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)
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.
