February is the American Heart Association's Heart Health Awareness Month, emphasizing the dangers of heart disease and the importance of heart health.
Heart disease includes conditions affecting the heart, such as coronary heart disease, heart attacks, congestive heart failure, and congenital heart disease. Despite dramatic medical advances over the past fifty years, heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally and the number one cause of death in the United States.
By integrating acupuncture and Oriental medicine into your heart healthy lifestyle, you can dramatically reduce your risk of heart disease.
Taking small steps to improve your health can reduce your risk for heart disease by as much as eighty percent. Steps to prevention include managing high blood pressure, quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress and improved sleep - all of which can be helped with acupuncture.
1. Manage High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure makes the heart work harder, increasing its oxygen demands and contributing to angina. This excessive pressure can lead to an enlarged heart (cardiomegaly), as well as damage to blood vessels in the kidneys and brain. It increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke and kidney disease.
Acupuncture has been found to be particularly helpful in lowering blood pressure. By applying acupuncture needles at specific sites along the wrist, inside the forearm or in the leg, researchers at the Susan Samueli Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of California, Irvine, were able to stimulate the release of opioids, which decreases the heart's activity and thus its need for oxygen. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure.
2. Quit Smoking
Most people associate cigarette smoking with breathing problems and lung cancer. But did you know that smoking is also a major cause of coronary artery disease? In fact, about twenty percent of all deaths from heart disease are directly related to cigarette smoking.
Acupuncture has shown to be an effective treatment for smoking. Acupuncture treatments for smoking cessation focus on jitters, cravings, irritability, and restlessness; symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is associated with diabetes, high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, all of which increase the risk of developing heart disease, but studies have shown that excess body weight itself (and not just the associated medical conditions) can also lead to heart failure. Even if you are entirely healthy otherwise, being overweight still places you at a greater risk of developing heart failure.
Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine are an excellent adjunctive tool when it comes to losing weight. They can help to energize the body, maximize the absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite, and reduce anxiety.
4. Reduce Stress
Stress is a normal part of life. But if left unmanaged, stress can lead to emotional, psychological, and even physical problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, chest pains, or irregular heart beats. Medical researchers aren't sure exactly how stress increases the risk of heart disease. Stress itself might be a risk factor, or it could be that high levels of stress make other risk factors worse. For example, if you are under stress, your blood pressure goes up, you may overeat, you may exercise less, and you may be more likely to smoke.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress, anxiety and mental health. In addition to acupuncture, Oriental medicine offers a whole gamut of tools and techniques that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check. These tools include Tui Na, Qi Gong exercises, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, meditations and acupressure that you can administer at home.
5. Improve Sleep
Poor sleep has been linked with high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, heart failure, heart attacks, stroke, diabetes, and obesity. Researchers have shown that getting at least eight hours of sleep is needed for good heart health and getting less than eight hours of sleep can put you at a greater risk for developing heart disease.
Acupuncture has shown great success treating a wide array of sleep problems without any of the side effects of prescription or over-the-counter sleep aids. The acupuncture treatments for problems sleeping focus on the root disharmony within the body that is causing the insomnia. Therefore, those who use acupuncture for insomnia achieve not only better sleep, but also an overall improvement of physical and mental health.
Visit your acupuncturist during Heart Health Awareness Month to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can assist you with your heart health and help you to live a long, healthy life.
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Green Tea
Study Shows Acupuncture Significantly Lowers Blood Pressure
A German study published in the journal, Circulation, found that acupuncture significantly lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The extent of the blood pressure reductions by acupuncture treatments was comparable to those seen with antihypertensive medication or aggressive lifestyle changes, including radical salt restrictions.
For the study, 160 outpatients with uncomplicated, mild to moderate hypertension were randomized to six weeks of acupuncture performed by Oriental medicine practitioners or to a sham procedure. Patients underwent 22 sessions, each 30 minutes in length. By the end of the six weeks, 24 hour ambulatory systolic and diastolic blood pressures were significantly reduced from baseline in the acupuncture treated patients (5.4 mm Hg and 3.0 mm Hg, respectively). No significant changes were seen in the sham acupuncture group.
After six months the blood pressure reductions disappeared, leading investigators to conclude that ongoing acupuncture treatments would be required to maintain the blood pressure reductions.
Source: Circulation, June 2007
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Friday, February 19, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
February 2010 All Ways Well Newsletter
In This Issue:
**Welcome the Year of the Tiger - 3 treatment special!
**Fitness from a Chinese Medicine Perspective
**Welcome new practitioners Summer, Ashley and Noreen!
---------------------
Welcome the Year of the Tiger (and Valentines Day!) - 3 treatment special!
Well, not only is 2010 now fully in swing, but February 14th marks the lunar new year, in addition to being Valentines Day. This is the Chinese zodiac year of the Metal Tiger which may be an interesting year for us all. The Tiger is a very lucky, charismatic zodiac sign, characterized by an outgoing personality, bravery, extreme courage and stark honesty. The Metal element gives the Tiger a sharpness in action and speed of thought, and a decisive nature though sometimes it can also be described as rash, and can also bring a cutting focus on attaining any given goal or objective. Metal is also the element of the Lungs and Large Intestine in Chinese Medicine which, combined with the Tiger year, indicates that this is a year to be patient, honest and to pay close attention to important decisions. A year to guard against health issues especially those that could affect the Lungs and Large Intestine and a year to strive to embody the bravery and honesty of the Tiger come what may.
To help you prepare for this important year and plan prudently for your heath in the coming months in particular, I am offering my semi-annual 3 treatment special during the month of February. Purchase a package of 3 Acupuncture, Massage or Foot Reflexology treatments and receive $30! Pricing is as follows:
**3 Acupuncture Treatments $165 (normally $195)
**3 Foot Reflexology or Massage Treatments $195 (normally $225)
These treatments must be purchased during the month of February but can be used anytime. If they are purchased on-line as a gift, the gift certificate will have a one year expiration date, meaning that you have to at least book your first appointment during that time to redeem the package. You can purchase treatment packages in office, over the phone by calling (503)445-8888 ext. 1 or on-line via my website by using the "Gift Certificate" link (even if you're purchasing it for yourself!). Treatment packages also make great Valentines day gifts for someone you love and want to help put their health first during the Year of the Tiger.
Fitness from a Chinese Medicine Perspective
A New Year often brings some common resolutions - eat better, lose weight, exercise more, be healthier - and Chinese medicine has ways to address and assist in all of these goals. Today, however, I wanted to share some bits about fitness from a Chinese Medicine perspective and leave you with some practical tips you can incorporate in to any health regime to help you improve your physical - and energetic - health. The muscles in particular are governed by the Earth element, specifically the Spleen, meaning that from a Chinese perspective, digestive health and abdominal strength are important contributing factors to overall muscular health. A strong core is also essential for supporting the spine and having a strong back, so including core strength exercises into any workout regime is important. Exercise and movement also move Qi in the body, improving energy flow and reducing blockages and stagnation. In this way, physical exercise has a direct effect on overall energetic health, especially when breath and movement are synchronized such as in Taiji, Qigong and Yoga. Lastly, in Chinese Medicine the Mind is also said to focus and direct the Spirit, so adding focused intention to any exercise or movement will also increase the effectiveness of, and energetic benefit from, your effort.
With these principles in mind, here are some Chinese Medicine-rooted ideas to make the most of your fitness regime:
Welcome new practitioners Summer, Ashley and Noreen!
We have a few new practitioners starting up in the Suite 103 office so please welcome them! Summer Knight, LMT and Ashley Mueller, LMT are our new LMT's and between them and Jamaica, we now have Deep Tissue, Swedish Massage, Foot Reflexology, Thai Massage and Integrative Bodywork available Monday-Saturday! Also we have Noreen Drake, LAc., who is excited to get her Acupuncture practice up and running on Mondays upcoming! Check back regularly to see when appointments are availble, or use the contact information below to schedule appointments or ask questions of them directly:
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks again for tuning in and I hope you'll take advantage of my Chinese New Year and Valentines Day 3 treatment special. Remember that 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.
Welcome to the Year of the Tiger,
~Rebecca
**Welcome the Year of the Tiger - 3 treatment special!
**Fitness from a Chinese Medicine Perspective
**Welcome new practitioners Summer, Ashley and Noreen!
---------------------
Welcome the Year of the Tiger (and Valentines Day!) - 3 treatment special!
Well, not only is 2010 now fully in swing, but February 14th marks the lunar new year, in addition to being Valentines Day. This is the Chinese zodiac year of the Metal Tiger which may be an interesting year for us all. The Tiger is a very lucky, charismatic zodiac sign, characterized by an outgoing personality, bravery, extreme courage and stark honesty. The Metal element gives the Tiger a sharpness in action and speed of thought, and a decisive nature though sometimes it can also be described as rash, and can also bring a cutting focus on attaining any given goal or objective. Metal is also the element of the Lungs and Large Intestine in Chinese Medicine which, combined with the Tiger year, indicates that this is a year to be patient, honest and to pay close attention to important decisions. A year to guard against health issues especially those that could affect the Lungs and Large Intestine and a year to strive to embody the bravery and honesty of the Tiger come what may.
To help you prepare for this important year and plan prudently for your heath in the coming months in particular, I am offering my semi-annual 3 treatment special during the month of February. Purchase a package of 3 Acupuncture, Massage or Foot Reflexology treatments and receive $30! Pricing is as follows:
**3 Acupuncture Treatments $165 (normally $195)
**3 Foot Reflexology or Massage Treatments $195 (normally $225)
These treatments must be purchased during the month of February but can be used anytime. If they are purchased on-line as a gift, the gift certificate will have a one year expiration date, meaning that you have to at least book your first appointment during that time to redeem the package. You can purchase treatment packages in office, over the phone by calling (503)445-8888 ext. 1 or on-line via my website by using the "Gift Certificate" link (even if you're purchasing it for yourself!). Treatment packages also make great Valentines day gifts for someone you love and want to help put their health first during the Year of the Tiger.
Fitness from a Chinese Medicine Perspective
A New Year often brings some common resolutions - eat better, lose weight, exercise more, be healthier - and Chinese medicine has ways to address and assist in all of these goals. Today, however, I wanted to share some bits about fitness from a Chinese Medicine perspective and leave you with some practical tips you can incorporate in to any health regime to help you improve your physical - and energetic - health. The muscles in particular are governed by the Earth element, specifically the Spleen, meaning that from a Chinese perspective, digestive health and abdominal strength are important contributing factors to overall muscular health. A strong core is also essential for supporting the spine and having a strong back, so including core strength exercises into any workout regime is important. Exercise and movement also move Qi in the body, improving energy flow and reducing blockages and stagnation. In this way, physical exercise has a direct effect on overall energetic health, especially when breath and movement are synchronized such as in Taiji, Qigong and Yoga. Lastly, in Chinese Medicine the Mind is also said to focus and direct the Spirit, so adding focused intention to any exercise or movement will also increase the effectiveness of, and energetic benefit from, your effort.
With these principles in mind, here are some Chinese Medicine-rooted ideas to make the most of your fitness regime:
- Engage the Triumvirate of Breath, Movement and Intention - This is just a reiteration of what's been mentioned above, but it bears repeating because its so important. While Qigong, Yoga and Taiji are classic examples of this combination, you can actually engage breath, movement and intention together in any action - from lifting weights to walking down the street - and it will improve both your energetic and physical well being. Try to time your breathe with your movement, focus solely on whatever activity you are pursuing and even bring the minds eye to the specific muscle groups you are working as you use them if you can. With regular practice, I guarantee you'll feel a difference in the results.
- Focus on the Core - Strengthening the abdominal muscles can strengthen not only your physical body, but your digestion (Spleen Qi) and your back health (related to Kidney Qi) as well. Instead of the typical crunch, try adding a pilates exercise or two - these are generally low impact and done laying down with a focus on bringing the belly to the spine and feeling a connection between the ribs and the hips thus deeply engaging the abdominals. If you don't know where to go or what to do, Exercisetv.tv has a long list of short abdominal workouts you can try for free in the comfort of your own home. Just picking 1-2 exercises from one of these workouts to add to your regular routine can go a long way to improving your strength and your Spleen and Kidney Qi!
- Massage the internal organs by scooping the abdominals - A key source of illness in Chinese Medicine is Qi stagnation and nowhere is that more detrimental to your day to day health than in the digestion. By doing this simple exercise several times a week you can engage the abdominal muscles for some physical toning while also massaging the interal organs. In Dr. Maoshing Ni's book "Secrets of Longevity" he calls this exercise "inner housecleaning."
- The Exercise: At least an hour after eating or any time before eating, start from standing and with your knees slightly bent. Lean forward and place the hands on the thighs just above the knee. Press down with your hands, exhale deeply and draw your stomach in and up as tightly as you can, effectively scooping out the abdomen. Holding your breath after this full exhalation, use your abdominal muscles to push and pull your belly in and out several times. Stand up as you inhale and repeat the whole exercise three times. By massaging the internal organs in this way, you will reduce stagnation and increase the strength of your abs and the health and clarity of your internal organs. You'll enjoy increased nutrient absorption and health over time. If this exercise sounds too obscure, try Wind Relieving Pose, a basic Hatha Yoga posture done lying down while bring the knees deeply to the chest one by one.
- Body Brushing to increase circulation Body Brushing is an interesting habit found among many centarians, and refers to using a dry brush with natural bristles to sweep the entire surface of the body. Again, this is typically done dry and you want to use circular motions and work from the extremeties up towards the heart. Brushing the skin in this way increases circulation in the skin capillaries which can combine to increase circulation overall while also exfoliating and improving skin health. It is also reputed to increase immunity and decrease instances of colds and flu's during the winter months. Best done in the morning before getting in the shower, its an invigorating way to start the day. If dry brushing isn't your cup of tea, scrubbing using exfoliating gloves or a loofah in the shower or bath can also create a similar effect.
Welcome new practitioners Summer, Ashley and Noreen!
We have a few new practitioners starting up in the Suite 103 office so please welcome them! Summer Knight, LMT and Ashley Mueller, LMT are our new LMT's and between them and Jamaica, we now have Deep Tissue, Swedish Massage, Foot Reflexology, Thai Massage and Integrative Bodywork available Monday-Saturday! Also we have Noreen Drake, LAc., who is excited to get her Acupuncture practice up and running on Mondays upcoming! Check back regularly to see when appointments are availble, or use the contact information below to schedule appointments or ask questions of them directly:
- Summer Knight, LMT. Appts available Wed-Thurs. Online Booking Available! (503)445-8888 ext.3 or (503)449-4099
- Ashley Mueller, LMT. Appts available Mon-Tues-Fri-Sat. Online Booking Coming Soon! (503)476-6676
- Noreen Drake, LAc., LMT. Appts will be available Monday starting in March. Online Booking Coming Soon!
Thanks for tuning in!
Thanks again for tuning in and I hope you'll take advantage of my Chinese New Year and Valentines Day 3 treatment special. Remember that 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.
Welcome to the Year of the Tiger,
~Rebecca
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
QiMail Newsletter December '09
In This Issue:
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.
----
Want to sign up for QiMail newsletter to come directly to your inbox? Click HERE and sign up!
- 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.
----
Want to sign up for QiMail newsletter to come directly to your inbox? Click HERE and sign up!
Friday, December 4, 2009
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
---------------------
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
**Happy Holidays from All Ways Well
**Shop locally this holiday season, the 3/50 project
**Rebecca's Holiday Hours
---------------------
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
Thursday, November 5, 2009
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.
---------------------
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
**H1N1 - Tips to avoid it.
**Listen to relaxation info online through iTunes U
**Holidays are coming! Be sure to take care.
---------------------
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
Thursday, October 8, 2009
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!
---------------------
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
**Rebecca is all better! Thanks for your support
**Treating Fibromyalgia Naturally - great recommendations from Bob Flaws
**Appointments available! Get them while they're hot!
---------------------
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!
---------------------
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
**September 3 Treatment Special - celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival!
**AHA Warning about Sugar
**Acupuncture Treatment for Sugar/Food Cravings - a great option!
---------------------
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
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