point list, please click HERE to be directed to the Acufinder website to read more. If you know someone with Fibromyalgia or you have Fibromyalgia yourself, consider coming in for a course of Acupuncture treatment as a safe and effective alternative to Western medication.

Appointments available! Get them while they're hot!
I know my schedule has been very full of late, but there are appointments available and if you want to get in now is a great time to call, email, or go online to book. I've opened up this Saturday 10/10 to accommodate patients when I was ill, but few people have taken me up on the offer so I still have some appointments available. I've also had a couple of recurring appointments canceled through the end of the year so I actually have appointments available Saturday, next week and the week after that. If you've been wanting to get in but feeling like my schedule is too full, now is your chance! Please go online and schedule today or contact me and I will help you get on the books. These appointments will go fast too, however, so please book soon if you are interested.

Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks again for your support while I was ill, everyone, and thank you for listening today. Remember you can always book on-line via my website, email me direct or call at (503)445-8888 ext. 1 for appointments, consultations or if you just want to contact me with a question. Hope everyone is holding up through the transitions in the weather and I hope I get to see you soon!

~Rebecca

September 2009 All Ways Well Newsletter

In This Issue:
**September 3 Treatment Special - celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival!
**AHA Warning about Sugar
**Acupuncture Treatment for Sugar/Food Cravings - a great option!
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September 3 Treatment Special - Celebrate Mid Autumn Festival!
To celebrate Mid Autumn Festival I am offering my semi-annual three treatment package special. Prepay a three treatment package and get $30 off my standard time of service rates! In other words, you can purchase...
**three one-hour acupuncture treatments for $165 instead of $195
or
**three one-hour massage or foot reflexology appointments for $195 instead of $225.
Its a great deal and a wonderful gift, and it won't be offered again until Chinese New Year! Packages can be purchased on-line or in person and appointments can be booked on-line through my website as well.

So.. what is Mid Autumn Festival All About? Mid Autumn Festival is the Chinese harvest festival and is one of the biggest celebrations of the year after Chinese New Year. Mid Autumn Festival, or Zhongqiu Jie in Mandarin Chinese, often consists of families sharing a stroll to view the full harvest moon at night, enjoying a big family dinner and eating traditional Chinese Mooncakes. While delicious, mooncakes are probably the cardiovascular system's greatest fear - a flaky buttery pastry, usually 3 inches in diameter, filled with a sweet bean paste which is usually made from some combination of red beans or lotus seeds, sugar and lard. There are often competitions in China to see who can bake the biggest mooncake and one of the largest weighed in at 13 tons! Amazing yet terrifying, yes? Zhongqiu Jie is also associated with many myths and legends, most of them concerning a fated love affair between immortal archer and hero Hou Yi and the beautiful mortal maiden Chang'e. It is somewhat like a Chinese Romeo and Juliet tragedy, where Hou Yi falls in love with Chang'e after saving the world and they seek an elixir of immortality so they can be together forever. As she drinks it Hou Yi is killed by a villain who is seeking the elixir but arrives too late. In her grief, Chang'e retreats to the moon for eternity where she watches the earth she once called home from afar, now her lovers burial ground. At Mid Autumn Festival offerings are made to Chang'e. As the woman in the moon who enticed an immortal hero, she bestows beauty upon those who pay tribute.

American Heart Association Warning about Sugar - a little is a lot too much
On August 24th the American Heart Association published a paper illuminating a 20% increase in the sugar intake of our nation over the course of the last 30 years. Average sugar intake in the US today is 22.2 teaspoons or 355 calories per day. The AHA's recommended daily allowance? A mere 6 teaspoons or 100 calories max for women and 10 teaspoons or 150 calories for men. So how much is that really? Well, a can of Coca Cola has approximately 40 grams of sugar in it which is the equivalent of 8 teaspoons, almost the recommended max daily allowance for a man per day. Increased sugar intake has paced national increases in Diabetes, Obesity, Heart Disease and High Cholesterol not to mention the fact that sugar contributes to inflammation in the body and can aggravate any type of inflammatory issue including chronic pain, digestive disorders, allergies, headaches and more. By following the AHA guidelines and decreasing your sugar intake you can drastically improve your health and increase your longevity over time. I know its hard, but its worth it. If you want to get a sense of how much sugar you are consuming daily, try tracking it. My favorite method for tracking foods is The Daily Plate feature of Livestrong.com. This free calorie tracker will automatically calculate sodium, sugar, carbs, fat, fiber and protein for you if you enter your daily foods. Even tracking for just a few days can be illuminating sometimes, so if you want to know how much sugar you are getting in your diet think about checking it out. Once you've assessed your sugar intake using the Daily Plate, you will see very clearly where the sugar is coming from in your diet and you can start taking steps to adjust your eating habits accordingly.

Decreasing Sugar is Hard!! Acupuncture can help!
Okay, everyone who reaches for something sweet when they feel stressed, sad or depressed raise your hand (mine's up too!!). And how about everyone who has tried to stop eating sugar only to feel their sugar cravings get the best of them? I certainly have and acupuncture can help. Cutting sugar down or out of your diet can be very difficult because sugar and food can be addictions just like anything else. Unfortunately, unlike smoking, you can't literally can't live without eating and often times this makes food and sugar addictions some of the most difficult to admit and overcome. Acupuncture has a long proven track record with all types of addiction using ear or auricular acupuncture specifically. There are individual points located in the ear that can help control hunger and thirst as well as others that can decrease the agitation and general symptoms of withdrawl to help you persevere. When dealing with addiction of any type, more frequent shorter treatments are usually recommended. If you want to try acupuncture to help you kick the habit, plan to come in for 2-3 half-hour treatments per week for 2-3 weeks. It may take more to get through that acute phase of change or it may take less, but planning on twice a week for two weeks minimum is a good plan. If you're interested in learning more or would like to to come in please don't hesitate to call, email or book a free consultation on-line anytime.

Thanks for tuning in!
Well Happy Fall, everyone, and thank you for listening. If you haven't been in for a tune up for while now is a great time to come in. Let me help you live in harmony with the seasons to achieve optimal health and wellness the Chinese Medicine way. Book on-line via my website, email me direct or call at (503)445-8888 ext. 1. Hope you enjoy the transitions in the weather and have a great September!

~Rebecca

Slow Movement Advancing the Medicine

In This Issue:
**Enjoying the Moment - how Acupuncture can help
**Call to Action - help pass HR646 to get Acupuncture covered by Medicare
**Acupuncture Research - why its a sticky wicket
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Carl Honore TED Talk - The Slow Movement.
Enjoying the Moment can Enrich Your Life and Acupuncture Can Help!

This TED Talk is an older one, posted 2007, but I included it today for a couple reasons. I've been talking in my recent newsletters about how important it is to live in harmony with the seasons from a Chinese Medicine perspective for health and vitality but what I've failed mention is why this is important. This talk by Carl sums it up for me - its about the speed and the incessant rush to work, live, achieve and succeed in our modern society. We eat packaged foods, live in temperature controlled homes (which I don't have anything against, mind you...) and work like crazy people causing a disconnect that has us rushing through life at breakneck speed. This isn't the only way to live and be successful and the Slow Movement, including the Slow Food Movement, is testament to that. Furthermore, I heard a statistic recently that multitasking actually decreases your efficiency by 40% as compared to focusing one thing at a time. I think 40% is pretty significant, and certainly the output and success of countries like Norway where people work much shorter weeks than we do in the US yet still seem to come out at a comparable economic level is testament to the success of focused and slow.

I believe acupuncture is in alignment with this slower saner pace of life. As the seasons change the balance of Yin and Yang shifts making different seasons require different eating, sleeping and exercise habits to stay well. This requires learning about how the seasons change energetically and how to move in accordance with them, including awareness of how your specific body feels, reacts and changes seasonally based on your constitution. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine help give you that education and understanding. Furthermore, the experience of acupuncture is often one of slowing down. According to classic Chinese Medicine literature it takes 28 minutes for your energy to cycle once through all of the 12 main meridians (energetic channels) and 24 hours for your energy to peak in each individual meridian. During an acupuncture treatment, therefore, you usually rest on your own for approximately 20-30 minutes. It forces you to slow down during your day and take some time to breathe, relax and be. In this way, acupuncture can give you a chance to be in the moment and practice slowing down amidst a hectic life.

For more information on eating with the seasons in particular, I recommend reading this article - The Energetics of Foods for Health and Healing. It provides a great overview of seasonal energetic theory as well as some general recommendations for simple dietary changes to match the season.

CALL TO ACTION - Help pass HR646 and get Acupuncture covered by Medicare!
Today I am asking for your help. There is a bill on the floor right now called HR646, The Federal Acupuncture Coverage Act of 2009. If passed, it will make acupuncture a covered service under Medicare and under the Federal Employee Health Benefits Plan enabling an additional 54 million patients to access acupuncture and Chinese Medicine as a covered service. This landmark piece of legislation will change the place of Chinese Medicine in the US and bring acupuncture into the mainstream. It could truly change the face of medicine in our country - not to mention paving the way for more insurance companies to accept acupuncture as a valid reimbursable service. Please take action by writing a letter to Congress and/or calling your local congressman to help get this important bill passed. To look up your local representatives and get a sample letter to send please click HERE. Furthermore Mayway, a Chinese Herb manufacturing company, is also matching donations to the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (AAAOM) to help us lobby for this bill during the months of August and September. If you feel inclined to donate, please click HERE and follow the prompts on the website. Thank you for considering and for doing whatever you feel like you can to help.

Acupuncture Research - why is it so hard?
Ah... the minefield of Acupuncture research. And it is a minefield, ladies and gentlemen, let me tell ya. Acupuncture research in the west started in the 70's and has been going (strong?) ever since and there is one central question that has stumped all researchers for the past 30 years - how does Acupuncture work? The answer - still unknown. From a Chinese perspective, i.e. and energetic "Qi" based perspective, the answer is obvious - it moves and balances Qi. Since Qi is intangible and immeasurable according to Western science, however, the exact mechanism of action of Acupuncture is still considered to be "unknown."

This doesn't answer why acupuncture research is so hard, however, though it is an important key. Western medical research regards the double-blind placebo controlled trial as the most accurate and desirable test model. This testing structure creates a situation where both the patient and practitioner don't know whether a patient is getting an active or inactive substance - only the 3rd party moderator knows - so no one can be tipped off or mislead about their treatment or have any specific expected positive or negative outcome. Clearly, trying to do this with acupuncture is near to impossible (do you want someone putting needles in you who doesn't know they are doing it? Eek!) but researchers have tried to do their best by creating various "sham" acupuncture methods to act as control methods comparing active acupuncture treatment to inactive or "sham" acupuncture treatment. The conundrum is this - if we can't define from a Western perspective how acupuncture works, how can we guarantee that "sham" acupuncture doesn't do anything? Can you start to see why acupuncture research is so difficult to do?

Sham Acupuncture - contradiction in terms?
When it comes to sham or inactive acupuncture there are generally 2 main types. One is to use specific acupuncture points in a study and then for the "sham" control portion, to use toothpicks tapped through guide tubes to simulate acupuncture without actually puncturing anyone. To ensure that patients don't know which they are getting, a sheet or barrier is hung at neck level so the patients can't see what is happening to the body and all patients have to be newcomers - have to never have had acupuncture before. The problem with this method - anyone ever heard of acupressure? Who is to say that acupressure isn't just as effective as acupuncture when you are repeatedly stimulating the same points? Problem. The second common sham method is to use "non" acupuncture points. I.e. a panel of acupuncture experts agree on specific points for the study, and then agree on specific points that are off major energetic channels. Patients are generally allowed to see what is happening in these studies, but they have to be ignorant of point location to receive treatment. The problem here is that there are many different types of acupuncture with slightly different channel distributions and point locations, so if you follow the Traditional Chinese Medicine model only, sure, you may find "off channel" points, but who is to say they aren't "on channel" points in another system? Furthermore, there is a whole system of what is called "ah-shi" points or tender points in Traditional Chinese Acupuncture where you needle points off or on channel that are tender to the touch when treating specific syndromes. What if you hit an active ah-shi point on someone that gets you a response? Again - problem. The toothpick method is generally considered in most acupuncture circles to be a better sham method than the "off channel" point sham method, but neither are really ideal.

Ah.... sticky wicket. Ask Rebecca if you have questions.
See the minefield yet? These are just a couple of the myriad of challenge involved in acupuncture research and the result is that some acupuncture research is done well and some is not and it is important to look at acupuncture research with a critical eye. To encourage well done acupuncture research in 1996 a group of researchers and Acupuncturists came up with a list of guidelines called STRICTA that ensure the best study possible, and reading a study against these guidelines is a great way to get a sense of whether a study has been done as well as it can be or if it is seriously lacking. If you ever read a study or an acupuncture research headline you are curious about PLEASE ask me and I will be happy to review the study and tell you what I think - I have great education in research review and I will always be happy to review a study and give you an opinion about it.

Research of the future - comparative instead of reductive.
So... what do we do? What do we want to see in acupuncture research today? Considering that we probably aren't going to be able to prove the exact mechanism of action for acupuncture for a while, instead of getting hung up on it, we need the Western medical establishment to move on to the next step - i.e. engage in more comparative studies between Chinese Medicine and Western Medicine so that doctors and patients can make educated decisions about what course of treatment is going to be most effective and have the least side effects. We're getting there - some of the studies I talked about in my last newsletter moved in this direction comparing "standard treatment" i.e. Western pharmaceutical treatment to "alternative medicine treatment" i.e. acupuncture and massage. These types of studies can advance our understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of both areas of expertise and help us work collaboratively to provide the best care possible.

Thanks for tuning in!
Phew! Thank you for listening. I know research may not be the most compelling topic, but as acupuncture continues to step up closer and closer to the main stage I feel it is important to understand the strengths and weakness of the Western research model when it comes to acupuncture so that when you see something in the news media that sounds really great or really awful you can look at it with a critical eye and ask "is that really what is going on?" Furthermore, I want to be a resource for you to ask those questions of when they arise. There is much more to the research challenge, but this is some basic information that hopefully will make you feel more informed and empowered to understand.

Again, if you have a chance to write a letter or make a phone call to your local representative to advocate for HR646 please do - it will make a huge difference in the accessibility of this medicine and we need all the help we can get. Lastly, if you haven't been in for a tune up for while now is a great time to come in. Let me help you live in harmony with the seasons to achieve optimal health and wellness the Chinese Medicine way. Book online via my website, email me direct or call at (503)445-8888 ext. 1. Hope you enjoy the heat and have a great July!

~Rebecca

July 09 Newsletter: ACUPUNCTURE IN THE NEWS! PROVEN EFFECTIVE.

Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine represent a holistic method of health care
that has been around for over 3,000 years. From a western scientific
perspective, however, Acupuncture is not fully understood so here in the
West, many are still trying to validate and accept this ancient healing art.
In the past several months some very interesting studies and news stories
have been coming out showing the increased popularity and acceptance of
Acupuncture and also validating its effectiveness. Today I want to share
some of that news with you to celebrate Acupuncture's increased visibility
and share some valuable info along the way.

Child Acupressure at Seattle Children's Hospital
This story ran last month on King 5 News in Seattle. At Seattle
Children's Hospital, Acupuncture and Acupressure are commonly used as
adjunct therapies for a wide range of disorders, yet this story focused on
four and a half year old Riley who suffered from severe headaches and
stomach aches. After only two treatments his results were dramatic - all
smiles on the pain chart. His mom feels empowered that she has a natural
method to help him with his pain and Riley can now play and live his early
life pain free. In Chinese Medicine there is a subset of acupressure
treatment called Pediatric Tuina that is especially effective for
children under 6 but can be used on children up to age 12. After a few
treatments with a practitioner, parents can often learn the basics of this
technique to provide care at home as well. For more information and a video
of the news story, click HERE.

Acupuncture Effective Treatment for Headache
In 2001 a Cochrane Review published an article about Acupuncture for
migraines and at the beginning of this year, they updated the review looking
at more recent research reporting on tension headaches specifically. This
review focused on studies comparing basic care (pain killers) to basic care
+ Acupuncture and basic care + "sham" Acupuncture. The review showed that
patients receiving basic care plus Acupuncture reported an average 50%
reduction in the number of headache days experienced during the trial period
vs. 16% reduction for basic care alone. Basic care plus "sham" acupuncture
also performed better than basic care alone. Therefore, patients receiving
both the sham and real acupuncture treatments showed significant improvement
over basic care alone. A similar study was also completed in Germany at
the end of last year - the largest study of its kind - stating in the end
that "treatment with additional acupuncture resulted in a clinically
relevant and persistent benefit." For more information on the theory behind
Chinese Medicine treatment for headache and migraine, click HERE.

Acupuncture and Exercise Bring Relief for Women with Polycystic Ovarian
Syndrome (PCOS)
Another exciting study was released just this week by the American
Physiological Society showing electro-acupuncture and exercise to create
measurable improvement in menstrual regularity and in decreasing sympathetic
nerve response (fight or flight) which plays a role in insulin resistance,
cardiovascular disease, infertility and obesity in women with PCOS. The
study was small, but significant as it represented the first study of its
kind comparing electro-acupuncture and exercise to control (no treatment)
for this disorder. PCOS is also increasingly common affecting approximately
10% of US women of reproductive age. Current basic western medical care
usually involves a combination of hormone therapy and anti-diabetic drugs
and the validation of Chinese Medicine + exercise as an effective
alternative is welcome news for many sufferers. In Traditional Chinese
Medicine, PCOS is most commonly treated with a combination of Acupuncture,
diet and herbal therapies. For more information about the Chinese Medicine
theory behind treating PCOS click HERE.

A Note about Acupuncture Research
As Western Acupuncture research continues to become more common, it is
important to note that there is good research and bad research, and also
that the media often takes research to strange places skewing the actual
findings of the studies. Next month I am going discuss these issues a
little more fully - including some of the basic methods of "sham"
Acupuncture and why they do and do not work. So please enjoy the
information above and stay tuned for an interesting discussion next month!

Lastly - Quick Tip for Eating Cool this Summer
In case you couldn't guess, Summer according to the Chinese Medicine theory
of the seasons, is the time of full Yang or Heat. During this full Yang
time, indigestion can easily occur so increasing the amount of cooling foods
- foods that energetically help you clear heat, reduce toxins and generate
body fluids - are recommended. In general, cooling foods are towards the
green end of the spectrum - cucumbers, broccoli, watercress. Seafood is
also cooling and most meats, red meat in particular, are warm in nature.
At the end of this message is a good starting list of fruits and vegetables to help your
body stay healthy and cool during the hot summer months. If you have a hard
time getting enough fruits and vegetables into you diet, especially organic
ones which are always recommended, consider a service like Spud! Organic
Produce Delivery. A quick trip to their website and you can have an
abundant, organic bin of fantastic local fruits and vegetables delivered to
your door at a price noticeably below purchasing organic produce at Whole
Foods or New Seasons. Furthermore, if you enter the code CR-1005173 you
can $25 off. I use it and can't imagine being without it anymore and I'm
really excited they've made this offer available for me to share with you.

That's the News
Thanks for tuning in and have a wonderful 4th of July. If you have
vacation planned I hope you have a wonderful time, and if you haven't been
in for a while now is a great time soak up some health and wellness along
with the sun. Book online anytime or call at (503)445-8888 ext. 1.
Also, don't forget that our new LMT - Jamaica Stevens - is still offering a
$40 one hour Swedish Massage new patient special to current All Ways Well
patients. You can book that online or call (503)445-8888 ext. 4 if you'd
like to check out Jamaica's services. If you book online please note "$40
special"
in the Notes section when you book and enjoy!


Best wishes for a happy healthy summer - Rebecca

Some Summer Foods to Keep Cool:
* Watermelon
* Apricot
* Cantaloupe
* Lemon
* Peach
* Orange
* Asparagus
* Sprouts
* Bamboo
* Bok choy
* Broccoli
* Chinese cabbage
* Corn
* Cucumber
* White mushroom
* Snow peas
* Spinach
* Summer squash
* Watercress
* Seaweed
* Mung means
* Cilantro
* Mint
* Dill

Live in Harmony with the Seasons

Live in Harmony with the Seasons

Five Phases (Seasons) in Chinese Medicine
Chinese Medicine is a medicine of the seasons, based in part on an understanding that all change in the universe and in your body happens in five distinct phases that correspond to the seasons - namely:

• Wood (Spring)
• Fire (Summer)
• Earth (Late Summer)
• Metal (Autumn)
• Water (Winter)

Chinese medicine works by balancing the bodies Qi (energy), Yin and Yang in relation to the five phases to achieve optimal health. To help you be well and stay well by living in harmony with the seasons, here are some of my favorite wellness tips for Spring as well as a special offer from our newest Suite 103 Practitioner. Be Well and Enjoy!

Spring: Invite the Wood Element
Spring is dominated by the wood element in Chinese medicine which governs the Liver and the Gallbladder organs. The Liver and Gallbladder are related to growth, change, benevolence, creativity and deciding a course of action. In this spirit, Spring is a time for clearing out the old to make way for the new. A great way to do this is to focus on your diet, ensuring that your digestion is smooth and healthy. How do you do this?

First, try to include more greens in your diet. Green is the color of Spring and of the wood element, and green veggies are a great source of fiber, antioxidants and important vitamins and minerals. If you are having a hard time including greens in your diet - especially good organic veggies - consider a service like spud! Spud! is a local organic produce delivery service that will bring local fruits, veggies and more right to your door. I use it at home and not only does it help me ensure that I'm getting plenty of fresh and local foods, but it saves me valuable time shopping and reduces my carbon footprint. If you're interested in checking it out, use the code CR5-1005173 for a $25 discount.

Next, try drinking some milk thistle tea or taking milk thistle caps daily through the Spring months. Milk Thistle is an antioxidant that targets the liver, protecting it from incoming toxins as well as encouraging it to cleanse itself of damaging substances like alcohol, medications and environmental toxins

Lastly, if you haven't been in for a tune up for a while, now is a great time to check in. Since Chinese Medicine is a seasonal medicine, coming in with the change of seasons is always recommended as a minimum health maintenance program.

Office Updates

Welcome Jamaica Stevens, LMT - $40 new patient offer
Yes, we have a new massage therapist joining us on Saturdays who specializes in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Pregnancy Massage and Reiki and she is truly amazing. She's offering a special $40 first appointment offer to all current patients - a very generous offer for her outstanding service. Simply go online to our online scheduler and book a one hour massage with Jamaica to take advantage of this offer. Please note "$40 new patient special" in the notes section of your appointment. Slots are going fast, so I recommend booking soon if you are interested.

Rebecca Honored by Cambridge Who's Who
Nifty, huh? Rebecca has just been honored by Cambridge Who's Who Among Americal Entrepreneurs as an Outstanding Professional in the field of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Spread the word! Press release can be seen by looking back one blog post.

Rebecca Honored by Cambridge Who's Who

Well, I've finally done it... gotten recognized! I've just been recognized by Cambridge Who's Who as an outstanding professional in my field which has me feeling honored, humbled and appreciative. To read more check out the link HERE.

Thank you so much to all my patients and colleagues who have believed in me as I've progressed along my journey as an Acupuncturist. I love what I do every day and I feels so blessed that it shows!

Thank you,
~Rebecca

Acupuncture in Pregnancy and Childbirth

Pregnancy is an amazing time in a woman's life. Many women report feeling healthier than they have ever felt before; however, the physical growth of the baby and changes in hormone levels can bring about pain, discomfort and a variety of health problems.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can provide a safe, effective alternative for many of the health complications that may arise before, during and after pregnancy. A growing number of women are choosing acupuncture to use throughout their pregnancy and as an optional treatment for an overdue or difficult labor.

Planning for a Healthy Baby

Healthy parents produce healthy babies. With acupuncture and Oriental medicine, parents can improve their health to create the most optimal environment for their unborn child. In addition to their ability to strengthen, support, and balance overall health and well-being, acupuncture and Oriental medicine are an effective treatment for regulating menstruation and hormone levels, reducing stress and addressing any pre-existing medical conditions or concerns that a woman may have.

Acupuncture during Pregnancy

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can play a vital role in the comfort of a pregnant woman. There is strong evidence to support that acupuncture is highly effective at treating some of the most common problems experienced during pregnancy including morning sickness, heartburn, insomnia, water retention and sciatica.

Here is a list of some of the problems that an acupuncturist often treats during pregnancy:

* Nausea and Vomiting
* Heartburn
* Constipation
* Hemorrhoids
* Edema and Swelling
* Urinary Tract Infection
* Pelvic Pain
* Neck and Back Pain
* Sciatica
* Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
* Leg Cramps
* Fatigue and Exhaustion
* Insomnia
* Anxiety and Depression

Acupuncture for Childbirth

While there are acupuncture points that can provide natural pain relief during labor, acupuncture is more commonly used to induce labor. There are several points that stimulate contractions and influence cervical ripening. There is also an acupuncture point that has been found to turn a breech baby.

Acupuncture Postpartum

Many women feel depleted after the birth experience. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help the transition of those first few months after birth to ensure a quick recovery. Postpartum care focuses on the physical, emotional and psychological recovery of the mother from the effects of pregnancy and labor, as well as encouraging breast feeding.

Here are some of the postpartum disorders that can be treated with acupuncture:
* Fatigue
* Postpartum Depression
* Mastitis
* Insufficient or Excessive Lactation
* Post Operative Healing
* Night Sweats

If you would like to know more how acupuncture and Oriental medicine ease discomfort and facilitate pregnancy, please call for more information.

UB 67 for Turning Breech Babies

An acupuncture point on the small toe of the foot (Urinary Bladder 67) has been found to effectively revolve fetuses in breech presentation.

In an Italian study, 240 women at 33-35 weeks of gestation carrying a fetus in breech presentation were randomized to receive acupuncture plus moxibustion (an herb used to apply heat to an acupuncture point) or to be assigned to the observation group. At delivery, the proportion of babies that had turned from breech position to vertex (head-down) position was 53.6 % in the group treated with acupuncture while the proportion of babies that had turned from breech position to vertex position in the observation group was 36.7%.

Source: J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2004 Apr;15(4):247-52

Safety of Acupuncture While Pregnant

Acupuncture is safe to use while you are pregnant; however, there are some points that can cause contractions and should NOT be needled during pregnancy or should be used with extreme caution.

Acupuncture Points to Avoid During Pregnancy:

* Large Intestine 4
* Spleen 6
* Gallbladder 21
* Points on the sacrum
* Point on the lower abdomen
* Point on the low back

There are also many herbal remedies that are contraindicated during pregnancy. Always err on the side of caution with all herbs and medications while you are expecting.

Common Acupuncture Points used During Pregnancy

Zhubin (K 9) – 'beautiful baby point'
Location: Above the medial malleolus (inner ankle bone), right below the calf muscle.
Function: Calms the mind, builds or tonifies blood.
Indication: Good for hypertension, fear, anxiety, nightmares, and mental disorders.

Zusanli (St 36)
Location: Four fingers below the knee cap, on the outer edge of the tibia.
Function: Strengthens overall constitution, builds blood and Qi, resolves edema, and harmonizes meridians that control digestive functions.
Indication: Great point for diarrhea, constipation, gastric pain and indigestion. Also helps with insomnia, edema (water retention), and increases energy level.

Neiguan (P6) – 'morning sickness and motion sickness point'
Location: Two fingers above the inner wrist.
Function: Calms the mind, harmonizes the stomach.
Indication: This is THE point for nausea and vomiting. It is also one of the most relaxing acupuncture points and is used for both insomnia and anxiety.



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Swine Flu? We'll be Well!

Ways to Stay Well and Beat the Flu
There's been a lot in the news lately about the Swine Flu and yes - the Swine Flu may be coming to our area but thanks to Chinese Medicine and some common sense, we have every reason to believe that we will be perfectly fine. The presentation of the Swine Flu looks much like any other flu - sore throat, fever, body aches - and despite all the attention this is getting in the news, there have actually been relatively few cases reported for a "pandemic" and only one death. In the great flu pandemic of 1918 over 500,000 Americans died, just to give you some perspective, and it looks like the Swine Flu is mostly under control in the US at this point. However, most susceptible are the very old and very young and those people that work with these populations and if that defines you, or you just want to take extra precautions to be safe here are some great tips and Chinese Medicine tools to help you stay well:

• Wash your hands before eating or touching your face - and ideally you want to wash your hands under the faucet for 20 seconds. How do you know when you've been under the water long enough? Going through the ABC's is the child standard, but the bridge (funny voice part) from Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen is also approximately the right length. Sing away (preferably in your mind) while washing!

• Take Jade Windscreen - this classic herbal formula is a Chinese immune tonic to bolster your defenses against colds, flus and allergies. Its a great addition to any preventative regime.
  

• Try Isatis Root aka Ban Lan Gen - Isatis root is a Chinese herb known for its strong antiviral properties. It can be used preventatively if you are in a high risk environment (nurse, teacher, etc.) or can be taken at the onset of cold or flu to address the viral component of the pathogen. In China it is also used in anti cancer formulations.
  

• Stock up on Yin Qiao San - Yin Qiao is one of my favorite herbal formulas which is specifically for sore-throat type colds at the initial onset of illness. A strong dose at the very beginning of a tickle in your throat is often enough to stave off whatever is going around the office.
  

• Get plenty of rest and decrease stress! - Sleeplessness and high stress both decrease the bodies natural defenses. Try to be kind to yourself and get a good night's sleep and that too will go a long way to keeping you well.
  

So there are some tips to help you stay well and avoid the Swine Flu as well as whatever else might be lurking around your workplace. Simple tips, but they can go a long way to help. The herbal formulas mentioned are available in my office and now online in my new Virtual Dispensary as both capsules and as tinctures (an alcohol extract). Both are very effective though tinctures are often easier to carry around in your purse or coat pocket. If you have questions about anything mentioned, please don't hesitate to call or email me and I'll be happy to answer.

So rest up, be well and if you haven't been in for a while now is a great time for a tune up. My schedule has been getting pretty busy of late, so if you're thinking about coming in be sure to book sooner rather than later!

April Qi Mail Newsletter - Irritability and Mood

Treating Irritability and Moodiness with Acupuncture

Everyone suffers from irritability and moodiness from time to time, but if you find that a short temper and frustration are becoming a constant issue for you, then acupuncture may be able to help.

Often irritability and moodiness are the consequence of chronic stress in your life. Over time these emotions can progress into more serious emotional conditions such as anxiety and depression as well as other health conditions such as digestive problems, trouble sleeping and the tendency to get sick more frequently.

Liver Qi Stagnation and Emotions

Within Oriental medicine emotional disorders can be associated with a number of different patterns of disharmony; however, anger, irritability, and frustration are all signs that our qi is not flowing smoothly. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi (life force) throughout the body and for smoothing our emotions. When the liver’s function of moving qi is disrupted, qi can become stuck. This is referred to as liver qi stagnation.

Liver qi stagnation is one of the most common patterns of disharmony seen in today’s patients. In addition to irritability and moodiness, signs and symptoms may include distending pain in the area below the ribs, stuffiness of the chest, sighing, abdominal distention, nausea, sour regurgitation, belching, diarrhea or constipation, feeling of a lump in the throat, irregular periods, painful periods and distention of the breasts prior to periods. Liver qi stagnation is commonly associated with PMS.

Acupuncture is excellent at relieving liver qi stagnation. Treatment for irritability and moodiness associated with liver qi stagnation focuses on moving qi and supporting the liver and spleen organ systems with acupuncture, lifestyle and dietary recommendations and perhaps an herbal formula.

If you are concerned that your emotions may be interfering with your health and wellness, please call to see how acupuncture can help.

Move Your Qi!

The liver is responsible for the smooth flowing of Qi (life force) throughout the body. When the liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. So, for optimum health, move your Qi!

Stretch - The liver controls the tendons. According to Oriental medicine, the liver stores blood during periods of rest and then releases it to the tendons in times of activity, maintaining tendon health and flexibility. Incorporate a morning stretch into your routine. Try yoga or tai qi.

Eye Exercises - The liver opens into the eyes. Although all the organs have some connection to the health of the eyes, the liver is connected to proper eye function. Remember to take breaks when looking at a computer monitor for extended periods of time and do eye exercises.

Eat Green - Green is the color of the liver. Eating young plants - fresh, leafy greens, sprouts, and immature cereal grasses - can improve the liver’s overall functions and aid in the movement of qi.

Try Something Sour - Foods and drinks with sour tastes are thought to stimulate the liver's qi. Put lemon slices in your drinking water, use vinegar and olive oil for your salad dressing and garnish your sandwich with a slice of dill pickle.

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.

Enjoy Milk Thistle Tea - Milk thistle helps protect liver cells from incoming toxins and encourages the liver to cleanse itself of damaging substances, such as alcohol, medications, pesticides, environmental toxins, and even heavy metals such as mercury.

Get Acupuncture Treatments - Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help improve the overall health of your liver as well as treat stress, anger and frustration, which are often associated with liver qi disharmony.

Periodic acupuncture treatments can serve to tonify the inner organ systems and can correct minor annoyances before they become serious problems.

The Four Gates Treatment for Moving Qi

A popular treatment for the stress, anger, and frustration associated with liver qi stagnation is known as the “Four Gates.” The four gates are the right and left side acupuncture points Liver 3 (Taichong) and Large Intestine 4 (Hegu).

Together these four acupuncture points enhance the circulation of qi and blood throughout the body and have a calming and analgesic effect. They are also used to alleviate pain.

Large Intestine 4 is located on the padded area of your hand between the thumb and index finger, between the first and second metacarpal bones. Massage this point with your thumb on both hands for approximately 30 seconds.

Liver 3 is located in a hollow on the top of your foot below the gap between your big toe and the next toe, between the 1st and 2nd metatarsal bones. To stimulate this point, place your right heel in the juncture between the bones that attach to the large and second toes and gently knead the point for approximately thirty seconds. Then switch sides to stimulate liver 3 on your other foot.

Signs and Symptoms of Liver Qi Stagnation

Here are some of the symptoms commonly associated with liver qi stagnation:

* Pain or discomfort anywhere along the sides of the body
* Depression
* Mood swings
* Sighing
* Hiccups
* Frustration
* Inappropriate anger
* Sensation of a lump in throat
* Difficulty swallowing
* Bitter taste in mouth
* Constipation or diarrhea
* Abdominal distention and discomfort
* Stomachache that improves after massage
* Stomachache that worsens with anger
* PMS with irritability or swollen breasts
* Irregular or painful periods
* Poor appetite
* Churning sensation in stomach
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Free De-Stress Kit + the Magic of Mint

De-Stress Kit for Changing Times by Doc Childre of the Heartmath Institute
In light of the current economic situation and high unemployment of late, it is no surprise that stress is on the rise. Recently, Doc. Childre of the Hearthmath Institute - an internationally recognized institute dedicated to facilitating heart based living - published this free ebook detailing simple methods for decreasing stress towards maintaining and increasing heart health. It is a short 15 page pamphlet with practical tips and advice for getting stress under control to help you live your life from a place of balance rather than fear and I highly recommend you download and read it or pass it on to a friend. Here is a sample exercise I found particularly useful:

“Sit quietly and from your heart remember that enough stress is already going on, without having to wear a backpack of fear on top of that. Breathe quietly through the area around your heart and imagine that you are breathing in the attitude of courage and strength to do what you have to do, without being preoccupied with fear. Doing this with a genuine attitude helps take the significance out of fear. Practice this for a few minutes a day and anytime you feel a strong wave of fear. It can begin to make a difference.”

You can download the complete ebook HERE or visit the Learning Center on my website for more information. The Heartmath Institute also has a variety of tools available for decreasing stress, anxiety, blood pressure and increasing heart health. You can find their books and biofeedback tools in my Amazon Store.

Bo He. Good for more than just Mojito’s
Bo He [pronounced Bu-o-uh Huh] is very common in the Pacific Northwest, many of us have probably pulled it as a weed or used it in Mojito’s. Can you guess what it is? Peppermint! As a lightweight, acrid and aromatic herb, it helps move and disperse “pathogenic factors” which contribute to colds, flus and allergy symptoms. Bo He can also move Liver Qi for reducing stress and pain. Here is a summary of Bo He’s actions and indications:
Bo He; Herba Menthae:
Channels Entered: Lung, Liver
Temperature/Flavor: Cool, Acrid
Functions/Indications:
**Disperse Wind-Heat treating early stage colds and flus with fever, slight aversion to cold and headache
**Clear the head and eyes and benefit the throat for headache, red eyes, swollen throat
**Vent rashes for early stage measles or itchy skin conditions
**Course Stagnant Liver Qi for treating abdominal distention and pain as well as feelings of stress or emotional constraint.

Energetically it enters the Lung and Liver channels and is cool in nature, and since it is lightweight, it rises to the orifices clearing stagnation from the head and eyes in particular. This means peppermint as part of an herbal decoction, or as plain old peppermint tea is especially useful in relieving head and eye symptoms associated with colds, flus and allergies. Also, since Bo He enters the Liver channel as well as the Lung, it can also be used to alleviate “Liver Qi Stagnation” which can manifest as abdominal pain and distention or as stress - a feeling that you are stuck, trapped or overwhelmed by life. By freeing your Liver Qi or energy you can relieve some of this tension to balance the emotions. If you are using fresh mint from your yard simply pick the plant and boil it in water for 10-15 minutes to make a tea. You can also focus your “treatment” by using different parts of the plant - the leaves enter the Lung channel more readily for cold and flu symptoms while the stems enter the Liver channel more readily for abdominal discomfort and stress.

Follow me on Twitter!
I'll be using Twitter to post interesting links and information and to list last minute appointment availability when I have cancellations. Click above to go to my Twitter page. Tweet!!

Sign up for QiMail
QiMail is a an additional monthly newsletter delivered mid-month to your inbox that is filled with Chinese Medicine Information only. If you just can't get enough and you want even more health tips to help you stay well, click HERE and enjoy! QiMail newsletters are also posted on my Blog at Blogger.com if you've missed an issue and want to check it out.

Amazon Store
I'm constantly expanding the items in my new Amazon Store to include my favorite books about health, wellness, nutrition and Chinese Medicine as well as teas, healthy snacks and now some of my favorite cold and flu remedies. A great resource for hand-picked wellness resources.

Learning Center Growing, Virtual Dispensary Coming!
I've written my first article about Food Allergies and Elimination Diets and posted it to my new Learning Center and will continue growing the articles and links online so please check it out when you get a chance. Soon I will also have a Virtual Dispensary up and running where you can order and refill your favorite herbs and supplements directly online if you can't make it in to the office. Stay tuned!!

"Your Genes Are Not Your Fate"

A Tip of the Hat to Dr. Dean Ornish


This short 3 minute video is a brief talk by Dr. Dean Ornish, a man who proved scientifically that heart disease is REVERSIBLE through diet, exercise and lifestyle change. He is also the author of "The Spectrum: A Scientifically Proven Program to Feel Better, Live Longer, Lose Weight and Gain Health" and "Dean Ornish's Program for Reversing Heart Disease" among other things. I hope you enjoy this short video about his perspective, key to which is stress reduction and avoiding/reducing chronic stress in particular. Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine are a great way to combat stress. By balancing the bodies energetic system, especially the Liver and Heart meridians which govern the mind and emotions, Acupuncture, reflexology and Chinese Herbs can decrease anxiety, increase calm and increase your capacity to "stay cool" during a crisis.

Website Redesigned with more Educational Information + Amazon Store of Patient Resources!
That's right! I felt it was time for my website to have a new pair of shoes and so voila! I gave it one. In addition to a new look I've added a Learning Center which will be populated with articles about health, Chinese diet and lifestyle advice, information about Chinese medicine treatment for specific disorders and more. For now it has some good links to some of my favorite resources for learning more about getting well and staying that way as well as a link to my new Amazon Store! I've been feeling recently like I recommend so many books and resources to patients that I'm constantly sending out emails with links to more information and I wanted to consolidate that information to one location that would be easy for patients and people wanting to learn more about Chinese medicine and health to go. I'll be increasing and updating the inventory there frequently, so check back often, AND I will be adding a music section with the tunes I play in my office as well - I get requests for those CD's a lot! Check in out using THIS link.

Green Tea - A cup a day to keep the doctor away
Green tea has been used as medicine in China for thousands of years and recently, the west has been catching on. Traditionally used in combination with Chinese Herbs for headache, mental fog, colds and flu's, it provides the body with powerful antioxidants that have been proven effective in increasing the strength of the immune system, inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, inhibiting the abnormal formation of blood clots (thus decreasing stroke and heart attack risk) and decreasing LDL (bad cholesterol) levels just to name of few of its most exciting health benefits. If you want to add one simple thing to your routine to increase your health and longevity, adding green tea into your diet is a great way to go but people often wonder how much is too much? And what if you want decaf? Is it still effective? To answer the first question - officially, you can't have too much as long as the caffeine isn't effecting you in a negative way but personally, I recommend no more than 3 cups of caffeinated green tea per day. While green tea has much less caffeine than coffee, it is still caffeinated and caffeine can contribute to stress, anxiety, tension as well as miscarriage so I always advise decreasing caffeine in the diet as much as possible. Luckily, decaffeinated green tea IS as effective as caffeinated green tea but then the question becomes - where do we get good decaf? Bag teas typically contain the lowest grade tea leftovers and lack the delicate tantalizing flavors of whole leaf green tea, but I for one have not been able to find whole leaf decaf. Luckily there is a simple - and ancient - solution. Throw away the first steep and drink everything after. Most of the caffeine in green tea is lost during the first steep so if you throw this away you are left with delicious decaf which you can consume to your hearts delight with all the great health benefits and flavor you desire, and you're only limited by how many steeps you can get out of a single pot. Traditionally in Chinese tea ceremonies the tea from first steep is used to warm the cups but is discarded and not consumed. My favorite tea shop in town is the Tao of Tea which has stores in SE Belmont area, in the Pearl district and inside the Chinese Garden downtown. They are very friendly about helping you learn more if you have questions.

Hope to see you soon!
Well, I hope this message finds you well and that you enjoy the Ornish video with a nice cup of green tea in hand. Please do check out the revisions to my website if you get a chance and stay tuned for more educational content - its coming soon! Yours - Rebecca